Thousands of peace-loving people took to the streets of Erasmia last Friday evening (Oct 17), as Al Ghazali College hosted its ‘Annual Neon Walk’ in support of the oppressed people of Palestine. This year’s walk, held in collaboration with Imaam Al Ghazali Global Relief, saw an estimated 7,000 supporters of Palestine in attendance, from near and afar, calling for a ‘free, free, Palestine’. Many attendees donned glowing neon accessories that lit up the streets, symbolizing hope amidst the darkness of injustice, with the walk itself led by the well-known Pretoria Muslim Youth Brigade (PMYB). Amongst the organizations that assisted in making the walk a success were; Darul Uloom Pretoria, the Holocaust Committee and the dedicated staff and students of Al Ghazali College. After the long walk, attendees were spoiled for choice with a variety of delicious food on offer at the College grounds, which were lined with a variety stalls. Funds raised on the evening will be given to Imaam Al Ghazali Global Relief, to support the ongoing work of Dr Mustafa Barghouti and partners on the ground in Palestine, who are focusing on both emergency relief and long-term development.
A night of light and solidarity… Al Ghazali College’s ‘Annual Neon Walk’ for the rights of the oppressed people of Palestine
Under a sky glowing with neon lights and unwavering spirit, Al Ghazali College once again united the community for its Annual Neon Walk for the freedom of the oppressed Palestinian people, held in collaboration with Imaam Al Ghazali Global Relief, last Friday evening (Oct 17).
This year’s walk was nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the compassion, unity and deep-rooted solidarity that defines our community’s ongoing support for the people of Palestine.
From early evening, the Al Ghazali College grounds in Erasmia buzzed with excitement as thousands of participants gathered, dressed in bright neon colours, symbolising hope amidst darkness. The event was not only a show of support, but also a powerful call for justice and awareness, emphasising the importance of collective action and conscious resistance against oppression.
The evening began with vibrant performances from the school’s foundation phase learners, each presentation beautifully themed around Palestine — a poignant reminder of the resilience of its children. Stalls and vendors lined the grounds, offering food, crafts, and educational materials that highlighted the Palestinian struggle and encouraged active community involvement through boycott, divestment, and awareness efforts.
The Community with a Conscious Group played a pivotal role in this aspect, working tirelessly to educate attendees on the impact and importance of boycotting products and corporations complicit in oppression. Their efforts brought meaningful conversation and understanding to the event, inspiring attendees to take conscious action in their daily lives as part of the broader movement for justice. Numerous community organisations, activists, and youth groups joined forces in an inspiring display of shared purpose. Their collective effort turned the event into one of the most memorable and impactful solidarity gatherings in the region.
The walk itself commenced spectacularly, guided efficiently by the Pretoria Muslim Youth Brigade (PMYB), the Laudium Disaster Management Team, Darul Uloom Pretoria, the Holocaust Committee and the ever-committed students and staff of Al Ghazali College. Together, they ensured smooth coordination, safety, and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the march.
Mu’allim Kauthar, the event coordinator, noted that months of meticulous planning went into organising this large-scale initiative, involving numerous stakeholders and volunteers. The hard work truly paid off as the event saw an estimated 7,000 participants from near and afar, making it one of the largest solidarity marches in the area to date.
Beyond its symbolic importance, the Neon Walk served as a crucial fundraiser, channelling much-needed financial aid through Imaam Al Ghazali Global Relief, which continues to work closely with Dr. Mustafa Barghouti and other humanitarian partners in Palestine. The funds raised will contribute to ongoing relief and development projects, offering tangible support to those enduring the hardships of occupation and conflict.
The Principal, staff, board members and the entire Al Ghazali College community extend their heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers and supporters who made the event such a resounding success. Their collective dedication not only illuminated the streets of Erasmia, but also rekindled the flame of compassion and justice within every heart present.
As the glowing lights of the Neon Walk faded into the night, one message shone brighter than ever — our solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people remains steadfast. Let this not be a once-a-year expression, but a continuous commitment to advocacy, education, and conscious action. Together, as a united community, let us continue to walk for freedom, speak for justice, and stand with the oppressed, until every voice in Palestine is finally free. Shukran to all who made this event possible, including the Laudium Sun for coverage of the event. May our light continue to shine in the path of justice.
