With all of the action being taken against fee hikes and furlough days throughout the United States and especially here in California, action against the demolition of homes and the chance of being driven out of the country is taking place in the eastern part of Jerusalem. The mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat, has a new plan to get rid of the old neighborhood of Al Bustan in order to build a national park that will attract tourists and bring in money for the city. The mayor believes that it has major potential; residents disagree and wish to stay where they are. This is the overall message, but, because of the Palestinian - Israeli conflict, the underlying plan is to have all Palestinians dispossessed of their current homes to have them be replaced by Jewish people. The mayor of Jerusalem says that he has the Palestinians in mind but they believe that he is a liar. I just can’t believe that the mayor would sink this low and use the new buildings to justify the situation of having the Palestinians leave the country. I understand where he is coming from and the money that it will bring towards Al Bustan. However, he can’t put a price on the destruction that it will cause on the lives of these current residents.
In the picture above, these children are protesting and have the right to do so. If children are protesting at their tender, young ages then what does that tell you? (This is a note to myself). Having the opportunity to stand up and take action by marching around town and informing their fellow residents of the issues is truly an inspiration and has courage and empowerment written all over it. (pics via: nytimes)
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