Alex youth organisation stands with Israel

A youth organisation in Alexandra that calls itself the Greater Alexandra Progressive Youth Forum (GAPYF) has declared that it stands by Israel in the ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza strip.

Led by its chairperson Patrick Baloyi, who told Alex News in an interview of a mass meeting in solidarity with Israel that will be held on November 25 at the First Park in Tsutsumani Village, starting from 10:00 till late, said the ‘Alex For Israel’ solidarity meeting will be held under the theme ‘Solidarity Has No Boundaries’.

Baloyi, a township-born and bred lad whose youth movement has been in existence for a couple of years, said, “I would like to proudly announce that we fully stand by Israel in the current conflict with Hamas.”
“Alex For Israel aims to combat the rise of Anti-Semitism in South Africa by educating the youth on current affairs as well as our past, in which the Jews played a pivotal role in our freedom and democracy and we strongly condemn intimidation, victimisation, and attacks on the Jewish community. Join us in fostering unity, understanding, and support,” Baloyi said.

He said the programme highlights on November 25 will include a symbolic gesture of unity with the Jewish community here and speakers will express thoughts on unity and solidarity with cultural performances that will showcase Alexandra’s rich diversity with interactive sessions and dialogues to foster understanding, culminating in a candlelight vigil in memory of those affected by violence.

“We invite all community members, leaders, and individuals committed to fostering unity to denounce violence and stand in solidarity with us to make a powerful statement,” Baloyi added.

Baloyi said the campaign was an initiative aimed at mobilising citizens, relevant governmental departments, the international community, and the media to come together and show support for Israel. “We strongly believe that unity and collaboration are the keys to resolving the ongoing conflict in the region.”

He said the campaign has three primary objectives; the release of hostages, advocacy for a ceasefire; and the promotion of dialogue and diplomacy towards the attainment of a two-state solution.

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