Clann Bhríde condemns in the strongest terms possible the genocide in Gaza as performed by the IDF. Genocide is not a term to be used lightly, but indeed it is what is happening to the Palestinian people. It is unconscionable to consistently kill civilians through direct violence, such as bombing hospitals and other medical centers. It is equally heinous to kill via engineered famines and destroying convoys bringing aid to civilians. 

Why should this matter in a devotional group? Because our Lady shows us again and again that we must veer toward justice with our voices, actions, and beliefs. St. Brigit of Kildare and her abbesses were known “to turn back the streams of war.” In the Second Battle of Mag Tuired, Brighid works to secure peace between warring factions; when She fails, she is driven to great grief and lamentation. Finally, the three Brigits of Ulster – particularly Brig Ambue, who protects “the cowless ones” without legal standing or the means to sustain themselves – urge us to not only make right judgments, but to fervently call out injustice where it takes place. 

We believe every human being deserves peace, safety, and a life without fear. We stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and add our voices to the international call for immediate ceasefire. We commit to challenging Islamophobia and antisemitism where they arise and to reject all forms of nationalism and supremacy.