Youth Day – 16 June 2024

“Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians” – Nelson Mandela

Written by the Palestine Solidarity Alliance Youth League

Activism, when viewed through the lens of consciousness, becomes an enlightening endeavour that addresses the myriad sufferings observed worldwide. This recognition highlights the importance of conscientisation, ensuring that the work toward liberation continues. The struggle encompasses the suffering of the citizens of the entire world.

The parallel between apartheid South Africa and apartheid Israel is unmistakable. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu once said, “I have been to occupied Palestinian territory, and I have witnessed the racially segregated roads and housing that reminded me so much of the conditions we experienced in South Africa under the racist system of apartheid.” This theme underpins the broader concept of oppression and that all struggles are interconnected. Our collective liberation and solidarity are a means of complete freedom from all forms of oppression. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians.”

June 16th, Youth Day, is a poignant reminder of the Soweto Uprising of 1976 where thousands of students of colour protested against the oppressive apartheid regime. Their bravery and determination in the face of brutal repression embody the spirit of activism. Without the bravery of these young activists, we, as South Africans, would never have tasted freedom.

Similarly, today’s youth across the globe are rising in solidarity against apartheid in Israel, with Palestinian youth such as Bisan Owda, Muna El Kurd, and Motaz Azaiza transforming activism as we know it. These young leaders resisted oppression with their phones, using social media platforms to inform the world about Israel’s crimes against humanity. Their efforts have sparked a global uprising, making “Free Palestine” a widespread topic of conversation. The bravery of these youth activists, who provide raw footage of events on the ground, has debunked Israeli propaganda. With authentic video evidence being shared widely, Palestine is finally winning the narrative war for the first time in 76 years.  

Today, student uprisings and encampments have spread across campuses worldwide in support of the people of Palestine. From Wits University to Harvard University, students are organising, protesting, and raising awareness about the plight of Palestinians. These movements echo the spirit of the Soweto Uprising, demonstrating the power of youth to effect change and the enduring importance of activism in the fight for justice. Activism rooted in consciousness demands an understanding of the suffering of those who lack a platform to advocate for themselves.

The similarities between struggles of today’s youth in Palestine and the youth of South Africa can be clearly seen. Youth unemployment is on the rise, resulting in extreme poverty both here in South Africa and in Gaza. Nearly 85% of Gaza’s population is displaced, and the illegal siege on Gaza has left thousands without proper sanitation or running water. Similarly, many South African citizens experience similar struggles. Period poverty is a real issue faced by both Palestinians and South Africans. Education has been halted in Gaza due to schools and universities being turned into rubble and the unimaginable number of students and educators murdered. Similarly, the education system in South Africa has failed us due to the lack of resources. These are just a few of the struggles faced by both Palestinians and South Africans. That’s why when we fight for justice we fight for the justice of all people.

In conclusion, the role of activism in our societies is crucial in order to achieve complete liberation for all. As we reflect on Youth Day and the sacrifices made by young South Africans in the fight against apartheid, we must renew our commitment to global solidarity. By standing together and supporting one another, we can create a world where freedom and justice prevail for everyone.