Written by Shafika, Steph, Diala, Raneem

Media and journalists have a moral responsibility to report the truth. Language plays a huge role in shaping U.S. views of Palestine and Palestinians.

Colonizers rely on making us feel isolated or that our efforts are futile, capitalizing on the mental fatigue they intentionally create. It is essential that we reject defeatist language. We must speak of our return as inevitable, our struggle as justified, and the occupiers as illegitimate.

Our words should affirm our indigeneity and our right to resist. From 2012 to 2014 alone, the Zionist entity committed 191 violations of ceasefire deals, with 42% of these violations resulting in injuries and detentions, and 10% leading to deaths. This pattern of aggression has continued unabated, as seen in the recent escalations in Gaza. The assassination of the lead negotiator, Ismail Haniyeh, is a clear indication of ‘Israel’s’ attempt to stop all negotiations and continue the genocide in Gaza.

This not only underscores the Zionist regime’s disinterest in upholding ceasefire agreements but also reveals a broader strategy to perpetuate the cycle of violence and oppression, whether through continued bombings in Gaza or escalations in the West Bank. ‘Israel’s’ approach to ceasefires is not one of good intentions but a strategy to use these moments as tactical pauses to regroup and continue its oppressive agenda. Netanyahu’s political career depends on pursuing the genocide of Palestinians.

A study by The Intercept of over 1,100 news articles from October 7, 2023, to January 9, 2024, found that only two headlines referred to Palestinian children in Gaza as “children.” The same disregard applies to Palestinian journalists. There has been a shift in how Western media discusses and criticizes the occupation. Our relentless exposure of double standards has entered the mainstream, challenging their credibility.

At the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Kamala Harris claimed Palestinians have the right to live in dignity. However, at her rally in Michigan, she silenced Palestinian protesters, suggesting that their actions may lead to a Trump victory. The Democratic Party understands that garnering support from pro-Palestine voters is vital, therefore, she is using Palestinians to leverage a win against Trump. The American political system was not designed to protect marginalized people. We cannot trust a system that was not built for us. Nor can we legitimize the system that continues to murder our own people. At the same time, we must hold people, businesses, and institutions accountable to demand real change.

It’s time to escalate. Boycott Zionist policies, activities, and companies. While our power may be limited, we can apply enough pressure to drive lasting change if we are united. Participating in the BDS movement can help us leverage our collective power to protest for Palestinian liberation. Divest from companies and institutions that have investments in illegal Zionist settlements and/or military operations.

Escalate all actions for Palestine.