Susan Abulhawa demands justice and liberation at Oxford Union

On December 4, 2024, at the Oxford Union in the United Kingdom, Palestinian human rights activist Susan Abulhawa gave a passionate speech addressing the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. Her address occurred during a debate on whether Israel is an apartheid state responsible for genocide, a motion that received overwhelming support from the audience, passing with 278 votes for and 59 against. Abulhawa’s speech highlighted the historical context of Palestinian displacement, noting that Zionists have historically viewed Palestinians as obstacles in their path, likening them to rocks that needed to be cleared. She recounted horrific accounts of violence against Palestinians, including the tragic incident of a young boy in Gaza who suffered severe injuries from a booby-trapped food item. This narrative starkly illustrated the harsh realities faced by Palestinians under conflict. Abulhawa spoke profoundly about the ongoing oppression and violence aimed at Palestinian people, referencing the words of certain Israeli officials who have openly called for acts of violence against Palestinians. Her speech emphasized not only the physical violence but also the psychological implications of such a mindset, suggesting that it stems from a deep-seated ideology of supremacy that seeks to erase Palestinian existence. Moreover, she emphasized the richness of Palestinian identity, their connection to the land, and the resilience of those still fighting for their rights in the face of enduring violence. In her impassioned plea to the audience, Abulhawa condemned the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Palestinians and invoked the spirits of civil rights leaders Malcolm X and James Baldwin, who also confronted issues of systemic oppression. She called for recognition of Palestinian humanity and agency, rejecting the framing that limits their choices to leave their homeland, accept subjugation, or die unceremoniously. By asserting that Palestine will eventually be free, Abulhawa conveyed hope for a future where multi-religious and multi-ethnic coexistence is restored, envisioning a time when the region can thrive in peace. Abulhawa's speech not only sought to raise awareness among the audience at the Oxford Union but also aimed to resonate across generations, ensuring that the struggles and memories of Palestinians are not forgotten. It emphasized the importance of acknowledging and rectifying historical wrongs as part of a broader journey toward justice and liberation for oppressed peoples globally. Her fervent words sought to connect past injustices with present realities, urging the audience to engage with the issue of Palestinian rights seriously and empathically.