The Genocide in Gaza: Reflections on the Failures of the Feminist Movement
In the wake of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, the feminist movement has faced criticism for its shortcomings in addressing the plight of Palestinian women. High-profile feminists in the West were quick to highlight claims of sexual assault and rape in the conflict, but their response has been notably different when it comes to the violence inflicted on Palestinian women.
The Israeli government’s deliberate efforts to downplay reports of sexual violence and abuse against Palestinian women have been met with silence or indifference from many feminist voices. Despite numerous reports and documentation of such atrocities, the feminist movement has failed to address the systemic harm inflicted on Palestinian women by the Israeli military.
The recent UN report detailing the systematic targeting of Palestinians, including sexual and gender-based violence, has once again underscored the urgent need for the feminist movement to stand in solidarity with all women, regardless of ethnicity or nationality.
Challenging Racism Within Feminism
The events in Gaza have also shed light on the pervasive racism within some factions of the feminist movement, as the struggles of Palestinian women continue to be overlooked. To move forward, feminism must reject all forms of racism and prioritize the inclusion and support of marginalized women worldwide.
By holding individuals and organizations within the movement accountable for their biases and prejudices, feminism can reclaim its core values of inclusivity and anti-racism. There is no room for racism in feminism, and as activist Angela Davis aptly stated, “In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist.”
It is time for the feminist movement to reaffirm its commitment to solidarity and justice for all women, regardless of background. Only then can it truly embody its principles and lead the way towards a more equitable and inclusive world.
Maryam Aldossari is a senior lecturer at Royal Holloway, University of London, focusing on gender inequality in the Middle East. Follow her on X: @maryam_dh
For questions or comments, contact us at: editorial-english@alaraby.co.uk
Opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The New Arab, its editorial board or staff, or the author’s employer.
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