The Freedom Zone
By Noor Khalil
The encampment at UCSD was full of hope and solidarity. A highlight of my entire time here at UCSD, Spring quarter 2024, students across many campuses and at UCSD, launched an encampment to demand the university to divest from companies complicit in Genocide. This essay reflects on the powerful sense of community, love, and culture that emerged during this encampment, leaving a lasting impact on all.
Community. Love. Culture. Happiness. These are just a few words to describe the encampment at UCSD. The encampment was a place where I felt safe. People from different cultures, different religions, and different backgrounds all came together for one reason: Palestine. Seeing all these people stand up for my country brought tears to my eyes every time I would walk up to the camp. To be able to send my relatives in Palestine pictures of our camp was extremely empowering and motivating for me. Every morning, I would wake up with a sense of purpose and excitement, knowing that I was part of something bigger than myself. The encampment was more than just a protest; it was a family. We shared meals, stories, and dreams. We laughed together, cried together, and supported each other in ways that I had never experienced before. The bonds we formed were unbreakable, forged in the fires of our shared passion and commitment to justice. At night, the camp would come alive with music, poetry, and speeches. Voices rang out in unison, chanting for freedom and equality. The air was thick with hope and determination, and I felt a renewed sense of strength with every word spoken. The encampment was a living, breathing testament to the power of unity and solidarity.
The diversity of the encampment was one of its greatest strengths. People from all walks of life came together, each bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences. This melting pot of cultures and ideas created a rich tapestry of support and understanding. It was a reminder that, despite our differences, we are all connected by our shared humanity and our desire for a better world. The encampment became a symbol of resilience and resistance. It stood as a beacon of hope for those of us fighting for Palestine, a reminder that we are not alone in our struggle. The friendships I made and the lessons I learned during this time will stay with me forever, guiding me in my continued efforts to advocate for justice and peace. Leaving the encampment was bittersweet. While I was sad to see it end, I was filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the experience and the people I met along the way. The encampment at UCSD was more than just a temporary gathering; it was a transformative journey that changed my life and strengthened my resolve to fight for what is right.
In the end, the encampment was not just about Palestine; it was about the power of community, love, and culture to bring about change. It was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing together in the face of adversity. And for that, I will be forever grateful.