"There were many such demonstrations called for around the world. But this one had the special character. It was held in front of Rockefeller Center where NYC puts its large Christmas tree.
Perhaps 2,000 people gathered on Sunday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m. and did not disperse until they had marched to the Israeli Consulate 10 blocks away and four hours later.
One bystander, a student from Florida with family in the West Bank, commented, "It is sad to have such a demonstration at this festive time of year. But what has happened in Gaza is very tragic. Not just the latest bombing but all of 2008 and 2009 now looks like it will be even much worse. The Israeli election will most likely bring no change for the better. That is what most Palestinian people feel. So they have fear. So instead of celebrating this time of year they have come here today to demonstrate. Now everyone around the world can see that even in NYC people are saddened and upset by the Israeli bombing of Gaza.""
