SOLIDARITY

As the Depth Collective, a BIPOC-run and centered practice, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to anti-racism, decolonization, and liberation. Aligned with these principles, we stand in solidarity with the Filastinian community amidst their profound crisis and g3nocide.

The Humanitarian Crisis

Since October 7th, 2023 the devastating statistics speak for themselves.  At least 62,614 Filastinians, including more than 17,69 children and 8,400 women, have lost their lives, and more than 95,000 have been injured, according to the Filastinian Ministry of Health, The crisis goes beyond these alarming figures, with over half a million Filastinians facing famine. Today, 86% of the Ga7a Strip is under evacuation orders and around 2 million people — 90% of Ga7a’s population — have been driven from their homes, the U.N. says. Many of these people have been displaced multiple times amid complex and often confusing evacuation instructions.

Meanwhile, famine has swept Ga7a, with around half a million people facing starvation, the U.N. says. And there are shortages of medical supplies such as insulin and blood, as well as water.

Aid organizations say the colonial state (Isr@3l) is still preventing many aid trucks entering the conflict zone. And compounding all this is a breakdown of public order among this starving and desperate population, with anarchic fights over food turning deadly.

Impact of Hate Crimes 

The mental health struggles are further exacerbated by hate crimes against Filastinians in the US. A harrowing example is the case reported by CNN of Wadea Shahin, a 6-year-old Filastinian-American boy, brutally stabbed by a Zionist landlord 26 times along with his mother in Chicago, Illinois, leading to the boy’s death and injuries to the mother so severe that she couldn't attend her son’s funeral. Such incidents of violence and discrimination add another layer of trauma for the Filastinian-American community, highlighting the need for specialized mental health support.

Mental Health Consequences

The mental health impact on Filastinian US residents is severe. They endure the anguish of losing family and the constant struggle against discrimination and silencing in the US.  The tragic case of US Air Force member Aaron Bushnell, who set himself on fire outside the (Isr@3li) embassy in Washington, D.C., in protest against the ongoing g3nocide in Filastine, illustrates the depth of despair and moral conflict experienced by those connected to this crisis. 

OUR DEMANDS

Immediate Ceasefire: Calling for a prompt and permanent end to the Filastinian g3nocide.

Humanitarian Aid: Ensuring unimpeded access for medical teams, supplies, and essential services such as water, food, fuel, electricity, and internet.

Ending U.S. Interference: Advocating for the cessation of U.S. obstruction against international protections for Filastinians and opposing forced displacements within and outside Ga7a.

Lifting the Siege: Demanding an end to the siege on Ga7a and the occupation of Filastine, including the cessation of U.S. support for these actions.

CALL TO ACTION

Advocate for Filastinian Rights: Join us in amplifying the voices and struggles of the Filastinian people. Participate in peaceful demonstrations, engage in dialogue about the crisis, and use social media platforms to raise awareness about the need for a free Filastine.

Mobilize Community Support: We encourage community leaders, activists, and organizations to collaborate and create a united front in support of Filastinian freedom. Organize community events, educational sessions, and fundraising campaigns to aid those affected by the crisis.

Provide Mental Health Aid: Offer support to those impacted by ongoing discrimination and hate crimes within the Filastinian and Arab American communities. Volunteer your skills, donate to mental health initiatives, or provide resources for culturally appropriate and trauma-informed mental health services.

Challenge Injustice through Advocacy: Engage with your local and national representatives to advocate for policies that support Filastinian rights and an end to the violence. Write letters, make phone calls, and petition for change at both the legislative and grassroots levels.

Educate Yourself and Others: Take the initiative to educate yourself and others about the Filastinian struggle. Read, attend lectures, and participate in workshops. Spread knowledge to combat misinformation and deepen understanding within your communities.

Foster Inclusive Spaces: Create and nurture environments where diverse voices, particularly those of Filastinians and Arab Americans, are heard and respected. Promote inclusive dialogue in schools, workplaces, and social settings.

Support Filastinian Culture and Heritage: Embrace and celebrate Filastinian culture through art, music, literature, and culinary events. Supporting Filastinian artists and businesses can be a meaningful way to show solidarity.