Does the massive outpouring of support for the Palestinian people, demonstrated by the August 3 Sydney Harbour Bridge march and the August 24 National March for Palestine, mark a turning point?

They are a vindication of the campaign’s persistent hard work in defence of Palestinians’ basic human rights. They reflect the disgust and horror that most people feel when finally exposed to the reality of the genocide in Gaza.

But we still have a long way to go.

See also

The fact remains that Australia is still materially aiding and abetting the genocide through its bilateral military ties and other trade with Israel, and the Anthony Albanese government still shows no sign of budging on this.

For those that marched for the first time, we will have to convince them that they need to march again. In fact, the movement will have to grow and significantly intensify to force the federal government’s hand.

This means even the huge demonstrations are not enough. There needs to be a flourishing of activity in between the demonstrations that keep the issue boiling away in the national debate.

Whether film nights or direct actions, they all need to multiply. This will develop........

© Green Left Weekly