Christina Khayat | Campus Reporter
In a quiet corner within the American University of Beirut, a simple yet impactful event unfolded, dedicated to honoring the resilient spirit of the Palestinian people. As part of Palestine Week, the Arab Group for the Protection of Nature (APN) brought forth a profound symbol of solidarity: the planting of Olive Trees.
Held at a place where sustainability takes center stage, AUB’s Environmental and Sustainable Development Unit was the perfect place for this event. Located in lower campus, the ESDU is a solar powered building acting as an interdisciplinary Research and Development center specialized in community development and sustainable agriculture. Feeling as if they weren’t even on the same campus that is usually overrun with bustling students, attendees were transported to a place where agriculture, sustainability and even peace is valued.
The APN Organization, known for its commitment to environmental conservation and humanitarian causes, orchestrated this event in alignment with its core values. With a mission to promote awareness and orchestrate action for nature and humanity, the association brought together students, faculty, and community members to stand in solidarity with Palestine through planting.
At the start of the gathering, a moment of silence was shared to reflect and remember the struggles faced by the Palestinian people. The unplanted little olive trees sitting right beside the group of attendees serve as a symbol deeply rooted in Palestinian culture and heritage, a beacon of inspiration and hope to those who want to make a change.
The event’s organizer emphasized the importance of action whether it be in words or in deeds, echoing the sentiment of ‘aalem and aamal,’ urging everyone to contribute what they can to alleviate the suffering of those in Palestine. To solidify this message, plaques with quotes by famous Palestinian poets like Mahmoud Darwich were hung on the olive trees, a testament to the unwavering support extended to the Palestinian cause.
Watering the olive trees was another significant moment at the event as it shows the effort and care required to nurture hope and resilience in the face of adversity. As children aided in planting and watering the trees it felt as if hope was being passed from one generation to the next.
Amidst the activities, traditional Palestinian dishes such as Dahdah, Yansooniya and Msakhan adorned the tables, each bite a testament to a culture of people who refuse to be silenced. Attendees enjoyed the platters with admiration of not only the taste of the food, but the essence of Palestinian culture and tradition woven into it. Culinary delights, the olive tree, traditional clothing, and its people is what keeps Palestinian hope and promise alive.
As the newly planted olive trees stood tall among the already flourishing nature of the AUB campus, whispers of resilience and an unwavering bond to Palestine is embraced. With this world’s division, the simple act of planting trees serves as a reminder that, together, a future of peace and solidarity is possible.