A group of approximately 250 pro-Palestinian protesters gathered at the Michigan Capitol in Lansing yesterday. They chanted slogans and carried signs that said “Anti-Zionism is not Anti-Semitism” and highlighted what they called the apartheid regime in Israel against Palestinians. The protesters had gathered to show support for the citizens of the Gaza strip, who are currently under siege from the state of Israel.
The weekend bloodbath, caused by Hamas militants flying in on paragliders to attack a concert held in the southern Israeli desert, resulted in an estimated 1,200 deaths. However, none of the speakers at the protest condemned Hamas. Instead, they gave platitudes about not wishing for violence and called for peace. The speakers consistently condemned Israel, highlighting the struggles suffered by Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
The event was notable for the radical rhetoric expressed by the speakers, with some openly encouraging and embracing violence. One speaker even thanked a Communist group for organizing the protest. Communist parties and entities have been known worldwide for siding with Palestinians.
Another speaker contested the label of ‘terrorism’ when describing violent acts by Palestinians. Professor Wassem El-Rayes from Michigan State University explained that belief in basic human rights should not be limited to Palestinians alone.
A student from Michigan State also spoke up against employment discrimination and blacklisting pro-Palestinian petition signers and leaders. They claimed that pro-Palestinian activists had already suffered job losses and employment discrimination because of their activism.
Almost all the speakers condemned Israel, while none condemned Hamas. One board member, an MSU student, explained this by stating that the world has turned a blind eye to the atrocities committed by Israel on an almost daily basis.
The speakers justified the Hamas attacks by pointing out hypocrisies in how Western governments have treated conflicts, such as in Ukraine. They argued that the world paraded the Ukrainian resistance, but labeled Palestine as terrorists and barbarians for resisting.
These radical protests and demonstrations in support of Palestine have become increasingly common on college campuses, including major educational institutions like Harvard, New York University, and Stanford.
The Gateway Pundit has provided the full video and transcript of the 21-minute presentation to ensure fairness and contextualize the remarks fully. The speakers expressed sorrow for the innocent lives lost and emphasized the fight for liberation, but they also condemned Israel for its actions.
Professor Wassem El-Rayes, a Palestinian and former refugee, spoke about the suffering of his family in Gaza. He deplored the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of entire neighborhoods, schools, universities, and houses of worship. El-Rayes argued that Israel has violated the international Geneva convention and called the situation nothing short of a genocide.
The protesters called for an end to the unconditional support of Israel by the US, EU, and mainstream media. They criticized campaigns of misinformation and highlighted open calls for genocide among US politicians.
The protest aimed to bring attention to the plight of Palestinians under Israeli occupation and to condemn the violence perpetrated by both sides. The speakers emphasized the need for justice and basic human rights for all, regardless of nationality or religion.
The demonstration showcased a growing movement of pro-Palestinian activists who are demanding change and raising awareness of the ongoing conflict. By gathering in large numbers and expressing their views, they hope to inspire others to take action and contribute to the cause of peace and justice in the region.
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