haunting ＊ percy jackson

NOT A CHAPTER

I've thought about it a lot the last couple days, but unfortunately, there won't be a chapter this week. Instead of posting the chapter I have prepared, I've decided to stand in solidarity with Palestine and the global strike currently happening (January 21-28). Rather than posting the new chapter, I'd like to share some resources and talk about the situation.

The genocide occurring in Palestine has been terrible to watch. It is brutal, and violent, and cruel, and I've seen more atrocities coming out of that region than I've ever thought imaginable. The people of Palestine deserve to be free. They deserve to be able to live their lives without fear, to watch their children grow up and their parents grow old, to live and love and experience life without oppression.

I understand that some people believe this issue to be complicated. It's true that the history between Palestine and Israel is extremely messy and long, but I encourage everyone to do a bit of research on it in order to learn more and better understand the depth of the conflict. I also understand that some readers may disagree with my stance or be unhappy with my decision. As unfortunate as that is, this is an issue extremely close to my heart, and I cannot ignore my morals for the sake of being liked.

As someone in university who is studying history and has taken various courses on genocide as well as the justification of war, and as someone who comes from an island that is currently colonized, dealing with its own (less extreme, but certainly still there) issues, I feel especially passionate about this topic. I have done the research and am very firm in my belief that Palestine should be free, and that the current conflict is unjust.

I could go on and discuss sources from the UN or the ICC which state the clear guidelines for what makes something a genocide, and talk about how the events in Palestine very clearly line up with that (and I will if anyone is interested) to back up my opinion, but ultimately, I really just want to raise awareness to the issue.

When atrocities like this happen in the world, they must be spoken about. It's hard to watch, and to discuss, but I feel like we owe it to the people of Palestine. Everyday they are broadcasting their pain, and their suffering, making videos in foreign languages, begging for people to listen and to care about what is happening to them. The least we can do is pay attention, and respect them by spreading the word about what they're going through.

There are a million ways to help. Boycotting certain corporations (such as Starbucks, Mcdonald's, Disney, etc.), donating money for aid or eSIM cards, contacting your representatives, etc. But even if you can't do any of those, the least you can do is spread their stories. Remember them. Do not forget about all the people losing their lives, or their family members, or their homes. On my message board I've posted various links to donate, get info on the history, learn about boycotts, etc.

Thank you for reading, the next chapter of the story will be posted next week.

- isa <3