Swindon families are coming together to create a powerful visual tribute to the children killed in the Israel-Gaza conflict later this month.
The peaceful installation, taking place outside Justin Tomlinson MP’s office, will display thousands of items of children’s clothing to represent the lives lost.
The event, open to the public on Saturday 11th May, is organised by a diverse group of local women who share a common goal: to raise awareness of the devastating impact of the conflict on children. With over 15,500 Palestinian and 36 Israeli children killed since October 7th, the organisers hope to convey the magnitude of the loss.
Theresa, a spokeswoman for the group, said, ‘We realise that it is almost impossible to visualise the number of child deaths in this conflict, so this memorial is about helping people get to grips with the scale of what is going on.
‘We also want to make it clear to Justin Tomlinson – who previously voted against a ceasefire – that just like 76%* of UK residents (*YouGov.co.uk), the vast majority of his constituents are calling for a meaningful ceasefire in Gaza and we need him to represent our voices.’
The installation will be placed at Tomlinson’s North Swindon office, Orbital Shopping Centre, from 10am-10pm, ending with a candlelit vigil. All clothes will be donated to charity after the event.
‘This will be a peaceful, family-friendly event, and we invite everyone to join us in reflection and solidarity,’ Theresa added. The group welcomes unwanted children’s clothing donations and encourages the community to participate in the cleanup on Sunday 12th May.
For more information or to volunteer, visit the Swindon Palestine Solidarity Facebook event or email clothesmemorial@icloud.com.
