Non-Violent Protest in Palestine
Morning last Thursday began with stone-faced, Israeli soldiers marching past the Peace House where we gathered for sage tea before heading to see one of Hebron's two Women's Charitable Society locations. The message on those military-trained faces: "Don't share a smile. We have no intention of sharing this land."
Thankfully, we had shared gracious overnights with local Palestinian families, learning their personal stories of loss of loved ones and loss of any sense of safety in their own homes on their own land.
Sunshine greeted us at the Woman's Charitable Society in Hebron's H1 district along with the voices of energetic pre-schoolers and inspiring teachers. Women students of all ages were there studying the Qu'ran just like my Bible study at home. Handmade embroidery items were available to purchase to support the school projects.
Sadly, the Women's Charitable Society in H2 is shut down due to illegal, Israeli settler power and their false accusations. What a loss for the many Palestinians in need!
An unbelievable contrast came in our next trips.
A trip to the Palestinian-owned, Palestinian job-providing factory, Royal, was fascinating and full of eye-pleasing products. But what is the cost? Palestinians remain tied to Israel's economy both as the factory owners and employees. Freedom is relinquished to Israel, the unjust occupier.
Next we witnessed and participated in an evening with youth protesting the closing of Shuhada Street by dancing traditional steps and planting flowers representing new life and joy. Again an inspiring Palestinian teacher was planting hope instead of accepting apartheid and lack of freedom.
Being an international observer as I marched alongside Saturday's protest against the closing of Shuhada Street and the honoring of Palestinians who gave their lives in the cause of justice for Palestinians, something inside me changed forever.
Like marches in the USA moving to end segregation in my country, this march and the pray-filled event that followed gave new power to non-violent protest in Palestine and its determined leadership.