What inspired a diverse group of young people to come together to hold a series of pro-Palestine events and protests?

The group have been at the forefront of a number of demonstrations in the town centre and across Lancashire throughout the winter months.

Whilst numbers have fluctuated, the group said they were determined to create more awareness of the plight facing civilians living in Gaza amid fighting between Hamas terrorists and Israeli defence forces.

In recent weeks the group have campaigned outside Barclays Bank in Darwen Street and also the BBC Lancashire studios to highlight the number of journalists killed since October 7.

But their focus they said was also to highlight the ongoing 'occupation of land' in the region by teaming up with the the Friends of Al Aqsa (FOA). 

The FOA is an international organisation which aims to 'make a difference in the struggle for Palestinian rights'.

The UK-based non-governmental organisation (NGO) advocates for the 'political rights of Palestine', and has been at the forefront of campaigning for Palestine for more than 27 years. 

Yasin Chopdat, who is part of the local group, said: "We were moved by a strong bond to justice and the group was formed through a series of meetings, events, and actions.

"We hope to raise local awareness and support national FOA efforts. 

"The FOA engages in impactful initiatives like BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) campaigns, engaging politicians, education, civil society mobilisation, and student activism."

Influenced by FOA's focus on taking part in politics and speaking out, the Blackburn group said they have also been speaking to politicians in the hope of bringing about change. 

Lancashire Telegraph: A demonstration was held outside the BBC Radio Lancashire offices in Blackburn to remember the

Yasin said in Blackburn more and more people were joining in and stepping forward to volunteer.

He said: "From young activists to older campaigners, this mixed team is joined by a shared aim – to stand up for justice and freedom.  

"The team is making plans for several events, like educational talks, and support protests in Blackburn.

"Together, we can build a better future for Palestine and for all those who believe in justice and human rights."

Fighting has been ongoing in Gaza since Hamas' terrorists attack in Israel on October 7, when more than 1,000 Israeli civilians were murdered and hundreds more taken hostage.

This triggered a bombardment and invasion of Gaza by Israel, which it said has been targeted at Hamas strongholds, however tens of thousands of innocent Palestinians, including many children, have been killed in the blasts.

International calls for a ceasefire or pauses in fighting have been growing since the fighting began, with negotiations over a ceasefire getting closer to an agreement.

In recent days, fears of a famine in Gaza have grown if more aid is not able to reach displaced people in the Palestinian enclave.