Jewish Alliance: “Deep Concern” About Palestinian Flag Ceremony at Providence City Hall
GoLocalProv News Team
Jewish Alliance: “Deep Concern” About Palestinian Flag Ceremony at Providence City Hall
“The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island was recently made aware of the plan to display the Palestinian flag in the Providence City Council Chamber. We understand that this display is intended to commemorate Nakba Day—an unofficial observance marking what is referred to as the 'Palestinian Catastrophe' of 1948,” said Greenman in a statement to GoLocal.
“We have communicated our deep concern to the City Council regarding the use of a government space for a display that fosters division within our community," he added. "The Jewish Alliance remains unwavering in our commitment to the safety, security, and wellbeing of the people of Israel and Jewish communities around the world."
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On Wednesday, GoLocal unveiled that the Providence City Council is planning two ceremonies.
According to communications from the City Council office, both in an email to members of the City Council and in an email to GoLocal, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley approved the Palestinian flag being raised over Providence City Hall in a ceremony on Friday.
“Council President Miller received a request from the community to raise the Palestinian flag tomorrow, [SIC} Thursday, May 15. As we do for many countries, cultures, and celebrations throughout the year, the flag will be up for the day of the event. It will be taken down in the evening, and used for a flag raising from City Hall, approved by Mayor Smiley and the Dept. of Public Property, at 12 pm on Friday, May 16. All are welcome to attend,” wrote City Council’s new communications director, Marc Boyd.
Smiley wrote in an email to GoLocal, "At the request of the City Council and two constituents, the City is flying the Palestinian flag [over Providence City Hall]."
This story was first published 5/14/25 5:53 PM