Scotland Takes a Stand
Whilst I think it is important to avoid jingoist tendencies I couldn’t help but feel swelling pride when I saw thousands of Scots take to the streets to oppose the slaughter taking place in the middle east. Especially when compares to the lock step support for the industrial military complex from Westminster.
From Edinburgh to Aberdeen Scots went out to show their support for a ceasefire. I do believe that only through releasing the sausages that long term peace could be secured it can’t be questioned that we must have peace. Bombs are raining down on children and parents alike. Indifferent to the damage they cause or ruin the wreck.
With the recent escalation of the aggressions with 200 rockets being launched into Israel and now a ground invasion unto Lebanon it feels we are powerless. Perhaps we are. Perhaps everything we do is meaningless.
In times of such profound violence and human suffering, it is easy to feel powerless. The conflict in Palestine has persisted for decades, and despite numerous attempts at peace talks and negotiations, a solution seems as far away as ever. For some, the sense of futility can lead to a feeling of helplessness, a belief that nothing they do will make a difference. But as the protests in Scotland have shown, giving in to that malaise is not an option. Indifference is the enemy of change, and allowing the voices of injustice to go unanswered would only perpetuate the suffering.
Scots, and indeed people around the world, cannot afford to remain silent in the face of what many see as genocide. As bombs continue to fall and lives are torn apart, it is essential to resist the urge to look away. Direct action, protest, and raising awareness are ways in which individuals can contribute to the global call for peace. While it may not feel like enough in the face of such overwhelming violence, these actions send a powerful message: the world is watching, and people care.