70-mile March Against Genocide to commence today, culminating in Lansing rally

GRAND RAPIDS — Palestine Solidarity Grand Rapids will stage its 70-mile March Against Genocide from Grand Rapids to Lansing today through Monday. 

The event aims to raise awareness of the effects of genocide, along with raising money for Playgrounds for Palestine, which donates playground equipment to Palestinian children, and HEAL Palestine, which provides support for critically injured children in Gaza. 

“As community-minded people, we believe in international solidarity with the people of Palestine, and demand that our tax dollars cease funding this brutal and inhumane occupation,” according to the Palestine Solidarity GR’s website. 

The group is still looking for volunteers and taking donations, which can be dropped off at Room 102, 24 Fountain St., Grand Rapids, Room 102. They are also seeking drivers, hot meals and accommodations. 

Schedule of events 

Day 1: Thursday, June 26

18 miles to Lowell

• 7 a.m.: Arrive at Fountain Street Church for a rally, press conference, and sendoff.
• 8 a.m.: Begin walking to first destination in Lowell.
• 6:30 p.m.: Educational event at Lowell UCC, 865 Lincoln Lake Ave. SE, Lowell.

Day 2: Friday, June 27

15 miles to Ionia

• 8 a.m.: Begin walking to the second destination in Ionia.
• Evening: Potential educational event and potluck.

Day 3: Saturday, June 28

15 miles to Portland

• 8 a.m.: Begin walking to the third destination in Portland.
• Evening: Potential educational event and potluck.

Day 4: Sunday, June 29

14 miles to Grand Ledge

• 8 a.m.: Begin walking to the fourth destination in Grand Ledge. 
• Evening: Educational event and potluck.

Day 5: Monday, June 30

10 miles to Lansing

• 8 a.m.: Begin walking to the fifth destination, the capitol building in Lansing.
• 5:30 p.m.: Arrive at the capitol building for a rally and press conference.

To sign up for the walk or to volunteer/donate, visit the group’s website. 

— Contact reporter Mallory Burt at mburt@ottawanewsnetwork.org.