The NSW Police have today indicated their intention to meet with Families for Palestine, a move the group fear may result in a Move On Direction. The direct action group has been holding an around-the-clock peaceful picket line outside of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Marrickville office for the past 10 days, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.
Greens MP and spokesperson for justice Sue Higginson said, “The peaceful protest led by Families For Palestine in support of the people for Gaza is a well-organised, respectful and dedicated community-led direct action which must be recognised, respected and facilitated.”
“People in this country have the right to demonstrate peacefully, to stand up for what is right, for peace and to call their Government to account on issues such as the atrocities taking place in Gaza”
“Police in this State have a track-record of maladministration when it comes to citizens exercising their democratic right to protest and public assembly. Just last year we saw a huge win with the Supreme Court ruling a number of NSW anti-protest laws unconstitutional. Since this ruling however, the Premier has still not properly responded about the future of the anti-protest laws.”
“The Families for Palestine picket-line represents a beacon of hope in action to both the Palestinian and wider Australian communities grieving for Gaza at this time. The organisers have had widespread support from the local community and have been clear in their organisation and directives: they are there to demonstrate peacefully, without disruption until a permanent and immediate ceasefire is called. The shut down of this peaceful sit-in by NSW Police would be a grave step in the wrong direction and one we implore the NSWPF not to take.”
