Seventy-six years ago, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced and scattered across refugee camps in neighbouring Middle Eastern countries during the Nakba. Many Palestinians sought refuge from persecution by migrating to North, Central, and South America, enduring perilous journeys by sea far from their cherished olive trees.
In the warm shores of the Caribbean, a new generation of Palestinians in Latin America began to thrive, carrying the stories of their homeland in their hearts, yearning for the day they can return.
Despite Israel’s brutal occupation and ongoing conflict, Palestinians strive to reconnect with their land and heritage, symbolized by the key representing the homes they were forced to leave behind.
Generations in Latin America maintain a strong link to Palestine, visiting their ancestral homes to nurture their identity and resist the violence of occupation.
The urge to return is instinctive for Palestinians
For Gassan Salama, a prominent Palestinian-Panamanian deeply tied to his heritage, the desire to return home is a fundamental part of his identity, instilled by his family’s history of displacement and struggle.
The journey back to Palestine is a deeply personal and emotional one for many Palestinians in the diaspora, fueled by a strong determination to keep the dream of returning home alive for future generations.
Drawing future generations back to their roots
Palestinian communities in Latin America share a vision of rebuilding and reinvesting in Palestine, passing down a legacy of resilience and connection to their ancestral lands.
Building homes in occupied territories serves as a beacon for future generations to return, strengthening the bond between Palestinians worldwide and their roots.
Building confidence in the diaspora
Entrepreneurs like Elizabeth Kassis Sabagh create projects that bridge the gap between the Palestinian diaspora and their homeland, fostering connections and preserving heritage through initiatives like The Kassa Boutique Hotel in Bethlehem.
This deep connection to Palestine transcends borders and generations, inspiring a sense of belonging and a commitment to advocating for the Palestinian cause.
Overall, the resilience and determination of Palestinian communities in Latin America demonstrate a profound commitment to preserving their identity, resisting occupation, and working towards a future where they can return to their homeland.