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IN a powerful display of solidarity and activism, the Cape Town Ulama Board and the Cape Town Islamic Educational Centre (CTIEC) came together this month to commemorate World Keffiyeh Day, shining a light on the Palestinian cause and the 77th commemoration of the Nakba.
By SAYED RIDHWAAN MOHAMED
This annual event, observed on May 11th, serves as a visual platform to raise awareness and demonstrate support for Palestinians through the symbolic use of the Keffiyeh, a garment steeped in cultural significance for the Palestinian people.
The CTIEC, known for its commitment to education and social justice, tailored its classes for that week to focus on Palestine and the genocide faced by Palestinians.
Madrasahs and classes operating under the CTIEC in Cape Town immersed themselves in discussions centred around the Palestinian cause, highlighting the challenges and injustices endured by Palestinians on a daily basis.
At the forefront of this commemoration was Moulana Sayed Imraan Ziyaee, the Principal of the CTIEC, who seized the opportunity to shed light on the dire situation in Gaza during his address at the CTIEC Madrasah Aisha. Attendees draped themselves in Keffiyehs and Palestinian colours, symbolising their solidarity with and empathy for the Palestinian population.
The Cape Town Ulama Board, in a statement, underscored the potent political symbolism of the Keffiyeh, stressing that it is more than just a fashion statement – it is a declaration of unity and support for the people of Palestine. The Keffiyeh, according to the Ulama Board, represents a collective stance against injustice and a commitment to never forget the struggles faced by Palestinians in their quest for justice.
Social media platforms played a crucial role in amplifying the message of solidarity on World Keffiyeh Day.
Some key organisations used their social media pages to share their views:
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Nomvula Mokonyane, Deputy Secretary-General of the ANC, highlighted the symbolic tribute of wearing Keffiyehs in anticipation of the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, the Catastrophe that reshaped Palestinian history. Mokonyane emphasised that wearing the Keffiyeh is a form of resistance against oppression and a beacon of hope for freedom, resonating with the sentiments of individuals who participated in the day’s events.
Jaamia Galant, Chairperson of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), emphasised the significance of World Keffiyeh Day as a commemoration of Palestinian resistance, resilience, and global solidarity. The Keffiyeh, in Galant’s view, serves as a visual protest against the ongoing actions of Israel in Gaza and the apartheid regime in the West Bank, both of which have had devastating impacts on the Palestinian population.
Advocate Shameemah Salie, an Al Jama-ah Member of Parliament, reflected on the dual significance of May 11th as World Keffiyeh Day and Mother’s Day in South Africa. Salie expressed condolences to mothers who have lost children and to children who have lost their mothers due to various tragic circumstances, using the Keffiyeh as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and human rights.
World Keffiyeh Day is as a day for solidarity, education, and reflection, empowering participants to actively engage in the global efforts to bring about change and justice for the Palestinian people.
The events in Cape Town showcased the collective commitment of individuals and organisations in Cape Town to stand in solidarity with Palestine and amplify the voices of those affected by ongoing struggles and injustices.
Photo CTIEC MEDIA
Photo CTIEC MEDIA
Photo CTIEC MEDIA
Photo CTIEC MEDIA
