Posts tagged with "hypocrisy"

The Cost of Silence: Final Message of Anas Jamal Al-Sharif, Palestinian Journalist

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Editors Note: Anas Jamal Al-Sharif one of the five journalists recently killed by Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) wrote these words before he was assassinated by Israel in its ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people in occupied Palestine. His primary message is a final testament and a plea for the continuation of the struggle for Palestine’s liberation, urging recipients to support his family, remember Gaza, and not to be silenced. He asserts that he died steadfast in his principles and content with Allah’s decree.

Anas Jamal Al-Sharif’s final words:

This is my will and my final message. If these words reach you, know that Israel has succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice. First, peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy and blessings.

Allah knows I gave every effort and all my strength to be a support and a voice for my people, ever since I opened my eyes to life in the alleys and streets of the Jabalia refugee camp. My hope was that Allah would extend my life so I could return with my family and loved ones to our original town of occupied Asqalan (Al-Majdal). But Allah’s will came first, and His decree is final. I have lived through pain in all its details, tasted suffering and loss many times, yet I never once hesitated to convey the truth as it is, without distortion or falsification—so that Allah may bear witness against those who stayed silent, those who accepted our killing, those who choked our breath, and whose hearts were unmoved by the scattered remains of our children and women, doing nothing to stop the massacre that our people have faced for more than a year and a half.

I entrust you with Palestine—the jewel in the crown of the Muslim world, the heartbeat of every free person in this world. I entrust you with its people, with its wronged and innocent children who never had the time to dream or live in safety and peace. Their pure bodies were crushed under thousands of tons of Israeli bombs and missiles, torn apart and scattered across the walls.

I urge you not to let chains silence you, nor borders restrain you. Be bridges toward the liberation of the land and its people, until the sun of dignity and freedom rises over our stolen homeland. I entrust you to take care of my family. I entrust you with my beloved daughter Sham, the light of my eyes, whom I never got the chance to watch grow up as I had dreamed.

I entrust you with my dear son Salah, whom I had wished to support and accompany through life until he grew strong enough to carry my burden and continue the mission.

I entrust you with my beloved mother, whose blessed prayers brought me to where I am, whose supplications were my fortress and whose light guided my path. I pray that Allah grants her strength and rewards her on my behalf with the best of rewards.

I also entrust you with my lifelong companion, my beloved wife, Umm Salah (Bayan), from whom the war separated me for many long days and months. Yet she remained faithful to our bond, steadfast as the trunk of an olive tree that does not bend—patient, trusting in Allah, and carrying the responsibility in my absence with all her strength and faith.

I urge you to stand by them, to be their support after Allah Almighty. If I die, I die steadfast upon my principles. I testify before Allah that I am content with His decree, certain of meeting Him, and assured that what is with Allah is better and everlasting.

O Allah, accept me among the martyrs, forgive my past and future sins, and make my blood a light that illuminates the path of freedom for my people and my family. Forgive me if I have fallen short, and pray for me with mercy, for I kept my promise and never changed or betrayed it.

Do not forget Gaza… And do not forget me in your sincere prayers for forgiveness and acceptance.

Anas Jamal Al-Sharif

06.04.2025

“This is what our beloved Anas requested to be published upon his martyrdom.”

The Unseen Costs of Suppressing Truth: A Critical Look at Global Press Freedom

In an increasingly interconnected world, the battles fought for truth and information abroad have profound echoes on American shores. Recent devastating reports from international bodies and journalists themselves paint a stark picture: the deliberate targeting of journalists and vital civilian infrastructure, like hospitals, in conflict zones is not just a violation of international law, but a chilling assault on the very pillars of free press and human dignity.

For ePluribusAmerica, this isn’t just news from afar; it’s a critical examination of the ideals We, the People hold dear as unwilling participants and funders of the genocide in Palestine.

Need to Know:

  • Journalists Under Fire: On Sunday, an Israeli military strike killed five Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza, including correspondent Anas al-Sharif, who three weeks prior had voiced fears of assassination to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Al-Sharif began reporting for Al Jazeera in 2023, covering the bombardment in northern Gaza and later widespread hunger in the territory. The UN Human Rights Office in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) reports an alarming pattern of killings of journalists in Gaza, making it the deadliest place in the world for media professionals. Since October 7, 2023, hundreds of Palestinian journalists have been killed, with recent attacks on hospitals resulting in multiple journalist fatalities. These incidents are not isolated; they represent a documented pattern of targeting, with specific journalists like Anas al-Sharif of Al Jazeera being identified and killed after previously raising concerns about their safety.
  • Hospitals as Targets: Beyond journalists, hospitals – facilities explicitly protected under international humanitarian law – are repeatedly attacked, pushing an already fragile healthcare system to collapse. This deliberate disregard for civilian life and suffering raises serious concerns about intentional violations of international obligations.
  • Information Control: Israel’s consistent denial of access for foreign journalists to Gaza, coupled with the apparent targeting of Palestinian journalists, points to a deliberate effort to limit the flow of information and prevent independent reporting on the ground.
  • A Global Crisis of Press Freedom: This issue extends beyond the coverage of the genocide in Palestine. The state-sanctioned murder of Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 and the recent death sentence against a Saudi teacher for social media posts highlight a global trend where speaking truth to power can be a death sentence or lead to severe repression. Even established media organizations like the BBC face accusations of bias in their conflict coverage, underscoring the pervasive challenge to objective reporting.
  • War Crimes and Impunity: Directing attacks against protected persons like journalists is a violation of international humanitarian law and constitutes a war crime. Despite documented evidence, there’s a troubling lack of accountability for these actions, raising questions about international mechanisms designed to uphold justice.

Takeaways:

  • Journalism is a Battlefield: For many, the act of reporting is not just a profession but a perilous commitment, often balancing personal safety with a moral imperative to document harsh realities.
  • The Intentionality of Suppression: The repeated attacks on journalists, like Shireen Abu Akleh, and the restriction of access suggest a deliberate strategy to control narratives and suppress inconvenient truths, rather than isolated incidents.
  • Erosion of Trust: When media outlets are perceived as biased or actively suppressed, it erodes public trust in information sources, making it harder to discern facts from propaganda.
  • Accountability is Lacking: The global community’s response to these documented violations often falls short, leading to a sense of impunity for those who commit these crimes.
  • Media Literacy is Paramount: In an era of information overload and targeted misinformation, the public’s ability to critically analyze media and seek diverse perspectives is more crucial than ever.

Implications for American Culture:

The assault on press freedom abroad is not merely a foreign policy concern; it strikes at the heart of American cultural identity and the foundational principles enshrined in our First Amendment.

  • The Erosion of the First Amendment Ideal: For Americans, freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy. When journalists are systematically targeted and silenced globally, it sends a dangerous message that undermines the very ideal we champion. It creates a precedent that could, over time, normalize such actions and subtly erode the global commitment to press freedom, impacting our own protections.
  • Informed Citizenry at Risk: A healthy democracy relies on an informed citizenry. If access to accurate, unfiltered information from conflict zones is restricted or deliberately skewed, it directly impacts Americans’ ability to understand complex geopolitical issues, shape informed opinions, and hold their leaders accountable. This can lead to misinformed public discourse and potentially flawed foreign policy decisions.
  • The Peril of Propaganda: The deliberate attempt to control information flows, seen in the denial of foreign journalists’ access and the targeting of local reporters, creates an environment where propaganda can flourish. For a culture that values truth and transparency, this is a cautionary tale about how easily narratives can be manipulated when independent voices are silenced.
  • The Hypocrisy of American Values: The suffering of journalists abroad and the blatant disregard for humanitarian law challenge America to live up to its stated ideals. Protecting journalists and advocating for human rights globally isn’t just about altruism; it’s about safeguarding the very principles that define us as a nation. It’s a call for American citizens, media organizations, and policymakers to actively reverse course on our current foreign policy with Israel and concerning the Middle East, condemn the deliberate killing of journalists,  and stand up for press freedom and accountability on the world stage, ensuring that “freedom of the press” isn’t just a phrase, but a universal right.

The events unfolding underscore a critical truth: the fight for a free press is a global endeavor. How we respond to the deliberate targeting of journalists and the suppression of truth abroad will ultimately reflect on the strength of our own commitment to these essential American ideals.

Independence Day: More Than Just Fireworks – A Reflection of American Identity

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Independence Day, celebrated every July 4th, is often synonymous with fireworks, parades, and barbecues. Yet, beneath the vibrant spectacle and joyous gatherings lies a profound historical and cultural significance that continues to shape the very fabric of American identity. For those with a keen interest in American culture, understanding the deeper implications of this federal holiday offers a richer appreciation for the nation’s journey and its enduring motto: E Pluribus Unum – out of many, one.

A Nation Forged in Ideals: The Birth of a Declaration

The genesis of Independence Day lies in the unanimous adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This pivotal document formally announced the thirteen colonies’ separation from Great Britain. While the Constitution later provided the legal framework for the United States, it is the Declaration, with its eloquent assertion that “all Men are created equal,” that remains equally beloved by the American people. This foundational ideal, while initially imperfectly applied, set a precedent for the nation’s aspirations and its ongoing pursuit of liberty and justice.

From Spontaneous Celebrations to National Observance

The first anniversary of American independence saw spontaneous celebrations, as detailed in John Adams’ letter to his daughter, Abigail. However, it wasn’t until after the War of 1812 that observing Independence Day became a widespread custom. Soon, significant national undertakings, such as the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Erie Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, were strategically timed to coincide with July 4th festivities. This early trend underscores how the holiday quickly became interwoven with national progress and unity.

The Evolving Meaning of Freedom: A Call for Consistency

The significance of Independence Day has always been a dynamic reflection of American society. In 1859, the Banneker Institute of Philadelphia urged African Americans to celebrate the day not just as a national holiday, but also as a powerful moment to highlight the glaring inconsistencies between the ideals espoused in the Declaration of Independence and the harsh reality of slavery. Mr. Jacob C. White Jr., chairman of the meeting, articulated a profound hope for a future where grievances would be redressed and “long lost rights” restored. This demonstrates how marginalized communities have historically used the holiday to push for a more inclusive vision of American freedom, embodying the “out of many, one” principle even in times of profound division.

The Grandest Secular Holiday: A Tapestry of Traditions

By the 1870s, the Fourth of July had cemented its place as the most important secular holiday on the American calendar, officially becoming a federal holiday on June 28, 1870. Its widespread appeal meant that even remote communities on the western frontier would gather for celebrations. As recalled by Miss Nettie Spencer in a Federal Writers’ Project interview from the 1930s, the Fourth was “the big event of the year,” bringing together people from all walks of life for floats, speeches, and lively festivities. These accounts paint a vivid picture of a day that transcended mere commemoration, becoming a vital communal experience that fostered a sense of shared identity and belonging. The “twisting the lion’s tail” speeches, the political effigies, and even the “plug uglies” — humorous floats poking fun at political subjects — reveal a lively tradition of democratic expression and a uniquely American blend of patriotism and playful critique.

Regional Flavors, Common Spirit

Across the nation, from the parades in Nome, Alaska, to the celebrations on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, the spirit of Independence Day remained consistent, even if the specific customs varied. Dr. Samuel B. Lathan’s recollections of South Carolina celebrations in the late 19th century—featuring military drills, barbecues, political speeches, and even “primitive prize fighting”—further illustrate the diverse yet unified ways Americans have observed the holiday.

Key Takeaways:

  • Foundation of Ideals: Independence Day is rooted in the Declaration of Independence’s assertion of equality and self-governance, principles that continue to guide American aspirations.
  • Evolution of Meaning: The holiday’s significance has evolved, serving as both a celebration of freedom and a platform for advocating for a more just and inclusive society.
  • Unifying Force: Despite regional differences, Independence Day has historically brought communities together, fostering a shared sense of American identity and civic engagement.
  • Reflection of Culture: From fiery speeches to festive parades, the celebrations reflect a unique blend of patriotism, democratic expression, and community spirit that defines American culture.

Staying the Course: Upholding the American Dream and Principles

Independence Day calls us to reflect not only on our past but also on our present and future. In a nation built on the ideal of E Pluribus Unum, the pursuit of the American dream and the commitment to the principles of liberty, justice, and equality remain paramount. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary society and political discourse, it is essential to remember the foundational aspirations that have shaped our nation. Independence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey towards a more perfect union, urging us to consider how we can collectively uphold the values that define American culture and society for generations to come.