Binghamton Solidarity for Palestine held its first music fundraiser, bringing together local DIY, punk, rock and metal bands to support a family in Gaza.

The show raised money for the family of Maysara, a Palestinian father in Gaza who has lost several family members. According to BSP, the family is “experiencing forced starvation” by the Israeli Defense Forces. Maysara’s grandfather suffers from chronic health issues and requires medication with limited access. He regularly travels for food, which often results in being fired upon by soldiers, according to a pamphlet given at the event.

A noncampus organization composed of students and locals, BSP fights for divestment from Israel at Binghamton University and promotes awareness and education regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. At the show, attendees discussed the organization and picked up literature on Gaza, the West Bank, Cuba and Western propaganda while enjoying live music.

Raven Celtys, a Binghamton resident and musician who regularly organizes events, expressed how shows can foster community and connection. She said she was previously involved in another fundraising show that provided financial support to other civilians in Gaza.

“We did it for a war victim in Gaza,” Celtys said. “And we ended up raising a little over $1000 and they found someone who started funding them through that event, through getting the traction it needed.”

Friday’s lineup included local bands Green Creeks, the shackz, Stone Dead and Odins Gate. T, a core organizer for BSP and BU Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine, explained the importance of music, specifically punk, and how it relates to the organization’s advocacy goals.

“It’s been historically very political,” T said. “I want people to stop separating music from politics. It’s always been very present in a lot of punk songs, and we hope to raise awareness and show people ways that they can get involved despite their background. If they’re more musical or artistic, they still have a place in the movement for free Palestine.”

While the event was similar to a typical band show, performers often took the time to discuss current social and political issues related to Gaza, ICE and the Trump Administration.

Kurt King, the vocalist and bassist for Stone Dead, a Heavy Metal band from Binghamton, began a “Fuck ICE” chant during the group’s set, with audience members joining in. The band played both original music, such as their singles “MAD,” “Slow Suicide” and “Don’t Pray for Me,” and popular metal tunes like “Seek & Destroy” by Metallica.

“I hope people take away that there are millions suffering in Palestine, that they need a voice,” Samuel Richardson, vocalist and guitarist for the shackz, a two-piece grungegaze band, said. “I hope that they donate and help support the cause, and I hope they take away that also Binghamton has a nice, thriving music scene. More people need to also open their ears and come out to shows and enjoy live music.”

BSP aims to promote its mission to new crowds through various events that center Palestinian narratives — whether it’s a music show or religious events, such as its Easter in Palestine celebration planned for March 29 at the Saint Francis of Assisi church.

Pyrrha Waters, member of BSP and a senior majoring in mechanical engineering, explained that the Easter event will highlight the connection between Jesus, Christianity and the Palestinian territories. The organization will also collaborate with the local Irish community in the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day parade later this month.

“History is just repeating itself,” King said. “So I think it’s just important that people speak up, use their platform for good — doesn’t matter what you do. Us being out here tonight with everybody was absolutely incredible. This was a demonstration of people coming together as a community, because everybody here has compassion and empathy toward what’s going on overseas. It’s really sad, but I think that if enough people come together, we could make a change.”