When it comes to slogans, pro-Palestinian activists should stick to those whose meanings aren’t disputed

As an advocate of protest and activism, I find it disappointing to see the current situation in the Middle East lead to debates about controversial slogans. The disagreement over Israel and Hamas is not only sparking extreme emotions, but it’s also creating a divide on how to even have the argument. In light of this, Cenk Uygur of “The Young Turks” has made a bold effort to remove the slogan “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” from the conversation. He pointed out that this chant is hurtful and counterproductive to protecting Palestinians.

Uygur’s stance is a refreshing call for clarity in messaging. The misuse of slogans can lead to misunderstandings in movements, as we saw with the “Black Lives Matter” movement. Unfortunately, the “from the river to the sea” slogan has led to unnecessary disputes over its meaning and intention. Critics argue that the phrase calls for the removal of Jews from Israel, while supporters, especially on the Palestinian side, see it as an expression of hope for Palestinian unity and autonomy.

Uygur’s critics claim that he should address his own problematic political rhetoric before critiquing others. While calling out the genocide in Gaza, Uygur used inflammatory language to describe Israel’s actions toward Palestinians, leading to accusations of hypocrisy.

The truth is that the current situation in the Middle East is complex and deeply rooted in history. The historical division of the Palestinian territory and the differing interpretations of slogans like “from the river to the sea” make it a sensitive topic that requires thoughtful and respectful discussions. Ultimately, finding a path to peace and resolution in the Middle East will require a deeper understanding and empathy from all involved parties.