The flag of Palestine has been raised in Rochdale on the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on 29 November 24.
The decision to raise the flag outside Rochdale Town Hall, alongside a flag of peace, was made following consideration of a request from a local resident with links to Gaza.
Ikram Alattar, a student at the University of Manchester, formed the Palestine Rochdale Community Group and was in Gaza with her family days before the Hamas attacks on 7 October 2023 prompted the latest hostilities in the region.
She said: “We are grateful for Rochdale’s tradition of inclusivity, as seen in past support for various communities. We believe that by raising the Palestinian flag, we can inspire unity and underscore our shared commitment to peace, harmony, and mutual respect. We also wanted a day of hope to recognise and reflect on the suffering of the people in Gaza.”
The United Nations Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is internationally recognised and has taken place since 1977.
The mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Shakil Ahmed, the chief executive of the council, Steve Rumbelow, Ikram and other community representatives attended the event.
In October 2023 the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the ten Greater Manchester councils, including Rochdale, joined international calls for a ceasefire.
In December 2023 Rochdale Borough Council voted to call for a permanent and multilateral ceasefire in Gaza, the cessation of the current hostilities, the release of all hostages, access to humanitarian aid and a lasting peace.
Rochdale council Mosques said in their statement
We are delighted to share the remarkable news that the Palestinian flag has been raised in Rochdale—a historic and deeply meaningful moment that stands as a tribute to the resilience of the Palestinian people and an affirmation of their identity.
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of Sister Ikraam Al-Attar, originally from Gaza, Palestine, and now a proud resident of Rochdale. Her passion, determination, and tireless efforts in engaging with the local authority and councillors across party lines have brought this monumental occasion to life.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to this quaint and courageous town for taking such a bold step and to those who set aside party affiliations to embrace the human side of this cause.
The Rochdale Council of Mosques (RCM) is humbled to have played its part in ensuring this process was carried out seamlessly, reflecting our unwavering commitment to advocating for the concerns of our community.
May this serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and the enduring hope for a just and lasting peace
