Are we becoming soulless?

By Mozafer Rajabali

Some people might call it a political stunt, and some may see it as an exemplary model, but that is not the argument Cynthia McKinney’s actions bring to the table. Rather, it brings to light the injustice faced by so many innocent people who aren’t even perceived as innocent. Stalin’s quote that “one death is a tragedy, a million is a statistic” puts into perspective this whole scenario. McKinney wrote a letter from an Israeli jail, stating that she was a human rights activist and was trying to take medical supplies, building supplies and crayons for children. She further goes on to say that the doctors from Jordan and Norway told her that Gaza has become a “weapons testing laboratory” for the Israelis. If this holds any truth, what on Earth happened to human dignity, why are we, the general pubic still not coming forward to raise our voices, sign petitions, participate in demonstrations.

Cynthia McKinney is amongst many people who are wrongfully imprisoned. Abdel Razik was held in prison in Sudan under US law, but the Canadian human rights activists protested day and night until his bail was produced. However, until today the Canadian citizen remains on the list of terrorist suspects for the US.

Not very long ago did Amnesty International come out and publicly state that Israel had committed war crimes in Gaza. This was somewhat shocking to the international community, because of Israel’s prestigious status with the US, and yet senior political figures remain quiet. On a personal note, I thought it was about time that an international organization shed some light on these war crimes perpetrated in Gaza. Hamas was always criticized as mischievous, causing chaos and taking lives, however they were in reality only part of the problem.

Come to Iraq, and the bringing down of the great Saddam Hussein was considered a massive coup by the western media as it happened. Not until later was it discovered that the reason to enter the country was merely an excuse. Until today chaos seems to reign in Iraq, and peacefully earning any livelihood for the local people is somewhat difficult.

My question is to myself, and the youth of today. Where were we while these injustices were taking place? Why can’t we prevent them? We are by far the most motivated group of people on this planet, and need to do something about it.

Mozafer Rajabali is a student who wants potential to be recognized in the most deprived of countries.