A Long Tradition of Protest for Palestine
Khalid Abdalla remembers his first protest clearly. As a child, he sat on his father’s shoulders, chanting for Palestine in 1980s Glasgow. Today, the Egyptian British actor continues his activism, using red carpets and award shows to highlight the Gaza crisis. At the Crown premiere in LA, he boldly wrote “Ceasefire Now” on his hand.
“UK artists speak out for Gaza” in bold and creative ways while politicians stay mostly silent. Abdalla says he now sees people standing with him, not against him.
Despite risks of backlash, Abdalla believes it’s essential to keep speaking out. “I want to make sure my grandchildren don’t fight the same battles,” he said.
Speaking Up, No Matter the Cost
Veteran British-Jewish comedian Alexei Sayle also refuses to stay silent. In December, his viral alternative Christmas message criticized political leaders for their inaction during Israel’s bombing of Gaza. He believes silence today is as dangerous as it was during other genocides in history.
Sayle feels protected due to his age and Jewish identity. But he acknowledges that younger voices in art and comedy face greater risks. “Artists always held the mirror to power,” he said, calling today’s government morally bankrupt.
Art and Activism Combine for Change
Sayle and Abdalla will join 20 others at the “Voices of Solidarity” fundraiser for Palestine on July 19. The lineup includes big names like Paloma Faith and actor Juliet Stevenson. Together, they aim to use performance and protest to raise awareness and funds.
A recent survey found 55% of Britons now oppose Israel’s actions in Gaza. Experts say people are turning to artists, not politicians, for moral leadership. While artists can’t change policies alone, they inspire the movements that do.
“Is it making a difference? Absolutely,” said Abdalla. “We’ve seen a shift in public awareness. It’s up to us to build on it.”
