Gaza’s non-violent resistance deserves global attention

Their efforts are often ignored while violence grabs the headlines

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When discussing the Palestinian struggle, opponents often ask, “Why is there no Palestinian Gandhi?” It’s a valid question, one that suggests a perception that peaceful resistance is absent in Palestine.

However, the question misses key elements of the Palestinian cause and the complex dynamics at play. One possible answer is that such a leader has been silenced—either killed or imprisoned by the Israeli state, which has long been known for its harsh repression of Palestinian activists. Another, perhaps more powerful, answer is that many Palestinians and their supporters already embrace non-violent resistance inspired by global icons like Mohandas Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., but this resistance has largely been ignored or suppressed in favour of focusing on violence.

The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is deeply rooted in decades of tension, with Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories contributing to widespread poverty, displacement, and suffering. For Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza, this occupation has meant more than just the loss of land—it’s a daily struggle for survival.

Since 2007, Gaza has been under an Israeli blockade that restricts the flow of essential goods, food, medicine, and humanitarian aid into the region. This blockade has devastated Gaza’s economy and created a dire humanitarian crisis, with civilians—especially children—suffering from lack of access to necessities such as food, medical care, and clean water.

Sadly, alongside widespread efforts for non-violent resistance, there have also been acts of extreme violence, such as the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which resulted in devastating loss of life and immense suffering.

However, the majority of Palestinian actions, from protests to calls for boycotts, have been peaceful. It is important to recognize that while violence by one faction may make headlines, it is the peaceful actions, often ignored by the mainstream media, that truly shape the movement for justice.

The Madleen crew, led by climate activist Greta Thunberg, has faced threats and intimidation from the Israeli military. However, they have remained steadfast in their mission, sharing their story with the world through interviews and social media updates.

In fact, it was American Senator Lindsey Graham’s callous remark on social media, “Hope Greta and her friends can swim!”, that drew global attention to their plight.

Despite the overwhelming military strength of Israel and the unrelenting flow of arms and support from the United States and other former colonial powers, Israel has failed to achieve its military objectives in Gaza. International public opinion has shifted significantly, with even politicians who once supported Israel now publicly criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

This shift in global opinion is also reflected in actions across the world. For example, during a recent soccer match in Munich, Germany, Paris Saint-Germain fans were filmed chanting, “Nous sommes tous des enfants de Gaza (We are all children of Gaza).” This chant, which highlights the solidarity felt by so many around the world, serves as a reminder that the struggle for justice in Gaza is not isolated—it is a global issue.

In Canada, a country that prides itself on human rights and peace, the question is no longer whether we should take sides in this conflict. The real question is whether Canada will live up to its values by demanding an end to the blockade and the suffering it causes.

We are all children of Gandhi, King, and Gaza. Until justice is achieved for Gaza, none of us can claim true peace.

Gerry Chidiac specializes in languages and genocide studies and works with at-risk students. He received an award from the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre for excellence in teaching about the Holocaust.