On Saturday, August 2nd, Kilkenny bore witness to one of its most powerful and emotionally charged public demonstrations in recent memory. Nearly 2,000 people gathered for the “March for Palestine,” organised by the Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group (KCPSG). The demonstration united people from Kilkenny and surrounding counties in a peaceful but determined stand against the violence unfolding in Gaza.
The march began at 1 p.m. at the Castle Gate, where a striking mix of Palestinian, Irish, and Kilkenny flags filled the sky. From young children to elderly citizens, entire families, individuals, and community groups assembled in solidarity. For many, this was their first protest, a powerful testament to the widespread grief and outrage felt across the region.
As the procession moved down the Parade, a hush fell among spectators. At the front, flag bearers moved solemnly to the beat of a single drum. One of the most moving moments came as four women carried white-shrouded bundles symbolising the innocent children killed in Gaza. Behind them, four men bore a small white coffin, a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the lives lost. The image brought many to tears.
Marchers held banners from KCPSG and solidarity groups from Carlow and Laois, with messages like “Stop the Genocide,” “End the Occupation,” and “Stop the Bombing.” Homemade placards carried personal appeals: “Stop killing children like me,” and “Our Government is Complicit with Genocide.” The raw emotion displayed highlighted the deep sense of injustice felt by many.
Support came from a broad coalition of community and national organisations. Members of the Irish Travellers Movement, the SIPTU trade union, and Kilkenny Pride joined the march. Rainbow flags waved alongside the Palestinian ones. Religious communities were also strongly represented—Father Tom Jordan of the Black Abbey Dominicans marched in his white habit, joined by members of several local parishes and religious orders.
Political figures from across the spectrum participated. Sinn Féin TD Natasha Newsome Drennan marched shoulder to shoulder with Green Party Senator Malcolm Noonan, Councillor Maria Dollard, and Councillor Adrienne Wallace from People Before Profit. Labour Councillor Seán Ó hArgáin, a long-time supporter of KCPSG vigils, sent a message of support. The turnout was so vast and diverse that listing every participant was impossible.
As the crowd moved through High Street, Bateman Quay, and Rose Inn Street, chants filled the air: “Stop the Bombing,” “Let Food and Water In,” “End the Occupation,” and “Freedom for Palestine – From the River to the Sea.” Some bystanders, visibly moved by the scene, spontaneously joined the march.
Back at the Parade, the event concluded with speeches and performances. KCPSG Chair Kevin Shore, also a member of People Before Profit, condemned the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in Gaza, especially for pregnant women. He urged the Irish government to pass the Occupied Territories Bill and enforce an arms embargo on Israel. “There is nothing antisemitic about opposing genocide,” he said.
Wesam Akram of KCPSG criticised the government’s failure to prevent arms shipments to Israel through Shannon Airport. Emotional poetry readings from Enya Kennedy and Martin O’Neill of the Social Democrats addressed themes of grief, resistance, and justice.
KCPSG Secretary Katharine Larkin encouraged the crowd to stay engaged. “We are part of a global movement. Everyone must do something, no matter how small,” she said, inviting attendees to the weekly Wednesday vigils held at the Parade from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m.
The weekend concluded with a “Gig for Gaza” at the Set Theatre on Sunday. Hosted by KCPSG and Kilkenny Indie Collective, it featured artists like Ned Byrne, Jack Keeshan, Elise, and The Accidental Rapper, raising vital funds for UNRWA and humanitarian relief in Palestine.
