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Defending human rights is vital. So is supporting justice for those denied it.
Targeting Australian Palestinian Rights Activists
On May 1, Palestine solidarity goes on trial. Nineteen Melbourne, Australia activists were targeted for nonviolently protesting last July for Palestinian rights.
Outside a Max Brenner (MB) chocolateria store, police attacked them violently. The Israeli conglomerate Strauss Group owns MB. It supports militantly occupying Palestine.
Activists are charged with besetting (meaning to surround a building) and trespass. Some face additional charges, including "riotous manner," resisting and/or hindering arrest.
Their protest was one of several the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid organized. It's part of the global boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaign.
The case involves speech, public solidarity, and right to protest peacefully in a free society. Expressing Palestinian, anti-imperial, and social justice support publicly risks retaliation in many Western countries and elsewhere.
Police violence, arrests, and false accusations follow. Melbourne protesters were brutalized. One woman had her shoulder dislocated. Another said:
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