Activists Raise Palestinian Flags in Protest During Netta’s EuroPride Performance

Sep 8 2023

In a powerful display of solidarity with Palestine, activists from Moviment Graffit made a significant statement during the Malta EuroPride opening concert. The controversial Israeli singer, Netta Barzilai, who won the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest, found herself at the centre of a symbolic protest as activists waved Palestinian flags and held placards condemning what they call “pinkwashing” of Israeli apartheid and occupation.

Netta Barzilai’s support for Israeli initiatives abroad and her involvement in events celebrating the banishment of Palestinians from their homeland has drawn sharp criticism. She has even been quoted as suggesting that Israel’s negative international reputation is merely a result of “bad PR” rather than its policies of oppression.

Moviment Graffit’s symbolic action serves as a poignant reminder that the Israeli state’s attempts to downplay its oppression of the Palestinian people on the global stage will not go unnoticed or unchallenged. Millions worldwide continue to stand in solidarity with Palestine and are committed to holding Israel accountable for its colonisation of Palestinian land and the suffering endured by the Palestinian people.

Last month, five Maltese organisations, including pioneers of Pride events in Malta, called for Netta Barzilai’s invitation to be revoked. They emphasised the glaring contradiction between EuroPride’s mission to celebrate love and equality and the inclusion of individuals associated with the Israeli apartheid state, accused of racism, killings, and ethnic cleansing. Regrettably, their request was ignored by the event organizers.

Netta Barzilai has also become a target of the “Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions” (BDS) campaign endorsed by Palestinian civil society. Similar to how international boycotts and sanctions played a pivotal role in ending the Apartheid regime in South Africa, Palestinians are calling upon the world to exert pressure on the Israeli Apartheid state by boycotting and sanctioning those complicit in its actions.

#MaltaDaily

A Faster Charging Experience on the Horizon

Sep 8 2023

Anticipation is building in the tech world for Apple’s annual fall product launch.

While the tech giant remains tight-lipped about what they have in store, rumours are swirling, and one exciting possibility has captured the attention of enthusiasts: faster charging for the next generation of iPhones.

According to reputable tech blog 9to5Mac, which has earned its stripes by accurately predicting previous Apple announcements, the upcoming iPhone 15 is expected to bring a game-changing upgrade to the charging experience. The whispers suggest that Apple will be ditching its proprietary Lightning charging port in favour of the more universal USB-C connection.

This shift has been long-awaited by users who have been yearning for greater compatibility with a wider range of devices and accessories.

Experts also claim that select models of the iPhone 15 will offer faster charging speeds. This shift is aimed at addressing one of the modern smartphone user’s greatest challenges: the race against time to keep their device powered up and ready for action.

Currently, the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max advise against using chargers exceeding 27 watts, while iPhone 14 users are recommended to stick to 20-watt chargers. But Apple’s potential leap to a 35-watt charger with the iPhone 15 hints at a significant leap forward in charging capabilities. Imagine the convenience of fully powering up an iPhone 15 in record time, thanks to the advanced technology that Apple is rumoured to be integrating.

While the iPhone 15’s 35-watt charging capability sounds impressive, some might point out that it still falls short compared to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Series, which boasts the capability of “super-fast charging” with 45-watt chargers. The tech world is a competitive arena, and this development might raise eyebrows for those who crave the fastest charging speeds available.

#MaltaDaily

EuroPride Valletta 2023 Kicks Off!

Sep 8 2023

In a burst of color and celebration, EuroPride Valletta 2023 officially commenced on Thursday night at Ta’ Qali, Malta.

Thousands of people, draped in vibrant attire and brandishing rainbow flags, flocked to the heart of this picturesque Mediterranean island to mark the inauguration of Europe’s largest LGBTIQ+ festival.

The Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) served as the grand stage for this momentous occasion, where attendees were treated to a night filled with music, dance, speeches from influential figures, and a palpable sense of unity.

The event was masterfully hosted by the dynamic trio of Olivia Lilith, Ron Briffa, and Ray Calleja, who set the stage for an evening of electrifying performances and heartfelt messages of love and acceptance.

The festivities commenced with a musical extravaganza featuring three of Malta’s most beloved singers: Jasmine, Amber, and Glen Vella. Against a backdrop of dazzling visuals, strobe lights, and pyrotechnics, these talented artists took the stage, filling the air with melodic tunes. Their renditions of iconic songs like “Free,” “Freedom! ’90,” “True Colors,” and a touching Maltese version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” left the audience spellbound.

As the night progressed, anticipation reached a fever pitch as Eurovision sensation and Israeli superstar, Netta Barzilai, graced the stage. With her trademark charisma and unique musical style, she brought the crowd to their feet. However, it’s worth noting that her appearance was not without a moment of political expression, as chants of “free Palestine” filled the air upon her entrance.

Netta’s performance served as a fitting conclusion to a night of celebration, where the LGBTQ+ community and their allies came together to champion love, acceptance, and the importance of embracing diversity.

Beyond the captivating performances, EuroPride Valletta 2023 was also marked by inspirational speeches from prominent politicians and local cultural icons.

They emphasised the importance of continuing the fight for equality, inclusion, and human rights for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.

#MaltaDaily

Victory Day in Malta: A Celebration of Resilience and Heritage

Sep 8 2023

This public holiday not only commemorates the end of three significant sieges in Maltese history but also coincides with the celebration of the Nativity of Mary, locally known as “il-Vitorja” (the Victory) and “il-Bambina” (the Baby). This unique blend of historical remembrance and religious festivity makes the day a remarkable and deeply cherished occasion in the hearts of Maltese and Gozitans.

Victory Day in Malta is a testament to the island’s resilience in the face of adversity. It marks the conclusion of three pivotal sieges: The Great Siege of 1565, The Siege of Valletta in 1800, The Siege of Malta during World War II.

Cultural activities commence on September 7th in Great Siege Square, Valletta, featuring literary readings, music, and artistic performances. On the day itself, the Armed Forces of Malta parade through Valletta, culminating at the Co-Cathedral of St. John. Here, they salute the Prime Minister, and the national anthem resonates through the city. A special mass is held for the highest-ranking officers within the same temple. The President honours the victims of World War II by placing a symbolic garland at the foot of the Great Siege monument.

The highlight of Victory Day is undoubtedly the traditional regatta. The Grand Harbour comes alive with competing boat societies from Cospicua, Vittoriosa, Birzebbuga, Marsa, Marsamxett, Kalkara, and Isla. Boat races, divided into categories, captivate spectators, and showcase Malta’s maritime prowess.

In Gozo, a commemorative ceremony takes place in Independence Square in Rabat, presided over by the Minister for Gozo. The Armed Forces of Malta participate in a parade and lay a wreath at the War Memorial dedicated to Christ the King of Jews.

Moreover, the Nativity of Mary is celebrated with fervour in the villages of Xagħra, Naxxar, Senglea, and Mellieħa, adding a spiritual dimension to the day’s festivities.

#MaltaDaily