Women's History Month: Muna El-Kurd

Writer: Kawthar Alasaad

Muna El-Kurd is an activist of resilient Palestinian roots. Muna's story started with her detainment by the Israeli force in the spring of 2021. In the spring of 2021, the Israeli government planned a forced removal from the homes of the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, Muna's neighborhood.

Tensions in Sheikh Jarrah spilled over into the surrounding Old City, where Israeli forces targeted worshippers at the al-Aqsa mosque, prompting Hamas terrorists in Gaza to fire rockets into Israel. The Israeli force became more violent toward Palestinian citizens, terrorizing individuals and their homes.

Muna's detainment was due to her sturdy voice usage to advocate for innocent Palestinian lives. As Muna used social media to bring awareness, the Palestinian movement vastly reached the audience globally, causing heat towards the Israeli government. This caused the Israeli government to attempt to silence Muna and her brother, Mohammed, by arresting them.

After the release of Muna from the hands of the Israeli force, Muna continued to speak up and advocate for her land and people. Soon, Muna's story became unforgettable, a symbol of resilient Palestinian blood bringing hope and life to the Palestinian people. Muna's voice shook the grounds of Sheikh Jarrah and continues to do so.