JVL introduction:
On November 28, a debate at the prestigious Oxford Union captivated the world, as Palestinian writer and activist Susan Abulhawa delivered an unforgettable speech. Described on her website as a “novelist, poet, essayist, scientist, mother, and activist,” Abulhawa is an ardent advocate for Palestinian freedom and a vocal critic of the Israeli state’s policies. Her powerful intervention in the debate, which led to an overwhelming vote in favour of the motion “This House Believes Israel is an apartheid state responsible for genocide”—with 278 votes for and 59 against—has reverberated globally.
Abulhawa’s speech was not just a response to the motion, but an impassioned appeal to history, humanity, and the injustices endured by Palestinians. Her words stirred emotions and evoked vivid images of the harsh realities faced by Palestinians under Israeli occupation, confronting the audience with an uncomfortable truth about the nature of the Israeli state. Below, we explore the key moments of Abulhawa’s speech and the context surrounding the Oxford Union debate.
Susan Abulhawa’s impactful speech:
Abulhawa’s contribution to the debate was nothing short of remarkable. With unyielding determination, she outlined the historical foundations of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, focusing on the early Zionist plans for Palestine. Drawing from key figures in the Zionist movement, such as Chaim Weizmann and David Ben Gurion, she painted a chilling picture of the colonial mindset that underpinned Israel’s creation. According to Abulhawa, the early Zionists viewed Palestinians as “obstacles” to their ambitions, a sentiment that persists to this day.
In her speech, Abulhawa referenced the infamous words of Israeli leaders and military figures, including Benny Morris and Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed an unrelenting desire to expel or eliminate Palestinians. She cited brutal policies, such as the “break their bones” strategy of the 1980s, as evidence of Israel’s ongoing efforts to subjugate Palestinians. Abulhawa’s testimony of the horrors she witnessed in Gaza, including the story of a young boy maimed by a booby-trapped food can, added a deeply personal and emotional layer to her argument.
Abulhawa made it clear that this debate was not merely about defining Israel’s actions as apartheid or genocide; it was a fundamental discussion about the worth of Palestinian lives. In her words, the debate was about “the worth of our schools, research centers, books, art, and dreams; about the worth of the homes we worked all our lives to build.” She eloquently framed the Israeli occupation as an existential struggle for Palestinian identity and survival.
The context of the debate:
The Oxford Union debate was part of a larger global discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has seen increasing international attention in recent years. As Israel’s military operations in Gaza and the West Bank continue to draw condemnation from human rights organizations, the issue of whether Israel’s policies constitute apartheid and genocide has gained prominence.
Abulhawa’s participation in the debate was particularly significant given the backdrop of heightened tensions and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Her call for recognition of Palestine’s suffering resonated with many who feel that the international community has failed to hold Israel accountable for its actions. By framing the debate in terms of the dehumanization of Palestinians, Abulhawa forced the audience to confront the implications of Israel’s treatment of Palestinian civilians.
The overwhelming support for the motion reflected the growing awareness of these issues. The debate marked a critical moment for those advocating for Palestinian rights, as it showcased the power of public discourse in shaping perceptions and galvanizing action. It also highlighted the importance of academic spaces like the Oxford Union in fostering critical conversations that can challenge established narratives.
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A historic victory for palestine:
Abulhawa’s speech and the vote outcome at the Oxford Union are more than just a victory in a single debate—they represent a milestone in the global movement for Palestinian rights. The resounding support for the motion signals a shift in public opinion, as more people around the world are recognizing the injustices faced by Palestinians.
For Abulhawa, the debate was not just about winning votes; it was about history. As she pointed out, she spoke “in the spirit of Malcolm X and James Baldwin,” invoking the legacy of those who fought against oppressive systems in the past. Her words, like theirs, were meant for future generations, ensuring that the struggles of today will not be forgotten.
Abulhawa’s passionate advocacy serves as a reminder that the fight for justice is ongoing and that spaces for dialogue, such as the Oxford Union, continue to be vital in raising awareness and shaping the future. The motion’s approval may have been a symbolic victory, but for many, it was a moment of hope—a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, the voices of the oppressed can rise and make history.
