Don’t Let It Wither Away

Trump on Palestine: A Brief Overview of US Israeli Relations in Four Years

Sara Eldewak

Don’t let it wither away the tan air, and smell of sweet treats and grass it seems like a familiar place the trees have seen it all, and the eyes of young ones filled with confusion don’t let it wither away the world has seen it an eden in ruins yet filled with such beauty authentic, real, pure don’t let it wither away the olive branch is holding on tightly, and the people are holding on tighter war torn, but still connected please don’t let it all wither away

Artwork by Nisrin Shahin IG: Nisrin.Shahin

Person of PACC: An Interview with Sufian Mahmoud

Falastin Staff

Every issue, Falastin highlights a different member of the PACC community as the “Person of PACC.” This issue, we are incredibly honored to be highlighting Sufian Mahmoud. He is a PACC board member and a well-connected young professional in our community.

What inspired you to work with the community?

Growing up, my parents taught my brothers and I the importance of identity. As kids, we went along with them to all the marches and protests for Palestine in NYC and D.C. From these instances I learned more about the Palestinian cause and how important it is to work together and build a strong community. The community and people around me are what made me the successful health practitioner I am today. It is, therefore, in my opinion, an obligation to give back to our community and open new doors for future Palestinian Americans.

What do you think our community needs most?

Our community needs more unity and opportunity. In the past, community members focused on giving back to Palestinians abroad. This is still an important notion to follow today, but as millennials we also need to focus on empowering Palestinian Americans here. I also think that we need to reinforce the sense of identity amongst young adults. Most recently I find that the younger generation does not connect with Palestinian roots as much as before. It should be standard to know what town your family is from, and their culture and history. It should be second nature to be able to defend Palestinian rights. Living in the US and fighting for what we believe in is needed now more than ever before.

Our theme this issue is connection, what connects you to Palestine?

My connection to Palestine is everything. From the moment I'm asked, "where are you from," to the times I speak to my grandmother in Beit Anan, I think of Palestine. I think of the hikes, the summer nights, the Aqsa walls and floors. I yearn to go back soon.

What is your favorite part about working with PACC?

Working with PACC gives me hope and purpose. The fact that I am able to create a constant bridge with my identity and the community fills the gap or yearning to be abroad, in Beit Anan. In America we find ourselves consumed with working around the clock, eating up the any time to gather with friends and family. Despite this, being a part of the PACC network has changed my life for the better. I am no longer sinking in work and my studies, but I am given the opportunity to engage in my culture, meet more Palestinians and contribute to the community I plan to raise my kids in.