Statement for Launch of 11th Israeli Apartheid Week 2015 by Children of Mandela, Kathrada, Sisulu, Dadoo, Naude, Chikane and Other South African Struggle Stalwarts

There is a growing momentum and tide within the world of culture for example, amongst well known sports people, celebrities, musicians, actors and comedians. From Selena Gomez to Mark Rufallo, Penelope Cruz, John Cusack, John Legend and other high profile celebrities all come out during Israel’s attacks on Gaza, using social media and other platforms, on the issue of Palestine. Some have tweeted #FreePalestine while others have gone further in slamming the Israeli attacks on Gaza as a “genocide”. And the number that have joined the boycott of Israel is growing on a daily basis.

The groundswell of support for the Palestinian struggle and BDS campaign, coming from all quarters of the academic and cultural community and even major corporations, in many ways is a result of the practical, strategic and goal-orientated boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) of Israel movement that is capturing the world by storm. BDS offers a non-violent route and path for us to channel our energies.

Continue reading at http://www.politicsweb.co.za/politicsweb/view/politicsweb/en/page71654?oid=992322&sn=Detail&pid=71616

TAKE ACTION now and write a letter to the UN Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide. Make sure to post a copy of the letter in our comments as well, so we can publish it.

Oscar Winners Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem Denounce Israeli ‘Genocide’ in Open Letter

Dozens of Spanish film stars, directors, musicians and writers, led by Oscar winners Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem and Pedro Almodovar, have denounced Israel’s incursion into Gaza.

In an open letter referenced by Europa Press and other Spanish media, they described Israel’s actions as “genocide.”

They also called on the European Union to “condemn the bombing by land, sea and air against the Palestinian civilian population in the Gaza Strip…”

The letter also said: “Gaza is living through horror these days, besieged and attacked by land, sea and air. Palestinians’ homes are being destroyed, they are being denied water, electricity [and] free movement to their hospitals, schools and fields while the international community does nothing.”

Others who signed the letter include directors Montxo Armendariz and Benito Zambrano; actors Lola Herrera, Eduardo Noriega and Rosa Maria Sarda; and musicians Amaral and Nacho Campillo.

Continue reading at http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/penelope-cruz-javier-bardem-denounce-721894

TAKE ACTION now and write a letter to the UN Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide. Make sure to post a copy of the letter in our comments as well, so we can publish it.