‘Hospitality is a huge aspect of Palestinian life, offering warmth, food and tea to our guests’

Today on International Palestinian Solidarity Day, we join the international calls for justice, peace, and human rights for the Palestinian people.

This day not only serves to remind us of the ongoing struggle for sovereignty and independence but also as a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Palestine, which continues to thrive despite decades of displacement and oppression.

This day is not only about coming to terms with the political struggle; it is also an opportunity to reflect on the cultural identity that continues to be passed down, despite decades of adversity.

Al Al-Maghrabi is a Labour Party Councillor for Frome Vale, Bristol North East – photo: CB Bristol Design

Growing up as a young Palestinian I was immersed in the traditions of my heritage.

Our home was filled with reminders of our identity – beautiful, embroidered pillows, traditional calligraphy, and Palestinian artwork slotted in between photos of cultural landmarks like the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Nebi Musa.

My parents taught me the importance of Palestinian values, history, and culture to one day pass on to my own children. Hospitality is a huge aspect of Palestinian life, offering warmth, food, and tea to our guests.

I learned the significance of the keffiyah, with its patterns representing olive orchards, fishing, and trade, and its role as a symbol of resilience and national pride.

Overshadowed by wars and violence, Palestinian culture doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

For example, the traditional Palestinian dance the dabkeh is another major aspect of our identity, centred around events and celebrations such as weddings.

If I had to describe it, this group dance is similar to foot stomping crossed with a tap dance style of footwork with arms across each other’s shoulders symbolising unity. It really brings out the joy in people – although I was never great at it myself.

Food is another important aspect of Palestinian identity.

My family have always emphasised that food was more than something to eat, it was a way of preserving traditional Palestinian culture and a way to remind us of our roots.

I grew up enjoying my mother’s delicious homemade falafels, creamy hummus, and shakshuka – a hearty dish of onions, tomatoes, and eggs.

One of my favourite meals is maqluba, the national dish of Palestine – rice, meat, and fried vegetables cooked in a pot and skilfully flipped to reveal a beautiful, layered presentation.

Huge deserts and mountains make up the landscape tapestry of Palestine – photo: Al Al-Maghrabi

As we celebrate International Palestinian Solidarity Day, we must remember that the focus on cultural heritage goes hand in hand with continued calls for justice and peace through demonstrations and activism.

On this day each year the United Nations urges immediate action to address the Israeli occupation and the continued expansion of illegal settlements.

Nowhere in Gaza is safe.

More than 2 million people are trapped with little food & no safe water to drink.

Many are living out in the open and the healthcare system is near collapse.

See how @UNFPA is responding: https://t.co/LBKW3e1QLJ pic.twitter.com/PPN931MPxB

— United Nations (@UN) November 28, 2024

The UN General Assembly has consistently emphasised its support for Palestinians’ inalienable right to return to their homes, a right which is enshrined in numerous resolutions.

The displacement of over 760,000 Palestinians in 1948, during the creation of the State of Israel, is a deeply painful chapter in our history that shapes the identities and daily lives of Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and the global diaspora.

Sadly, since, more painful chapters of Palestinian history have been written. The current situation demands urgent and immediate action.

A permanent ceasefire across Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories is the first step towards ending the cycle of suffering.

It is welcome news that Israel and Lebanon have just come to ceasefire terms, but this must be replicated in Palestine. The escalation of violence has resulted in unbearable loss of life. Innocent civilians – many of them women and children – are bearing the brunt of this devastation.

A ceasefire is essential to halt the bloodshed and allow for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid and continued support to humanitarian efforts in the region. It is equally essential we hold leaders accountable, regardless of where in the world they come from.

The issuing of arrest warrants for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, defence minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas military leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (Dief) by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes are important steps in accountability.

War crimes must be investigated with absolute seriousness and the ICC is most appropriate body for this task – nobody is above the law.

During a dark time for Palestinians, I take comfort from the solidarity of my fellow Bristolians.

When I first moved to Bristol in 2017, it put a massive smile on my face to discover the Palestine Museum, filled with historical accounts, artifacts, paintings, and Palestinian goods to buy. Visiting it was one of the first things I did after settling here and the volunteers were all so lovely and welcoming.

It felt like a bridge to my homeland and a powerful reminder in Bristol I wasn’t alone – I had support and representation in this wonderful city I chose to call home.

This is an opinion piece by Al Al-Maghrabi, Labour councillor for Frome Vale.

Main photo: Al Al-Maghrabi

Read next:

• Bristol24/7 is throwing a B10 party you won’t want to miss!
• Pro-Palestine protesters march down Park Street
• ‘Arguably, tougher standards should be considered’