Image Source: The New York Times
Local – “Take Israeli genocide products off the shelves,” said Nasiha Soomar, a South African businesswoman, law student and executive member of the South Africa Palestine Movement (SAPM).
She argued that consumer action is still one of the most effective ways ordinary South Africans can contribute to the global struggle for Palestinian freedom. Soomar explained that SAPM has built its activism around consistent, peaceful, community-driven actions.
One of the movement’s flagship initiatives, Fridays for Palestine, takes place weekly to ensure that Palestine remains visible in public consciousness and to demand accountability from institutions and corporations.
She said the gatherings are not only about protest but also about sustaining solidarity and resilience.
“I’d like to firstly highlight our Fridays for Palestine, which is a weekly grassroots action to keep Palestine in public consciousness and demand accountability.”
The weekly pickets, held in cities and towns across the country, have drawn steady public support. Soomar said the response from ordinary South Africans shows that these demonstrations are connecting with people in meaningful ways. From passing motorists to pedestrians, many express gratitude and solidarity.
“Whether whichever street corner we are on, we always get hoots from the cars, or we get people coming up to us and telling us thank you for doing this.”
Rising Above Hatred
Beyond weekly pickets, SAPM has coordinated community events, including women’s cycling initiatives. These events combine social activity with public advocacy but have also faced hostility.
Soomar recalled one incident in which young girls carrying a Palestinian flag were verbally attacked, an experience she said highlighted the persistence of intolerance.
“It’s so shocking to see how even children that are exercising their right to peaceful expression were targeted by hate… instead of breaking their spirits, she strengthened their resolve.”
Despite such challenges, Soomar emphasised the movement’s commitment to dialogue and education. She said many South Africans are not fully aware of what Zionism entails or of the realities faced by Palestinians under occupation.
“Of course, we’re always open to dialogue. We want to talk to people and understand why they believe in Zionism… a lot of them don’t really actually know what’s happening in Israel.”
