Jenny and I got off the train at 40th Street, armed with posters a, children and a little black box to lay them down. What a shock as we rounded the corner and saw that the plaza we and Jonothan had meticulously choreographed around, was gone! Three days ago, the Golda Meir Square was intact and ready to be occupied, and now piles of rubble amid heavy machinery remained, a minuscule version of what Gazans experience on a daily basis as their homes, schools, hospitals , shopping areas are destroyed around them. The noise of the machinery, the dust and dirt, along with a beginning sprinkle of rain, led to a quick decision to cancel/postpone. But Carol Husten had journeyed all the way from the Berkshires, and a goodly number of wonderful stalwarts arrived, not having received the message.
And so we decided, as it is the anniversary of the massacre, to go ahead in a small way, despite the exploded plaza. We assembled along the curb with a string of signage, and during a lull in the deafening drilling, we placed the small black casket on the ground and read some names of little ones murdered last summer during the deafening destruction of their homes and lives by the IDF. It seemed somehow appropriate. And the disappearance of Golda was not a disappointment. If only the Occupation could vanish as quickly.
As the destruction in Gaza lasted for 50 days,we will reschedule another day of mourning. We are looking for another suitable setting. If you have any ideas, let us know!
– Ann Shiriazi
for the Granny Peace Brigade
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In spite of the weather, rainy/humid, those who did not get the message in time of cancellation of the action planned at Golda Meir Plaza on Wednesday decided to go ahead with a modified action.
What was really surprising on arrival: There was no statue of Golda Meir, the entire Plaza was undergoing demolition! We, together with other Friends, held a silent vigil and a symbolic funeral with the representations of the children who died in Gaza, due to the murderous attacks of Israel last year. Ironic the background sounds were the demolitions underway.
There were several journalists at the event, Nydia and Alice gave interviews in Spanish and Ann was also interviewed.
Another action is being planned….the attacks by Israel on Gaza lasted for 50 days. So we will be back. And a big thanks to Ann and Jenny for the handouts and posters…appropriate for the day and setting.
– Marty Rajandran
for the Granny Peace Brigade
Granny Peace Brigade 