"While the information can be a recap for certain people, I learned something new: according to Save the Children, in 2022, half of its survey sample kids in Gaza had thought about suicide. I thought it was necessary information to put into perspective the reality of the occupation for those who still doubt its severity."
October 18, 2023
To:
Claire Porter Robbins, Writer, Globe and Mail
Natasha Hassan, Opinion Editor, Globe and Mail
Dear Claire Porter Robbins and Natasha Hassan,
I am writing to thank you for the “On the Gaza Strip, forms of punishment are permanent features of everyday life” opinion article, published on October 17, in the Globe and Mail.
It was refreshing to read an article that contextualized the situation in Gaza like it is, while many media are shying away from doing so.
I especially liked that you humanize, from the get-go, Palestinians, who have been dehumanized since the start of the Israeli occupation. Reem is a fan of Nutella just as much as people who also like Nutella.
I also liked that you mention that Israel’s blockade on Gaza since 2007 is collective punishment and that it “is a permanent feature of everyday life, which began long before this devastating war.”
While the information can be a recap for certain people, I learned something new: according to Save the Children, in 2022, half of its survey sample kids in Gaza had thought about suicide. I thought it was necessary information to put into perspective the reality of the occupation for those who still doubt its severity.
Amidst the recent events unfolding and a lack of context surrounding Gaza in media coverage, thank you for providing information about Gaza and further informing Canadians.
Sincerely,
Fatima Haidar,
Media Analyst, Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East