PCMA supports Smith College SJP Rally for Gaza and Free Speech

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Smith College students and community partners who protested the Israel-Hamas war last spring rallied again on Thursday, February 27, to urge divestment from genocide, to condemn “scholasticide” (the destruction of the education system) in Palestine, and to relax restrictions on free speech on campus.

The Smith College chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine and Demilitarize Western Massachusetts organized the rally, which featured speakers from various community organizers throughout the region. Pax Christi Massachusetts co-sponsored the event, along with Demilitarize Western Massachusetts, Western Massachusetts CODEPINK, River Valley DSA, Hampshire College SJP, Liyang Western Massachusetts, River Valley for Gaza Healthcare, Leahy Fast for Palestine, River Valley PSL, Western Massachusetts SURJ, Valley Families for Palestine, Massachusetts Peace Action (MAPA), and Western Massachusetts Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP).

Showing steadfast support in spite of the rain, Smith College SJP and community supporters rallied on campus Thursday, February 27, 2025. At right is Rev Dr. Peter Kakos, from First Churches Northampton Peace and Justice Committee. Dr. Kakos served as emcee and spoke for the First Churches Peace and Justice Committee.