Protests in Paris have recently highlighted solidarity with Lebanon and Palestine, as demonstrators gathered at Place de la République to voice their support against Israeli occupation. Activists, including a young Lebanese woman named Sarah, expressed frustration with political rhetoric, demanding tangible actions rather than mere speeches. Sarah's sentiments reflect a broader discontent among Lebanese expatriates in France, who feel that their struggles are often overlooked by leftist politicians, despite the historical support from these parties during significant events like the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982.
The protests in France have a rich history, with Lebanese students playing a crucial role in raising awareness about the Palestinian cause since the early 1980s. However, recent years have seen a decline in solidarity movements, attributed to political divisions within the Lebanese community and a perceived waning of support from French leftist parties. Activists like Caroline Rivera Darsella from “Urgency Palestine” argue that the effectiveness of these parties has diminished, calling for a more proactive approach that includes economic boycotts against institutions supporting the Israeli occupation.
Despite challenges, activists remain committed to their cause, emphasizing the importance of long-term efforts in raising awareness and fostering international solidarity. They believe that their actions, although sometimes limited in immediate impact, contribute to a broader understanding of the issues at hand and help maintain the momentum for change. The message from these gatherings is clear: the struggle for the rights of the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples will continue until they achieve justice, with activists pledging to resist colonialism in all its forms.
