Okay so my sister and I had a very similar discussion today. She asked me if I wanted to go to the protest being held in downtown tomorrow for Gaza.
This is what I said to her and this is what I'm saying to you guys - hopefully someone can give me a powerful enough answer: What will us standing in the freezing cold and screaming do for Palestinians? What is the purpose of this protest - what will we get out of it except media coverage?
All of us very very well know Israeli officials couldn't care less about this protest. Nor does it ever matter. No protest has ever changed anything, ever.
I told my sister, if she really wants to help - aside from making dua, she should donate money for the cause. That will help more than standing on the street tomorrow with a sign no one is looking at. She claims the money won't reach the needy.
So people, I am hoping you guys can shed more light on this issue for me, thanks. :)
SU, us screaming and protesting in the cold might not stop the blood shed right away but it makes a powerful statement. If Im the only standing outside the Mayor of Chicago's office protesting a bill or an act, I wont get noticed but if Ive thousands of people right along with me, it makes a difference! We think we're only one person and how on earth can my single body make a difference in the bigger picture. The thing is, a crowd is made up of people like you and I. Forget the crowd, Im talking about worldwide efforts here. Its not just their problem. Its ours too and just because we're sitting far away from them doesnt absolve us of all responsibilities towards them. Its starts with people like you and I and thats when others start to notice.
Media coverage is exactly what we want...how else do we reach across these waters and get to them?
YOu know what the worst part of my conversation with this person was? They felt Palestinians deserved all this. And they are Muslim themselves. It was so sad to hear this, I almost felt my heart break. How can killing elderly, men, women, babies, children, whole families be okay???