American Muslims for Palestine annual convention features Rashida Tlaib, Marc Lamont Hill

American Muslims for Palestine’s (AMP) annual convention brings voices from different backgrounds together to discuss and plan for a free Palestine. Being at the convention gave me the opportunity to listen to a variety of speakers such as Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, Hoda Kotabi,   and a keynote address from Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. I learned and grew a deeper appreciation for the stories that they carry with them on their journey to freedom in Palestine.

When Dr. Hill shared that he lost his job with CNN after giving a pro Palestinian speech at the United Nations, it gave me chills. He stated that losing his job was nothing compared to the loss of Palestinian children and that is the reason he continues to fight for the cause. Love, power, sincerity, and passion are all words I would use to describe the Palestinian people and although he is not Palestinian, Dr. Hill is no exception to any of those characteristics. His voice continues to add onto the roar of this fight.

From this event, something that will stay with me was having a conversation about Palestine with a couple from India. They were kind and intrigued by everything that was being said about Palestine and from that I found comfort in a group outside of my own. Coming all the way from Minnesota for this conference they came on a journey to learn more and share their voice with others too. Their hope for the freedom of Palestine radiated as they talked to me of their own feelings. 

The convention ended with performances by Bladdi Zaffa, Al Salam Dabke, Waheeb Nassan and Jae Deen. Nassan and Deen performed their songs “I’m So Pali” and “Touchdown Palestine.”