► Friends of Palestine

Our Mission

Promoting peace and justice in Palestine

Our History

The Friends of Palestine Society was set up two years ago, in the aftermath of the brutal war on Gaza. We were a group of students who wanted to demand justice for the people of the war-torn nation of Palestine. We had a burning question – how could the world stand by and tolerate so much suffering?

We were not alone. The Israeli Government’s increasing hostility towards Palestinians has met a resistance in the form of an international Palestine solidarity movement. The Friends of Palestine Society aims to be part of this movement, acting as a voice for the millions of Palestinians living under occupation who have been forced into silence.

We aim to present the facts which go unreported in the mainstream media, about the harsh reality of life for ordinary Palestinians, due to the countless human rights abuses which these people face on a day-to-day basis. The Friends of Palestine Society view our cause as a struggle against all types of racism and we believe that anti-Zionism is not the same as anti-Semitism.

Events

Our events on campus have included leaflet distribution, raising money for aid in Palestine and the screening of documentaries that expose the truth of the plight of Palestine. We have also organised several talks which have been held at the university, delivered by speakers from the PSC (Palestine Solidarity Campaign) and MAP (Medical Aid for Palestinians), and the author and activist Rich Wiles. In 2011-2012, we hope to continue holding events on campus and to arrange a trip to a national Palestine solidarity conference (with a big discount provided by the SU!).

Get Involved

We would like everyone to get involved with the Friends of Palestine Society, no matter how small a way this may be. But if you’re willing to put in the extra effort in helping to run the society, you could even achieve an SU STARS (Student Training and Recognition Scheme) certificate, which would be a great thing to add to your CV!

If you are interested in the Friends of Palestine Society and would like to keep in touch, then you can stay up to date by following our Facebook group , where we’ll post details of all our upcoming events. Or keep in touch by e-mailing our President, Afshan Mahmood, at info@fpshud-su.org.

We hope to see you soon!

Friends of Palestine at the Freshers' Activities Day 2011

Useful Websites

Palestine Solidarity Campaign

Boycott Israeli Goods

Jews for Justice for Palestinians

Cost for 2011/12 membership is £2