Growing up in America, understanding struggle is second nature. We’ve borne witness to the civil rights movement, the persistent fight for equality, and the daily challenges faced by many communities. Just as we’ve felt the weight of our own history, we can empathize deeply with the pain and suffering unfolding in the Middle East.
Gaza is a stark testament to the tragedies of conflict. Every bombed church, every shattered hospital, tells the story of innocent lives cut short, futures derailed, dreams crushed. As I watch this from afar, the weight of history rings in my ears, reminding me that injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere.
At the same time, I can’t ignore the fear gripping Israel. The constant hum of sirens, the rush to bomb shelters, the anxiety of waiting for the next rocket. It’s a life no one should have to live, not in Israel, Gaza, or anywhere.
But here’s the truth, as raw and as real as it gets: violence only births more violence. We’ve seen it in our streets, in our history, and it’s clear as day in the Middle East. No matter the reasons, the aftermath is always the same: regular people, trying to live their lives, paying the highest price.
The tales of suffering in both Gaza and Israel aren’t just headlines for me. They’re reminders of what happens when hate is left unchecked, when we let our differences overshadow our shared humanity.
As Americans, we have a duty to stand against oppression, to voice our concerns when we see wrongs being committed, and to push for peace. It’s not about taking sides; it’s about recognizing that at the end of the day, it’s the innocent children, families, and communities that bear the brunt of these conflicts.
The road to peace is long and winding, filled with potholes and setbacks. But if there’s one thing our history has taught us, it’s that change, real change, comes from persistence, understanding, and a whole lot of love.
So, let’s channel that same energy, that same spirit of unity, and advocate for a world where children in both Gaza and Israel can look towards a future without fear.
Nkozi Knight 