The history of Palestine has been shaped and distorted by over a century of narratives imposed by Western powers enslaved to the American war industry. These distorted narratives have shaped the destiny of this afflicted land, supporting and justifying the cruel system of Israeli settlement colonialism and apartheid, which continues to manifest itself before our eyes with the ongoing genocide of thousands of women and children in Gaza.
The struggle of the Palestinian people, their resistance, and their deep roots have been carefully documented over time. However, too often these pieces of evidence are denied or hidden by those seeking to shield Israel from being held accountable for its actions. It is a struggle not only for land and freedom but also for the right to one’s own history and narrative.
The work on narrative holds great importance in this battle for truth and justice. It offers us the opportunity to build spaces where aspirations for the right to freedom, justice, and existence can be raised and shared.
The goal of “Refugees” is to give voice to those Palestinian and Syrian refugees who have been segregated in Lebanese camps for decades and to provide an objective perspective of events to all those who wish to deepen their understanding of the situation and act in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The dominant narrative, constructed to justify oppression, must be challenged and deconstructed through the voices of refugees, which are essential in dismantling the myth of narrative balance, which often presents the conflict as a matter of “two equal parties.” In reality, the situation is deeply imbalanced, with a military occupation persisting for decades and a people forced to live under an apartheid regime.
A regime imposed by the State of Israel that continues to perpetrate systematic violations of the fundamental human rights of the Palestinian people and refugees. Restrictions on freedom of movement, discrimination against Palestinians in occupied territories and refugee camps, segregation through walls and checkpoints, and denial of the right to work, education, and health are just some of the practices reminiscent of the dark days of apartheid in South Africa.
The narrative of Palestine cannot be reduced to a simple territorial dispute. It is a matter of fundamental human rights, dignity, and justice. It is a story of resistance, resilience, and hope of a people who continue to struggle despite adversity.
We aim to be vigilant in exposing and countering false narratives that seek to deny the suffering and injustice inflicted upon the Palestinian people. Only through awareness, solidarity, and action can we hope to create a future in which Palestine can finally enjoy the peace and freedom it deserves.
“Refugees” tell not only stories of struggle and survival but also of solidarity and inspiration. Our articles, images, reports, and testimonies are tools that make narratives visible, accessible, and interconnected with those in the camps who struggle and work for the liberation of a collective conscience that does justice to the Palestinian people.
Dan ROMEO