American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) and their affiliate 501(c)(4) Americans for Justice in Palestine (AJP), recently observed the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, a significant event in Palestinian history. The Nakba, which means “catastrophe” in Arabic, refers to the forced displacement and dispossession of Palestinians during the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. AMP organized various events to commemorate this anniversary. They shed light on the ongoing struggle of the Palestinian people and advocating for justice and self-determination. Let’s delve into the events organized by AMP and AJP to honor the Nakba and amplify the Palestinian narrative.
Nakba 75 Event in the Capitol
One of the prominent events organized by Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP) to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Nakba was the Nakba 75 Event held in the Capitol. The event aimed to bring together activists, community members, and supporters. Their goal was to raise awareness about the Nakba and its enduring impact on Palestinian lives. Attendees had the opportunity to listen to speakers, engage in discussions, and participate in workshops. They focused on understanding the historical context of the Nakba and its ramifications in the present day. The event fostered an environment of education, solidarity, and collective action.
According to Ayah Ziyadeh, who was a lead organizer the Nakba 75 event at the Capitol, the program commenced with a moving reading of Mahmoud Darwish’s renowned poem “On This Land,”. It encapsulated the Palestinian struggle for identity, freedom, and homeland. Noura Erakat, a human rights attorney and associate professor at Rutgers University, emphasized the significance of discussing the Nakba within these institutions to bring an end to ongoing injustices.
Survivors of the Nakba shared their heart-wrenching personal stories. This included Dr. Abed Musa, who recounted the traumatic experiences of being exiled from his village at the age of eight. Congresswoman Tlaib honored the Nakba survivors with a historic resolution. She stressed that the Nakba remains an ongoing tragedy with little recognition or accountability for the violence and displacement suffered by Palestinians. This also included Americans targeted and discriminated against. The event served as a poignant reminder that the Nakba is an unresolved chapter in history.
Nakba 75 Rally in DC: Uniting for Palestine’s Right of Return
Another significant initiative undertaken by AMP was the Nakba 75 Rally in DC. This rally served as a platform to raise awareness about the Nakba. It also highlighted the various events happening across the country to commemorate this historical milestone. The rally aimed to mobilize support for Palestinian rights, and urging attendees to take action. They also aimed to engage with local communities, and promote justice and equality. By amplifying the Nakba events happening nationwide, AMP sought to create a united front in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Nakba 75 Webinar: Understanding the Historical Significance and Ongoing Struggle
Furthermore, AMP organized a Nakba 75 Webinar, which provided a virtual space for individuals to come together and learn about the Nakba and its significance. The webinar featured expert speakers who shared insights. Moreover, they emphasized the historical, political, and humanitarian dimensions of the Nakba. Through informative presentations, personal testimonies, and interactive discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. They focused on the importance of addressing their plight on a global scale. The webinar facilitated meaningful dialogue in this grassroots movement, and encouraged participants to become advocates for justice and change.
Reference to their Nakba statement: American Muslims for Palestine’s Strong Stance on Nakba 75 and Palestinian Liberation
In addition to the events mentioned above, AMP released a Nakba statement to commemorate the 75th anniversary. The statement highlighted the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people throughout the years. It emphasized their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. American Muslims for Palestine affirmed its commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause. They focused on promoting justice, and advocating for the rights of Palestinians. The Nakba statement served as a reminder of the continued struggles faced by Palestinians and the need for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Despite 75 years of injustice, the statement expresses hope, noting that more Americans are becoming aware of the plight of Palestinians and the role the United States plays in sustaining the injustice. It mentions the growing opposition to U.S. support for Israeli apartheid and settler-colonialism. It had voices demanding freedom for Palestinians and an end to double standards on democracy and human rights.
The statement asserts the commitment to the fight for justice. It expresses determination not to grow weary or silent as long as Palestinians endure Israeli apartheid. It draws inspiration from the steadfastness of Palestinians in their struggle for liberation and vows to continue educating, organizing, and advocating until Palestinians can return to their lands and live in freedom and dignity. The ultimate goal is the liberation of Palestine.
American Muslims for Palestine played a crucial role in commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Nakba by organizing a series of events and initiatives. Through the Nakba 75 Event in the Capitol, the Nakba 75 Rally in DC, the Nakba 75 Webinar, and the Nakba statement, AMP sought to raise awareness, educate, and mobilize support for the Palestinian cause. By commemorating the Nakba, AMP aimed to honor the resilience of the Palestinian people and advocate for their rights to self-determination and justice.
