FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Garriga | [email protected]
Vigil and Rally to Honor Aaron Bushnell and Demand End to Gaza Genocide
May his memory be a revolution!
New York, NY – CODEPINK and other peace organizations in New York City will hold a vigil across from the UN to honor the memory of US Airforce member Aaron Bushnell and demand an end to israel’s genocide in Gaza. Aaron's poignant last words, "Free Palestine," echoed his unwavering commitment to justice and freedom during one of the bleakest chapters in history. The vigil aims to ensure that his sacrifice–his self-immolation to protest US support for Israel’s genocide– mobilizes the 193-members of the United Nations to embargo arms, oil and technology imports and exports to Israel.
“Aaron Bushnell gave his life so that America would hear his message: End the genocide. He kept calling 'Free Palestine' through intense, horrifying pain. He gave his life so people in Gaza might live. There’s no greater love than that. I feel sadness and awe for this human being,” said Ali Abunimah, founder of Electronic Intifada.
The lineup of distinguished speakers includes Najla Said, Farid Bitar, Jill Stein, Cornel West, Eugene Puryear, alongside clergy, NY-based Palestinian artists, and many more. Linda Sarsour, Debra Sweet, and Sally Jones will MC the event.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: March 15, 2024, from 4-7pm
- Location: Across from the US Mission to the United Nations, 799 United Nations Plaza (corner of 1st Ave and 45th Street)
The symbolic location was chosen to highlight the need for an immediate cessation of US funding, arming, and political support for Israel, which is committing genocide in Gaza and ethnic cleansing of Palestine.
The vigil is sponsored by CODEPINK, Veterans for Peace, Pal-Awda, Answer, Party for Socialism and Liberation, Palestinian Youth Movement, Mamas 4 a Free Palestine, Green Party USA, Green Party NY, and numerous others.
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