We had a delightful crossing from Lisbon, to the Atlantic through the Strait of Gibraltar. When approaching Vélez in Malaga a local fishing boat followed us to the harbour, it was such a powerful surprise as we did not expect it.
At the harbour, hundreds of people gathered together in support of the Flotilla. Lina Zdrul,i a participant from Canada, said: “Days at sea can be difficult and long. The fight for a Free Palestine at times feels long and without hope. But seeing this incredible welcome at Vélez Malaga, all of you are giving us the hope and energy we need, you’re the wind behind our sails that helps push us forward. Thank you for being here with us, for celebrating these efforts together while also opening the space for collective grief.”
A press conference was held where Fellipe Lopes, FFC Representative said: ‘’We saw how the European Union responded to the Russian attack on Ukraine. Protection and solidarity were the response of several European countries. But why are the same solidarity and respect not shown to the Palestinian people? Civil society expects concrete actions from the Spanish government that must reflect public opinion in its political actions.”
The local community in Periana invited those onboard Handala to visit their thousand-year-old tree as it had a historical and emotional connection with Palestine. Lina Zdruli, a participant from Canada, said: “You might not have all been to Palestine or know a Palestinian, but you do know the importance of an olive tree, and the flavor of those olives and oil shared around the dinner table. Even if people don’t share the same language or culture, you can all sit around the same table and appreciate the flavors you are tasting, and the effort those farmers, and the land, took into transforming a seed into food. We can always find the commonalities between us.”
Several organizations in Malaga organized a demonstration in support of the Palestinian people. A local flamenco composer sang three songs for Palestine, and Rana Hamida, a participant from Palestine, sang a song for everyone.
Angeles Cabría, a Spanish crew member onboard Handala, said: ‘’Arriving in Malaga and feeling the powerful support from the local community is really important for our mission and our journey. The local community can continue this work by boycotting Israel and endorsing BDS actions.”
Handala received the views of many people from Malaga and surrounding areas, which is very important for our campaign and action. Caoimhe Butterly FFC representative said: “One of the most powerful, and emotional, experiences of each port visit on Handala has been spending time & sharing reflections with the Palestinian diaspora. The duality of the grief and trauma, love and hope held by Palestinian activists and families, so many denied the Right of Return to their homeland, has been deeply poignant. We carry them onwards with us, in mind and heart, every step of this sea journey, until they achieve freedom, and can finally return, and reclaim Palestinian joy.”
Thank you very much. Next stop Dénia, our last port in Spain.
