The Party for the People and for Palestine, organised by Green Left, filled the Gumbramorra Hall at Addison Road Community Centre, in the inner-western Sydney suburb of Marrickville, on November 1.
More than 200 people gathered for over five hours of music, performances, poetry and dancing.
Co-organiser Rachel Evans described it as “a festival of cultural expression for the people and for Palestine”, raising funds for Green Left, Hebron Human Rights Defenders and Defence for Children International — Palestine.
The night started with songs by the Solidarity Choir, which has been performing at political and cultural events since the anti-Apartheid movement.
They were followed by a Welcome to Country and land acknowledgement by young Gomeroi warrior and poet William Jarrett, who performed three powerful poems.
A light show featuring photos of two years of Palestine solidarity rallies in Gadigal Country/Sydney, curated by photographer Zebedee Parkes and artist Jax North, provided the backdrop.
Stalls sold Palestinian cultural merchandise, and the fabulous 2025 Green Left Raffle was drawn — with prizes including family hampers, book and drink vouchers, artworks and more.
Throughout the night, the Red Rebels and Families for Palestine provided entertainment and face painting for kids, while DJs Florian, Gryff and Matthew kept the music pumping outdoors.
Mexican dance trio Mexidhalia blew the audience away with swooping dresses and exciting movement, and community organiser and musician Anastasia performed works from her first published book of poetry.
Palestinian musicians Seraj and Majdi Jelda — from Gaza — performed traditional music on the oud and riq. They performed at the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music before fleeing Israel’s bombardments 18 months ago.
To wrap up the night, DJ Izm, one part of chart-topping hip-hop group Bliss n Eso, and DJ Toks James, spun some tunes and got people onto the dancefloor.
The event was MC-ed by GL journalist Isaac Nellist and Latin American activist Paula Corvalan. Nellist said: “It was great to see so many people coming together for a good cause and to celebrate resistance and cultural expression.
“In addition to the incredible performers, there was a huge team of volunteers who helped keep the night running smoothly, and the delicious food prepared by the kitchen team was a highlight.
“GL has covered every Palestine rally in Gadigal Country/Sydney — the funds raised from this event will help us continue reporting on the Palestine solidarity movement, and countless other campaigns across the country.”
[Donate to Green Left’s 2025 Fighting Fund or become a monthly GL supporter here.]