I (will always) stand with the oppressed.

Even though their shackles may look different from my own.

I was going to write a very different post.

It’s half-written and saved in my drafts and you may still see it yet.

But something else needs to be written today.

Remember that when your power is specifically rooted in communication, your silence speaks volumes.

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The Israel-Palestinian one has a long history and I do not claim to know every fact or event or situation that has happened up to this point. I do not even claim to know exactly what has happened since this particular situation has developed.

But I do know that in the current situation, one group of people is being oppressed by the other.

And I stand with the oppressed. Always.

I may not agree with how the Palestinians have chosen to resist their oppressors, but the right to resist is always, undeniably, theirs. It would be easy for me to say they shouldn’t have given Hamas support or resources, or that Hamas should be condemned because they’re backed by the oppressive regime in Iran - I am far removed from the conflict.

But the people who live in oppression choose their path of resistance and I support their right to resist their oppressors in any way that works for them.

The master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house. —Audrey Lorde

Many others have provided much more nuanced takes on this whole issue, many others with far clearer perspectives, greater depth and breadth of understanding of the complexities of the situations, and who have been studying or living this conflict for years.

Turn to them for education.

Here are some resources I am learning from:

@SgpForPalestine - they also have a Linktree with organizations you can support with funds.

@eye.on.palestine - coverage from the frontlines

@medicalaidpal - self-explanatory

@landpalestine - Updates and historical context about what’s happening in Palestine

And there are more that I will not list here.

Of course, Instagram is a limited source of information and not where to get all your education about what’s going on in this conflict, but these are the most accessible resources I can share at this time.

Please be aware that some of the resources I shared above share graphic and disturbing images and videos so be aware/mindful of what you are capable of digesting and protesting.

Have deep conversations with your community, with your people about what’s happening.

Don’t lose sight of your humanity.

I don’t presume to know why you’ve taken whatever position you’ve taken. But this is mine.

I will always stand with the oppressed. No matter what their oppression looks like. No matter whether I can imagine that the same could happen to me or my family. Especially if I cannot.

Because we have a shared humanity. And your oppression is mine. And I will stand with you against your oppressors.

Whether it’s Palestine or Iran, whether it’s because of the color of your skin or the religion you practice, whether it’s because your genitals don’t match your gender expression or you love someone you “shouldn’t”.

I’m committed to dismantling ALL systems of oppression.

However and wherever they may show up.

#FreePalestine