Today marks 78 years since the Nakba, remembered by Palestinians as the “catastrophe” that led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people from their homes in 1948 by Israeli forces.
Observed annually on 15 May, Nakba Day is commemorated through marches, prayer gatherings, educational programmes, and renewed calls for justice, as communities across the world reflect on the ongoing impact of displacement and occupation on Palestinian lives.
This year’s commemoration comes amid continued global focus on the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories.
Speaking to VOC News on the importance of remembering the Nakba, Sheikh Ihshaan Taliep said preserving memory is essential in resisting injustice and standing with oppressed communities.
“We can’t become oblivious to injustice and the ethnic cleansing of a people. We can’t be morally neutral in a context of oppression, because then you have sided with the oppressor,” he said.
Taliep also called on communities to participate in a planned human chain in solidarity with Palestinians.
“The call is to the Muslim community in particular, as well as broader civil society. Following Jumu’ah prayers today, from 2pm to 3pm, a human chain will be formed along Klipfontein Road, stretching from Duinefontein Road to the police station in Athlone, insha Allah. We are calling on all communities, especially masaajid in the Cape Flats and Athlone areas within walking distance of Klipfontein Road, to encourage congregants to proceed there immediately after Jumu’ah salah and become part of the human chain.”
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: Pexles
