Their weekly vigils, uninterrupted since fall 2023, began after Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people and led to more than 250 hostages. Israel’s subsequent campaign has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives, according to Gaza health authorities.
“We want the ongoing genocide in Palestine to stop,” said one protester, declining to give his name. “Our tax dollars shouldn’t fund weapons that kill Palestinian children.”
He linked Palestinian liberation to Black Lives Matter and immigration reform, arguing the causes share goals of justice and freedom.
“I just want Palestinians to walk freely in Palestine,” he added. “No checkpoints, no fear—children should simply play.”
Sara, a Pasadena native who recently returned after five years in San Diego, said the demonstrations have become personal. Initially challenged by relatives, she noticed opinions shift.
“On Father’s Day there was a complete change,” she recalled. “Only my brother-in-law pushed back; everyone else agreed.”
Michael, another regular, framed the issue in terms of U.S. responsibility.
“We’re the largest country in the world,” he said.
“We use taxpayer money to make bombs that fall on innocent people.” He and Sara urged residents to study the region’s history, Zionism and Palestinian displacement.
Though attendance fluctuates, honks from passing motorists encouraged the group.
“We’re ambassadors for Palestine,” Michael said.
Sara believes Israel’s position is unsustainable but expects gradual change.
“We’re probably the most propagandized country in the world, so it’ll take time,” she noted.
As the conflict nears its second year, the Lake Avenue protest continues, a small but persistent call for cease-fire and human rights.
Get our daily Pasadena newspaper in your email box. Free.
Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m.
