I was checking on someone from Gaza and I asked them “how’s the condition of the tent?” a question that really, really stung.
As Palestinians, whether or not we experienced living in tents and refugee camps first hand, tents have been a symbol of our initial displacement in 1948.
Finding myself asking this question to a Palestinian 76 years later really struck me.
Israel is a settler colonial entity, intent on disappearing Palestinians through massacres and displacement to make way for its expansionist project.
The fact that this is a question we are still having to ask is beyond heart-wrenching, but it also tells me that try as they might, we are rooted in this land and Israel’s attempts have never deterred us.
Despite how painful this is, the least we can do is actually ensure that these tents are adequate enough to withstand upcoming winter conditions as it approaches.
Siraj is looking to raise funds to secure an adequate living space for his family this winter. He’s currently only $842 away from reaching the target and you can donate here.
And for families who aren’t fundraising, the Sameer Project team is currently working to provide tents to displaced Palestinians in Gaza. You can donate to them via Chuffed / Venmo / PayPal. Just make sure you leave a note “tent” to specify which project you’re donating to.