Rally in support of a ceasefire in Gaza.
A few thousands people gathered on the steps of the main NYPL library and marched to the NY Times building.
I shot photos and video for the @nypost
reporter Dana Kennedy interviewed some young people on the influence of social media and independent journalism.
I stayed longer and interviewed some other people, also older.
Many demonstrators were wearing masks on their mouths, as extremely concerned to reveal their full faces and names, for fear of retribution.
It is the first time I see at an anti war or any kind of rally where people are afraid of being identified.
Many Palestinian supporters have been exposed on websites, on digital billboards. Some have lost their jobs, received threats.
No matter where you stand, political and ideological expression should not be undermined or intimidated.
The protest was mostly peaceful. A saw some Palestinan supporter tearing down some poster of the hostages, and a man calling young demonstrators "terrorists". I was impressed by the openness of a young orthodox Jewish woman who, even if in disagreement, she hoped for a peace and supported the freedom to protest.
An older black woman was so passionate about the issue, close to tears.
It was really a multicultural experience. I met people from Yemen, Guatemala, India, Bangladesh, Portugal, Jews, Muslims, students, professors, shop owners.
Hamas and Netanyahu for years have rejected a realistic 2 state solution. Their grab and hold for power has came at the cost of death and destruction for the people they represent.
Hamas killed many progressive, liberal Israelis, whose families now may embrace a hawkish stance.
The widespread bombing of Gaza will likely increase resentment and hatred for a generation towards Israel among the Arab world.
#hamasnetanyahu
#netanyahuhamas #doxxing #freedomofspeech #facecovering
#palestinerally #ceasefire #natureikarta #nkusa #protest #palestinesupport #nypl #nytimes #freepalestine #nowar