In a display of solidarity against the escalating tide of antisemitism, the streets of Paris were awash with over 100,000 demonstrators on Sunday.
This mass mobilization was a response to the alarming surge in antisemitic incidents, a disturbing trend that has coincided with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The march in Paris was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, representatives from a broad political spectrum, including left-wing parties, conservatives, centrists from President Emmanuel Macron’s party, and far-right leader Marine Le Pen.
Despite stringent security measures, the march attracted a vast crowd, with the Paris police estimating the number of participants at a staggering 105,000.
The march was convened by the leaders of the Senate and the National Assembly in response to a worrying increase in anti-Jewish acts in France since the commencement of Israel’s war against Hamas.
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Relatives of some of the 40 French citizens who lost their lives in the initial Hamas attack, as well as those missing or held hostage, also participated in the march.
The march was not merely a protest against antisemitism but also a clarion call for unity and peace. As eloquently expressed by one of the marchers, Laura Cohen, “We shouldn’t have to hide in 2023”.
This march served as a potent symbol against hate and violence and a rallying cry for unity and peace. It underscored the shared responsibility in the fight against antisemitism and the crucial role each citizen plays in fostering tolerance and understanding.