In praise of Palestinian steadfastness

Despite 60 years of hardship, real achievement, too.

from the May 2, 2008 edition

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Meanwhile, drawing on their rich cultural and religious heritage, as well as the experience of exile and struggle, Palestinian writers, poets, artists, filmmakers, and even hip-hop artists have contributed much, not only to their own people, but to the whole world.

Historically, one obstacle to peace has been the fact that Israel felt able to pursue its policies of dispossession and occupation without much international attention. This was closely related to the fact that the Zionist mythologized version of what had happened in 1948 went unchallenged in the West – and within Israel – for a long time.

Now, however, through such factors as the Israeli "New Historians," the tireless efforts of campaigners, and new media technology that enables wide dissemination of "on the ground" information," the Palestinians have been able to force cracks in the Israeli propaganda facade.

Meanwhile, international solidarity with the Palestinian cause has increased substantially. The question of Palestine is now loud and persistent, despite attempts to drown it out.

Still, formidable obstacles remain. Israel continues to enjoy the whole-hearted support of the so-called international community, albeit with occasional wrist-slapping. Much of the discussion in the West is still shaped by Zionist assumptions and an Israeli-centric perspective. Palestinians are treated as natives who must "earn" the right to self-determination, dignity, security, and freedom.

Some Palestinians have also unwittingly created barriers to further progress. The first intifada's positive energy got channeled into the bureaucratic institutions of the Palestinian Authority, while bitter divisions were often created between groups like Hamas and Fatah.

Meanwhile, Palestinian political unity and a strategic, principled resistance have often been in short supply. Score-settling, corruption, and the interference of third parties remain major obstacles.

The Palestinians would also gain by a collective agreement to halt attacks on Israeli civilians. As well as the moral dimension, it's good politics, too. It could even form part of a broader shift toward less "elitist" resistance strategies based on mass, popular participation. But it should not be confused with the hypocrisy of simultaneously demanding Palestinian pacifism while acquiescing to Israeli military attacks.

Sixty years is a long time. So this anniversary, it's most appropriate to recognize Palestinian sumud, or steadfastness. It is the Nassars struggling through roadblocks and checkpoints with their children and farm tools, planting olive trees in the shadow of Israeli settlements, determined and dignified.

Against all odds, millions of Palestinians have remained – working the land, starting businesses, marrying, having children, mourning the dead. In the face of determined efforts to marginalize, even erase, their homeland and society, they have continued to live life in all its fullness, the best possible foundation for greater victories still in the next 60 years.

• Ben White is a freelance journalist specializing in the Middle East.

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