New outposts, rampant checkpoints, and the construction of new walls: We must demand an end to the U.S.’s unchecked support of occupation Dear Email, I vividly recall a conversation with some friends a few years ago, discussing Israel's occupation and the deep-seated fear I harbored about my hometown, Beiteen, one day falling under Israeli settler control. At the time, I couldn't bring myself to believe it, but the unease persisted in the back of my mind, a fear I wished was unfounded. Unfortunately, in a matter of months, entire Palestinian communities between Ramallah and Jericho had been displaced due to settler violence and state policies, setting the stage for a complete Israeli takeover of thousands of acres of land.  My name is Neveen Ayesh, and I am the Advocacy Coordinator for AJP Action. I was born in one place but raised in two, spending a decade living under Israel's occupation. In 2010, I returned to the United States but have visited Palestine annually since. This past summer, on my journey from Jericho to Beiteen, I observed disturbing changes—a proliferation of new outposts in the central area of the occupied West Bank, additional checkpoints, and the construction of new walls, obscuring the beauty of our mountains and further restricting our movement. More than ten settler outposts, which are deemed illegal even under Israeli law (though the current far-right government is attempting to legitimize them), have sprung up in this region over recent years. These settlers have weaponized shepherding to seize Palestinian land and expel its rightful inhabitants. The few remaining Palestinian communities in the area constantly fear for their safety and well-being, with hundreds forcibly displaced in the past year alone. I cannot predict my response if Israel were to reach my home village, but one thing is sure—I will not remain silent. This brings me to my heartfelt request: I urge you to register for our upcoming Palestine Advocacy Days. We must take the lead and be the voice not only for ourselves but also for our Palestinian brothers and sisters on the ground who lack the platform we possess as Palestinian Americans—a platform capable of igniting real change. The change we seek begins here, where billions of our tax dollars support an unjust occupation, ethnic cleansing, and settlement expansion, all at the expense of our cherished homes in Palestine.  Join me and my dedicated team as we prepare once again to make our case within the halls of Congress. I cannot stress enough the significance of collectively advocating for our cause and standing up against Israel's injustices. We will equip you with the necessary tools and resources to succeed on Palestine Advocacy Days and beyond, and inshallah, we will witness the fruits of our efforts in a liberated Palestine.  To register for Palestine Advocacy Days, please click here. I eagerly anticipate your participation, and together, we will work in solidarity to bring about positive change. |
