Even in the midst of the new year’s excitement, I genuinely can’t stop being haunted by thoughts of Palestine. We have the privilege of celebrating the new year, making resolutions, looking forward to the blessings in the year ahead—but many Palestinian children didn’t get that privilege. Hundreds upon hundreds of children far younger than me have died in the past 3 months; won’t get the luxury of sharing in this flurry of excitement and joy. Many more are biding their time, not knowing when their last day is. Tonight will mark a new beginning, but I hope it also heralds a year of far more people advocating for Palestine, sharing the atrocities that have been committed in Palestine, boycotting brands supporting Palestinian genocide, and just all around finally coming to terms with the fact that Palestinian genocide SHOULD be their concern—even if they’re not being directly affected by it. More people need to be aware that educating themselves on this should not be a choice, but a responsibility and a must.

here’s to a liberated palestine and an end to the occupation in 2024، إن شاء الله