A BENEFIT gig held in Coventry has successfully raised more than £8,000 for Medical Aid for Palestinians, a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting the health and dignity of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
The ‘Gig for Gaza,’ – organised by Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana in collaboration with the West Midlands Fire Brigades Union – took place on Saturday, April 27, at the LTB Showrooms, a community arts space in the former Litten Tree pub in central Coventry.
The event featured music, poetry readings, and speeches, drawing more than 200 attendees and generating a confirmed total of £8,095.34 in donations.
West Midlands-based folk singer Jess Silk, singer-songwriter Grace Petrie, and two-time MOBO and Mercury Music award winner Soweto Kinch performed at the gig.
Local poet Loraine Masiya Mponela delivered a reading, and speeches were given by Zarah Sultana and FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack.
Zarah Sultana, who has now raised over £20,000 for various charities since becoming an MP, expressed her gratitude and highlighted the significance of the event.
“Coventry’s tradition as a city of peace and reconciliation was proudly on display at this Gig for Gaza, with an incredible £8,000 raised for Medical Aid for Palestinians.
“This money will go to provide vital medical equipment, emergency food, and humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza.”
Billy Holland, Fire Brigades Union West Midlands Regional Secretary, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity shown by fellow trade unionists and the wider public in support of a charity striving to limit suffering in Gaza.
“We’re proud that our members have been able to contribute in the best way we currently can, joining together with Zarah to get vital cash to Medical Aid for Palestinians, who are delivering aid and assistance right now on the ground.”
