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Palestine-Israel Border Crisis

  • Imagine owning a home that was passed down from generation to generation, only for someone to barge in, and suddenly declare it as their own. This is how Palestinians feel. For many generations, Palestinians have had settled homes and a settled lifestyle until 1948, the start of their displacement by the coming of Israelis. Post-1948, Palestinians have been living in exile, forcing them to leave what they have owned for years. Israel has been in denial of Palestine’s history and refuses to acknowledge them as a legitimate country regardless if Palestinians provide proof of land deeds dating back to several years. Since the occupation by Israel, they have taken control over the economy, agriculture and natural resources, which has caused a lot of controversy. The Israeli settlers have also demolished homes, a huge catastrophe for Palestinians. Several images are shared over social media of the disasters, most which are ignored by mainstream media. Through the power of social media, more people can be educated on what is happening in Palestine, and as a result, there can be more help to end the oppression and the apartheid.

    Today’s generation is best at using social media to express their frustrations and outcries. With many politicians also involved, it is easy to start hashtag movements, organize protests, and spread awareness of what is being ignored by mainstream media, and to get the attention of these politicians. For example, it is known that Donald Trump is an avid twitter user. For many of us frustrated about his border plans and travel ban, we can all send tweets such as #NoWallNoBan, which he would definitely see. But for the purposes of the Palestine-Israel border crisis, use social media to start protests, and educate those who have no idea what is happening outside of the U.S. There are many activist pages in which several people comment having no idea about this situation and express outrage towards the apartheid. Protests have also been effective in cases such as the women’s suffrage parade of 1913, the Montgomery bus boycott, and even recently, protesters were able to temporarily stop Trumps travel ban. With social media as our main platform of expression, it is easier than ever to get the attention of officials and get the help Palestine needs. Additionally, anyone who wishes to help Palestine may also donate to non-profit organizations such as Palestine Children’s Relief Fund.

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  • Dear Afsana, I love your hook here. You visualize what can often feel like a far away problem. I also appreciate your specific solution– social media. While readers might scoff and say social media can’t change anything, you present evidence that shows otherwise. If our readers/followers are Presidents and other world leaders, then yes, maybe our tweets and hashtags CAN make a difference! I never considered the role of social media in EDUCATING others…all interesting.

    DW

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