Students for Justice in Palestine Society: Vice President

Asalam ailakum! I’m Mlak, a first year studying architecture. Though I’ve only been here for a few months, I have been engaged with the work of SJP since the start of my time here at UCL. Growing up in a Muslim Arab household, the Palestinian plight has been on our minds and hearts for years. However, I was always told to “keep the conversation at home" and to “be careful” when advocating for their rights. Unfortunately, for many (beyond the Arab Muslim community), this experience is a universal one. In my previous academic environments, amplifying the voices of Palestinians has always been frowned upon.

When transitioning into a university environment, the diversity and passion I saw in the SJP society diminished all my previous doubts. The concerns about whether I, amongst many, will ever truly be able to be a means of change, were quickly dropped only a week into my time at UCL, when the aggression against the Palestinians escalated in October. My university experience has become synonymous with the dire need of advocating for Palestinian rights. 

By spending my time as a media team volunteer, I’ve worked along side students from a range of faculties to create powerful infographics and merchandise to show that there should be no shame in showing Palestinian solidarity. I am prepared to dedicate my time and energy, collaborating with the rest of the committee to use our voices in place of those who have been stripped of it.