As witches, many of us understand what it is to have a deep connection to the land, we understand what it is to see ourselves in the trees beneath our fingers or the earth beneath our feet. In so many ways, “in our thousands, in our millions, we are all Palestinians”.
Activism is not merely a noble deed but a sacred expression of love – for ourselves, our communities, and the Earth. By embracing solidarity, we cultivate a profound sense of purpose and empowerment, recognizing that our actions hold the potential to shape the course of history. When we march through the streets and raise our voices in unity, we affirm our unwavering commitment to building a world that is founded upon principles of justice and compassion.
In our pursuit of justice and liberation, it's crucial to recognise that activism transcends moments or movements. It becomes a way of life, a part of our identity woven into the very fabric of our existence, having resonance extending far beyond the fleeting attention of headlines and hashtags. While the focus may ebb and flow between causes, our dedication to justice remains unwavering.
Activism
At the heart of activism lies a profound shift in perspective – a disconnect from the notion of "doing a good thing" and an embrace of activism as part of who we are. It is an act of love, both for ourselves and our communities, and a gesture of self-preservation in a world rife with injustice.
It's essential to recognise that activism can take many forms, and every individual can contribute to the Palestinian cause in their own unique way. Whether it's through advocating for Palestinian rights, supporting local initiatives in solidarity with Palestine, or raising awareness about the ongoing struggle, each action contributes to the broader goal of achieving justice and liberation for Palestine.
By embracing a diversity of approaches and perspectives, we can foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, where individuals feel empowered to make a difference in their communities according to their abilities and interests. It's about recognizing the value of every contribution, and understanding that collective liberation is achieved through collective effort. With each action we take in support of Palestine, attending protests, participating in boycotts, or engaging in other advocacy efforts, we contribute to the weaving of a vast web of solidarity that spans across communities and continents.
Inclusivity
Some may question the inclusivity and accessibility of activism, arguing that certain groups are excluded or marginalised within these movements. Indeed, historical examples abound of movements that have failed to adequately address the needs and concerns of diverse communities, perpetuating systems of oppression and inequality. However, by embracing principles of intersectionality and actively working to centre the voices and experiences of marginalised groups, we can foster more inclusive and equitable spaces for collective action.
Actively amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and addressing systemic barriers to participation ensures that activism is truly representative and inclusive. By fostering a culture of solidarity and comradeship, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society for all. We centre Palestinians and Palestinian voices. We amplify the voices of those oppressed by occupation, advocate for their rights, and endeavour to uplift the most marginalised among us.
While the term "activist" may conjure images of outspoken advocates leading protests or organising rallies, it's crucial to recognise that activism takes many forms and can be expressed in diverse ways. By broadening our understanding of activism to encompass everyday acts of advocacy, mutual aid and community care, we create space for a more inclusive and accessible movement.
It's also imperative that we recognise our privilege and actively strive to dismantle systems of oppression within our movements. We need to frequently check ourselves and our motivations. Why are we doing this, is it for a shot at the spotlight or to look good, or is it part of a deeper drive for liberation for us all? To balance that question, I think it’s also important to try our best to not get caught up in the idea of “virtue signalling” or worrying about what our activism looks like. If we and our community know we’re doing things for the right reasons, then it doesn’t matter what outsiders think. By leveraging our platforms and privileges, we endeavour to create spaces wherein marginalised voices are not just heard but heeded.
Witchcraft and Activism
As we meld the threads of witchcraft and activism, we uncover the transformative power of community care on our own well-being. Our journey towards liberation extends beyond individual empowerment; it encompasses a collective ethos of care and solidarity. Witchcraft can show us the interconnectedness of all beings, reminding us that our destinies are intricately entwined with those of others.
Incorporating elements of activism into our craft enhances our connection to the Earth and our spiritual selves, deepening our commitment to justice and liberation. Through rituals, spells, and sacred practices, we channel our intentions towards the liberation of Palestine, infusing our activism with spiritual power and purpose. With each candle we light and every incantation we utter, we honour the Palestinian people and call upon the forces of nature to aid in their struggle, we contribute to the weaving of a vast web of solidarity that spans across communities and continents. In the spirit of witchcraft, we embrace the elements of air, fire, water, and earth as allies in our fight for justice, weaving spells of protection and healing for Palestine and its people.
As with all magick, magickal and spiritual activism is nothing without mundane action. Forming new habits that over time will become so ingrained that to deviate would feel unnatural. Like the ex-smoker who can no longer stand the smell of cigarette smoke, the habitual mask wearer who feels utterly naked without their mask, or the ex-fast-fashionista who now only buys clothes second-hand, these things can become second nature.
Our liberation is bound to the liberation of others, and as such, we must pledge ourselves to the enduring struggle for collective emancipation. Indeed, activism is not a solitary pursuit but a collective endeavour. Shoulder to shoulder with our fellow humans, we amplify each others’ voices, advocate for each other's rights, and endeavour to uplift the most marginalised among us. Through our combined strength and shared resources, we forge pathways towards a future where justice, equity, and dignity prevail.
Individual Action
One common critique is the perceived ineffectiveness of individual actions in bringing about systemic change. Sceptics argue that small gestures, such as boycotting Israeli products or participating in solidarity campaigns, are insignificant in the face of entrenched power structures and institutionalised oppression. While it's true that systemic change requires comprehensive reform at a societal level, it's also true that individual actions can contribute to broader social movements and catalyse meaningful change over time. Every movement for social justice has been built upon the collective efforts of individuals committed to a shared vision of a better world.
Consider the impact of supporting local community initiatives. While it may seem like a small-scale effort, the collective support for grassroots organisations can have a significant ripple effect in addressing local issues and fostering community resilience. For example, individuals who volunteer at food banks or community kitchens not only provide immediate assistance to those in need but also contribute to broader efforts to combat food insecurity and poverty in their local area. Moreover, by giving business to local businesses and artisans, individuals support the local economy and promote sustainable consumption practices, reducing reliance on large corporations and fostering community cohesion.
Through these seemingly small acts of support, individuals contribute to building stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to address systemic challenges and advocate for positive change. Individual actions can often serve as catalysts for larger social movements, inspiring others to join in and effecting broader systemic change. While individual actions may not seem to offer immediate solutions, they play a crucial role in laying the groundwork for broader societal transformation.
Swapping from buying your morning coffee at a chain to an independent coffee shop can have huge ripple effects with just that one tiny action.
True transformation begins with these small, deliberate actions we undertake in our daily lives. In our quest for justice, we may often find ourselves juggling multiple truths and fighting myriad battles, each vying for our attention. Yet, the path to meaningful change is not always linear, nor is it defined by the quantity of causes we champion. Instead, it is marked by a deliberate shift in focus, a commitment to implementing small, quiet actions into our everyday routines.
Our daily actions morph into acts of resistance and solidarity. Whether it's reducing our environmental impact, supporting ethical and sustainable products, or advocating for marginalised communities, each choice we make reverberates beyond ourselves, cascading into a myriad of transformative possibilities.
Sustained Engagement and Burnout
Another critique often levelled against activism is the challenge of sustaining long-term engagement and commitment. Critics argue that activism is often characterised by periods of intense activity followed by burnout and disillusionment. While it's true that activism can be emotionally and physically demanding, sustainable activism is possible when individuals engage in self-care practices, set realistic goals, and cultivate supportive communities. By prioritising our well-being and balancing our activism with other aspects of our lives, we can maintain our commitment to social justice over the long term.
Understanding that activism is a marathon rather than a sprint allows individuals to pace themselves and recognise that progress takes time. By celebrating small victories and fostering a sense of collective resilience, we can navigate the ebbs and flows of sustained engagement more effectively.
As we traverse the intersecting realms of activism and witchcraft, we come to understand that self-care is not a selfish act – it's a revolutionary one. On an individual level, we recognize rest and replenishment as essential to the resistance; by setting boundaries, honouring our needs, and practising radical self-care, we fortify our spirits for the arduous journey towards liberation. These things alone may not seem radical, but viewed as part of the constellation of activism we can see that it keeps us fueled and ensures our well of compassion doesn’t run dry. It can give us a clear view of the world we’re fighting for. Like in everything, balance is essential in this work.
Beyond the individual, community care can become a cornerstone of our self-care routine; by investing in the needs of our communities and comrades, we cultivate a profound sense of belonging and purpose that nourishes our spirits and sustains us through times of adversity. Acts of solidarity are, at their core, acts of self-care. Whether it's tending to our peers by creating care pods and wellbeing groups, providing meals or doing errands for activist friends, or participating in other mutual aid efforts, our well-being is intricately interwoven with the well-being of those around us.
The Commitment
Navigating this intricate terrain, we recognize the vital importance of humility and solidarity. Our commitment to continuous learning extends to understanding and addressing our privileges and biases. Through introspection and education, we endeavour to become better allies and accomplices in the fight against injustice. Each new insight gleaned, each nuance of systemic oppression explored, serves to fortify our resolve and amplify our impact.
Acts of self-governance are a simple way to think about our mundane activism, through simple acts of responsibility – from putting our litter in the bin, to recycling to returning a shopping trolley – we embody the values of compassion, stewardship, and accountability in our mundane lives. Let us, however, not succumb to the snares of perfectionism.
Our journey towards liberation is marked by progress, not perfection and let us remember that activism is not a sprint but a marathon. This isn’t a wagon to fall off. We may stumble, we may falter, but we must never lose sight of the finish line. We can pause, we can rest but we must not stop. This is the lifestyle change we all need to make. For in the end, it is not the speed of our progress that matters, but the steadfastness of our resolve.
By making sustainable choices that align with our values and through collective action, humility, and solidarity, we forge pathways of authenticity and resilience towards a future where Palestine is free from occupation and oppression.
10 things you can do:
- Attend a march
- Practice BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) - https://bdsmovement.net/
- Check your groceries etc and avoid buying things manufactured in Israel
- Email your government representatives - UK people find links here: https://www.theyworkforyou.com/
- Platform and share Palestinian voices wherever you can
- Support Palestinian businesses
- Look after your local activists
- Sign petitions, e.g. to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, to stop sales of arms etc
- Do more research about the Palestinian people, their history and culture
- Talk to your family and friends, share what you’ve learned
Tarot Spreads / Journalling Prompts
The Aspiring Activist Spread
What is my current understanding of solidarity and activism?
How can I deepen my commitment to standing in solidarity with Palestine?
What challenges or obstacles may arise on this path, and how can I overcome them?
What strengths or resources do I possess that can contribute to the Palestinian liberation movement?
What areas of my life need more focus and attention to align with my values of justice and compassion?
What message or guidance can you offer me on my journey of solidarity and activism?
The Privilege Deconstruction Spread
What is an area of my privilege which is affecting my worldview?
Where do I feel resistance and discomfort concerning this privilege?
What biases and blind spots do I have in this area?
How do I disrupt the harmful patterns that can be symptomatic of this privilege?
How do I cultivate humility and openness to learning from my mistakes?
How can I engage in meaningful allyship and solidarity by using my privilege?
The Brain Decolonisation Spread
What is a deeply ingrained narrative or belief that I have internalised? What historical, cultural or societal factors have influenced this?
How can I begin to deconstruct this belief and make room for more liberating and empowering perspectives?
What healing practices and rituals can I use to aid and support this process?
What role can I play in manifesting change to these narratives in my community?
Solidarity Ritual/Meditation/Exercise
Materials:
Cleansing tools
Two candles
A map, image or sketch of Palestine or the Palestinian flag
A piece of paper and a pen
Method:
Begin by cleansing your space using whatever method you prefer, focusing your intention on creating a sacred and protected environment for your ritual, as you do this take some deep breaths and centre yourself in the moment.
Place the map or image of Palestine in the centre of your altar or workspace.
Light the first candle, invoking the energy. Visualise a bright light surrounding Palestine, bringing justice and peace to the region, and protecting the Palestinian people.
Light the second candle, symbolising solidarity and community. As you do so, affirm your commitment to standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people and advocating for their rights and liberation.
Take a moment to meditate on the struggles faced by Palestinians under occupation and oppression. Send them love, healing, and strength through your thoughts and intentions.
Write down a message of solidarity or support for Palestine on the piece of paper. You can express your intentions, hopes, or prayers for justice and peace in the region.
Place the paper under the map or image of Palestine, symbolically anchoring your intentions into the earth.
Spend some time in quiet reflection, allowing any emotions or insights to surface as you connect with the energy of the ritual, you can write down whatever comes up if that feels good to you.
When you feel ready, extinguish the candles, but leave the map or image of Palestine in your sacred space as a reminder of your commitment to solidarity.
You can keep the paper with your message as a talisman or burn it as an offering, releasing your intentions into the universe.
Links
WitchesForPalestine fundraiser for Medical Aid for Palestinians. - don’t forget that if you want to enter the prize draw you must send a screenshot of your donation of £5 or above to witchesforpalestine@gmail.com
Everything you ever wanted to know about Palestine, but were too afraid to ask.
The Activist Witch on Witchcraft and Activism
My YouTube video sharing some thoughts and demonstrating the tarot spreads and ritual.