In protest against the ongoing genocide and Israeli war crimes backed by Western powers, Drik Picture Library organised a solidarity rally this morning at Rabindra Sarobar in Dhanmondi to commemorate the martyred Palestinian children.

The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 50,000, with 17,000 of the victims being children. In remembrance of these innocent lives, Drik staff expressed solidarity alongside the children from the organization "Shishuder Jonno Amra" (We for the Children).

The rally featured poetry by artist Farzana Wahid Shayan on Gaza's children and a speech by eminent photographer and Drik Picture Library founding Managing Director Shahidul Alam, highlighting the brutal reality of the ongoing atrocities.

"In the same way children are playing here at this amphitheater today, children everywhere in the world should have the same freedom to play," Shahidul Alam said in his speech. "We are meant to nurture them in such an environment. But Israeli aggression, war crimes, and genocide have shattered this reality."

He emphasised the importance of standing in solidarity with Palestine and continuing the struggle for their freedom. "People around the world are protesting from their respective positions. We must also keep supporting Palestine so that when our children ask us about our role in this crisis, we can face them with dignity," he added.

The rally was attended by Drik's friends, fellow activists, artists, photographers, and members of the public.