US activist voices support to Palestine

US rights activist, Medea Benjamin says the occupation of Palestine in 1948 left a violent, devastating legacy for thousands of people and an entire region, adding she and her fellow right activists would stand in solidarity with Palestinians.

The activist made the remarks in an interview with the Qods News Agency (Qodsna). The full text of the interview follows.

Qodsna: What is your opinion about the Catastrophe Day and also displacement of Palestinian people in 1948?

Benjamin: Catastrophe Day and the displacement of Palestinian people in 1948 are tragic occurrences that have left a violent, devastating legacy for thousands of people and an entire region. We stand in solidarity with Palestinians who have suffered and are pushing to bring them justice.

Qodsna: What is the present status of Right of Return of Palestinian from international and field point of view?

Benjamin: As Codepink, we’ve signed on to the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement to boycott Israeli institutions until it complies with international law. One of the tenants of the BDS call is for the Right of Palestinian refugees to return.

Qodsna: How do you see role of America/ EU in undermining the right of return of Palestinian?

Benjamin: America undermines the right of return of Palestinians in their strong alliance with Israel, including millions of dollars in military aid given to the Israeli Defense Force, which in turn is used against Palestinians. Both America and the EU refuse to recognize human rights abuses committed by Israel towards Palestinians due to their interests in the region.

Qodsna: How human rights activists can revive the right of return issue?

Benjamin: Human rights activists can revive the right of return issue by organizing collectively with a strong message in favor of Palestinian human rights. By exposing Israeli war crimes and oppression of Palestinians in the media and in communities, activists can persuade public interest in favor of Palestinians.

Qodsna: What is the role of the diaspora in preserving their national identity?

Benjamin: It impacts different Palestinian communities differently. But it’s amazing how Palestinians have managed to preserve their cultures and traditions despite being refugees throughout the world.