On November 8, 2024, activists gathered outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City for a significant hunger strike aimed at drawing attention to the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This event was part of the broader Free Global Youth Movement’s call for international solidarity against what activists describe as genocide, ethnic cleansing, and forced displacement of the people of Gaza. The New York hunger strike coincides with similar actions taken by activists across the globe, particularly echoing the sentiments of Jordanian hunger strikers who have been pushing for their government to cease complicity with Israeli policies.
The urgency of this movement stems from over a year of suffering endured by the people of Gaza due to Israel’s brutal blockade. The activists have highlighted alarming statistics: reportedly, 96% of Gaza's population faces severe food insecurity, with malnutrition resulting in the tragic deaths of children. Activists like Mohammad Odeh, participating from Jordan, emphasized their commitment to the struggle, stating, “I believe my life is not of higher value than the lives of the Palestinians being massacred in Gaza.” This sentiment resonates deeply among participants of the New York City hunger strike, fueled by the testimonies of those living under siege.
The situation inside Gaza has reached catastrophic levels. Reports indicate systematic attacks on healthcare systems and humanitarian aid distribution, described by the United Nations as “medicide.” The strikes and protests, both locally and internationally, aim to pressure governments like the U.S. to leverage its influence to end these humanitarian violations and allow aid to reach those most affected.
Within New York, the hunger strikers are not alone. Health professionals and community members joined forces, bringing attention to the apparent lack of urgent action or accountability from major human rights organizations. Jennifer Koonings, one of the organizers and healthcare worker, expressed her frustration, stating, "Institutions claiming to care have only offered us empty proclamations and platitudes." Such remarks reflect the pervasive disillusionment felt by many activists who have continuously raised awareness about the worsening conditions without seeing tangible political change.
Meanwhile, back on the ground in the Middle East, public sentiment is bolstered by protesters who recognize the need for immediate international action. Jordanian activists have echoed this by calling for their government to close all commercial crossings to Israel. They demand relentless action against the economic ties with Israel until sufficient humanitarian aid can reach northern Gaza, which remains under severe blockade.
Despite facing threats and repression from their government, the Jordanian hunger strikers remain committed, emphasizing the weight of their sacrifice. Activist Rand Nammas articulated the deep sense of responsibility felt by participants, noting, "The hunger and pain we feel are lighter on our conscience than watching genocide broadcast live silently." Such expressions reveal the moral drive behind their efforts, as well as the rising tide of collective resistance to systemic injustices.
The collaboration between international activists signals the potential for a significant movement, one where coordinated actions and shared goals push for accountability and humanitarian justice. The New York hunger strike serves to amplify the voices of those who feel abandoned by traditional power structures and are demanding global westwide action. Until liberation is achieved, they commit to continuing their struggle.
Meanwhile, labor strikes are also rising as workers across different sectors join movements to challenge oppressive practices. A key focal point is the Citizen Housing workers’ strike taking place across Birmingham, Coventry, Hereford, and Worcester. Over 200 laborers have walked out, fed up with what they describe as pay hypocrisy. Workers shared their frustrations about management securing significant raises—about 6.5%—while they’ve been offered mere paltry raises, around 4%, after demand for minimum compensation was raised to 9.2%. One worker articulated the sentiment of many, stating, “How is this fair?” as dissatisfaction builds over treatment and pay disparity.
Reflecting the benefit of media coverage, strikes like those of the Citizen Housing workers have gained traction, igniting solidarity from various communities. With over 200 individuals participating, the strikes have slowed operations significantly. Workers on the picket lines are working against not just low wages, but also against the systemic undervaluation of their contributions to the organization. They envision collective resistance as stakeholders and workers align against corporate interests.
Outside of England, strikes are also echoing through the ports of British Columbia and Montreal, where laborers face lockouts and threats against their rights to strike. An ominous chapter of this labor dispute involves the Liberal federal government, which has stepped up to suppress workers’ rights. The Canadian government has been accused of overreaching as it attempts to enforce binding arbitration, effectively stripping workers of their negotiating power.
At major ports, workers are being pushed out due to locking out measures from their employers, who claim disruption to the economy as justification for the anti-democratic measures being taken against the labor force. A statement from the BC Maritime Employers’ Association has been particularly contentious, as they lay blame on unions for failing to maintain smooth operations, when, ironically, it's their actions inciting strikes and protests. Workers are gearing up to counter such measures, armed with public support and solidarity protests scheduled across the country.
Parallels can be drawn from the growing unrest among workers and varied impacts on communities identified with respective causes. The struggles related to Palestine, labor rights, and the concerted push against exploitative practices showcase the interconnectedness of social justice movements around the globe. They signify recognition of labor concerns extending beyond local confines to larger, international dilemmas affecting various communities.
All around the globe, social movements are ramping up their actions, from hunger strikes to pickets, aiming to not only protest against manifest injustices but demand accountability globally. Advocates find solidarity as they unite under shared principles, notwithstanding various geographical borders, moving toward strict ideologies of equity and justice. The question looms: how long can governments turn a blind eye to these movements? More so, as these efforts build steam, what necessary realizations will come forth to aid not just for the disenfranchised, but the broader society?
The time for passive observation is gone; it’s now about collective action advocates who insist their voices carry forward and demand transformations reflect above all—demanding not just awareness, but action.
