African Americans and the Palestinian Struggle

African Americans have played an important role in international social, cultural and political events. African American intellectuals, men and women, political and cultural activists have worked to illuminate and strengthen the ties between people of color and the quest for justice and equality. The Palestinian question is no exception to this rule.

Black-Palestinian solidarity has a rich history, rooted in the shared struggle against racism, imperialism, and oppression.

Parallel Struggles: Many Black Americans see the Palestinian struggle as reflecting their own fight against structural racism in the United States.

Police Brutality: The rise of protest movements against police brutality in the U.S. has connected Black activists with Palestinian activists under a common cause.

Kindred People: Black Power activists have long viewed Palestinians as kindred people of color, both waging similar battles for freedom and justice

Historical Context:

Imperial Parallel: Some in the Black freedom movement saw Israel’s conquest of Palestinian lands as an imperial parallel to the racialized violence African-Americans experienced.

Vietnam War Comparison: Similar to how the U.S. war in Vietnam was criticized, Israel’s actions were seen as part of a broader struggle against oppression

Advocacy and Awareness:

Spreading Awareness: Black Americans have been actively advocating for Palestinian rights and participating in protests.

Pressure to Choose Sides: As the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies, there is increasing pressure for individuals and entities worldwide to take a stance

In this complex geopolitical landscape, solidarity between these two communities continues to evolve, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy across borders and struggles.

Malcolm X and Palestinian Struggle (1960s)

Malcolm X, a prominent voice in the Black struggle in the US, visited Palestine multiple times.

Alex Lubin Site

https://www.middleeasteye.net/discover/palestine-black-lives-matter-solidarity-pictures

Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC):

In 1967, the SNCC published a newsletter called Third World Roundup that challenged mainstream media narratives on Israel-Palestine.

Ethel Minor, who had worked with Malcolm X, wrote a column in this newsletter, emphasizing shared struggle and countering misinformation

SNCC 1967 Statement on Palestine

Black Panthers

Pan-African Cultural Festival in Algeria (1969):

Algeria hosted the first Pan-African Cultural Festival, becoming a beacon of freedom for revolutionary struggle.

Black Panther Party leaders Eldridge Cleaver and Huey P. Newton met with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) during this festival.

Additional statements by the Black Panther Party on the Palestinian Question

George Jackson and Palestinian Solidarity:

George Jackson, a Black Panther and Soledad Brother, was tragically murdered in 1971 during a claimed “escape attempt.”

In his prison cell after his death, poetry by the Palestinian leader and poet, Samih al-Qasim, was discovered. Al-Qasim’s poems included works like “Enemy of the Sun” and “I Defy”

Andrew Young (1970s)

In 1979, Andrew Young, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, faced controversy after meeting with PLO representatives. Young was forced to resign due to pressure from the Israeli government.

.Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and advocate, has had a notable connection with the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO).

Jackson led a delegation to the Middle East, engaging with both Israeli officials and PLO representatives, including Yasser Arafat

In the late 1970s, Jackson intervened on behalf of an accused PLO terrorist held in the United States. He requested alternatives to extraditing the man to Israel, expressing concern about a fair trial.

Jackson’s actions reflected his commitment to justice and fairness, even in complex geopolitical situations

Jesse Jackson’s engagement with the PLO underscores the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and understanding in addressing global conflicts. His efforts aimed to bridge divides and promote peaceful solutions.

Legacy of Solidarity (21st Century)

The Black-Palestinian alliance continues to influence movements today.

Black Lives Matter Movement and Solidarity:

The recent violence in Israel and Palestine has sparked a powerful sense of solidarity among many African-Americans.

Well-known Black public figures, including Brooklyn Nets point guard Kyrie Irving and actress Viola Davis, have expressed support for Palestinians.

Black Lives Matter activists have actively organized and promoted pro-Palestinian protests across the United States.

The movement draws parallels between the Palestinian struggle and issues closer to home, such as police brutality and militarized police occupations

The solidarity between Black Americans and Palestinians has been growing, with both groups finding common ground in their struggles for freedom and civil rights. Here are some key points:

Black Lives Matter (BLM) incorporates this solidarity, recognizing the interconnected struggles against racism and oppression .

In summary, Black leaders and activists have historically found common cause with the PLO, recognizing kindred spirits in the quest for human rights and liberation.

Important Sources on Contemporary African American Linkages to the Palestinian Struggle

Black Feminists: Solidarity with Palestine

Blacks for Palestine

Solidarity Library: African American professors dedicate online database to Birzeit University | Birzeit University