Numerous residents of Oñati gathered this morning in Foruen enparantza (Fueros Square) for an event of solidarity with Palestine, called by the local platform. The procession, accompanied by trikitixa musicians and featuring Palestinian flags, t-shirts, and scarves, proceeded to Kalegoien to mark the 78th anniversary of the Nakba (Arabic for catastrophe).
In Kalegoien, platform members recalled that May 15th marked the anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel and the beginning of the Palestinian exodus. They denounced that "wars, occupations, ethnic cleansing, and genocides continue," emphasizing the necessity of a "collective response" to these ongoing issues.
Today, wars, occupations, ethnic cleansing, and genocides continue; we are becoming accustomed to witnessing them, and a collective response is necessary.
Following this, attendees enjoyed a poetry recital by Itziar Ugarte, and a booklet was distributed containing poems by Ugarte and several Palestinian poets, featuring cover art by Pernan Goñi.
The event's highlight was the planting of an olive tree, a symbol of Palestine, and the unveiling of a plaque reading "Palestine Garden" in both Basque and Arabic. The public responded with applause, songs, and chants of "Free Palestine." Organizers stated that with this designation, "Oñati will now have a small piece of Palestine" to remember the ongoing oppression faced by the people.
A Palestinian resident living in Oñati expressed gratitude to the organizers, noting the "great significance" of the actions taken.
Separately, regarding the incidents at Loiu Airport yesterday during the reception for six Basque participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, platform member Jon Garate and mayor Izaro Elorza criticized the conduct of the Ertzaintza (Basque Police), deeming it "incomprehensible and painful." Bingen Zupiria, the Basque Government's Security counselor, has taken responsibility and stated that the events will be investigated.
