Laois ‘Gig for Gaza’ surpasses target
The balloon display by Ní Darach Design which added colour and warmth to the powerful display of Palestinian flags and banners at the GIG for Gaza in the Anvil Inn Photos: Renata Metelicka
A COMBINATION of music, community spirit and heartfelt solidarity filled the Anvil Inn in Portarlington as hundreds turned out for a family-friendly music fundraiser Gig for Gaza in aid of the Palestine Aid Mobile Maternity Unit initiative.
The Gig for Gaza, was headed by Portarlington native Danielle Lawlor and raised nearly €4,000, with additional donations still coming to support the purchase and construction of a second mobile maternity unit for displaced mothers in Palestine.
The occasion acted not only a fundraising venture but also as a strong statement of international solidarity during a time of crisis.
The event attendees were treated to a stellar line-up of live music with performances by Half the Truth, Dopamine, Copper Brereton, Bailey, The Electrix and DJ Peter McEvoy.
The Anvil Inn was transformed into a vibrant, family-friendly space that featured face painting by LOL Face Painting and a stunning balloon display by Ní Darach Design, which added colour and warmth to the powerful display of Palestinian flags and banners provided by the Laois branch of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC).
In her address to the crowd, Ms Lawlor extended heartfelt thanks to the performers, volunteers, local businesses and every individual who attended and donated to the event.
She said the event “was about compassion in action. I’m deeply proud of our community for coming together to support mothers and babies facing unimaginable circumstances.’’ There were also a number of speakers that included Jane Hogan from the Laois IPSC, Ammar Salah (a Gazan voice), Carlow student and creator of the Kuffiya Soul brand and Tyrone's John Hurson of Palestine Aid.
Mr Hurson shared the uplifting news that the original fundraising goal had been surpassed, allowing for the purchase of a second mobile maternity unit to be fitted in Egypt and deployed to serve Palestinian mothers ‒ many of whom have no access to hospitals amid the ongoing genocide.
He said: “This second unit represents hope. Hope for women and babies in one of the most desperate humanitarian situations in our time.” Ms Lawlor said: “The night will be remembered not only for its incredible music and generous giving, but also as a resounding message of human connection and resistance against injustice.”
