Hundreds of people marched through the streets of Manhattan, New York, on Friday to mark the 78th anniversary of the Nakba. The demonstration was organized by a group called Within Our Lifetime. The event coincided with a new proposal introduced by U.S. Congress member Rashida Tlaib calling for recognition of Palestinian refugees’ rights.

Participants at the rally described the Nakba as a continuing tragedy comparable to the Holocaust and called for global recognition of its history. They demanded an end to what they termed genocide and occupation in Palestine, urging the return of displaced Palestinians and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Demonstrators expressed solidarity with Palestinians and vowed to continue their advocacy until freedom is achieved within their lifetime.

The Nakba Day commemorates events beginning on May 15, 1948, following Israel’s declaration of independence the previous day, when many Arabs were expelled or fled from the area. The day is marked annually by protests and heightened tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.