30 October, 2009

Remembering an American that supported the Palestinian cause

Remembering an American that supported the Palestinian cause 

About 20 years ago, a guy burned himself to demonstrate and bring attention to the Palestinian cause. I think the man was from Boston, and there was a brief mention of him on Ted Koppel's ABC News show Nightline.

The news was very brief and I do not remember that the name of this person was mentioned. It stuck in mind that this persons name was not mentioned and that the news was not picked up and highlighted by others and in greater detail considering that the event is so rare -- that a human being burned himself in support of a cause. I do not think this is the most appropriate way to support a cause, but the event was remarkable and very noteworthy.

That the event was not publicized much did not surprise me considering the low level of coverage that was typical of that time in highlighting the Palestinian cause in the press where the Israeli point of view was dominant.

This story stuck in my mind for a long time, and I puzzled as to why the Palestinians did not make much publicity of this event, and did not recognize the act of this individual, as far as I knew. Had it been someone doing this at that time in support of the Israeli cause, much would have been done by those who support Israel to ensure that such a person became a hero, to set an example for others in encouraging them to support or continue supporting Israel's cause.

So a short while back I wanted to find out the name of this individual for an article that would mention his name and what he did, but I was not able to trace back the name. So if someone knows of this individual and can send me this information, I would appreciate it. Meantime, I hope the Palestinians would consider recognition of this man, be it naming a street after him or other appropriate recognition.

By,
Jamil Kazoun


Author of the book: A Second American Revolution: Creating Rational Government
and the book: A Third American Revolution: A New World Government . A Plan for Liberty, Justice and Peace"

Previous Stories:
  Freedom and its absence in Lebanon and the USA   (6/1/2009)
  How freedom of speech and citizens are victims in the Arab states   (6/23/2008)
  American Rachel Corrie remembered for facing Israeli bulldozer   (3/17/2006)
  Israeli bulldozer kill American activist defending a Palestinian home   (3/17/2003

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