In the wake of the genocide of the Palestinian people, Cartoonists for Palestine is an international volunteer movement of comic book artists that have come together to bring to life the personal and lived experiences of Palestinians. They do this by collecting individual comic strips that reject Islamophobia, antisemitism, chauvinism and all kinds of hate that have contributed to the genocide in an online archive and various printed materials that people from around the world can access for free or purchase if they wish.
The comics are gathered and distributed to counter any propaganda material that has been made to dehumanize Palestinians and justify the genocide. To further showcase the movement's commitment, all proceeds from comic book sales are directly sent to grassroots relief organizations operating on-site in Palestine, such as Medical Aid for Palestinians, ANERA, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF), and many more. All this is why Cartoonists for Palestine is relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
The comics collated by Cartoonists for Palestine take many forms and genres, comprising very diverse art styles. One standout project is Mutual Aid in Gaza by Christine Shruggs, a rather lengthy series of infographics that outline the average person’s life under the Israeli occupation of Palestine that was done in collaboration with Liberation Through Mutual Aid. The series covers everything from citizen-led aid distribution movements to healthcare conditions for birthing mothers. It gives people visual aids to help them quickly understand the on-the-ground circumstances in Palestine. Other comics such as I Was Born touch upon the international Black and Brown solidarity that has been gathered for Palestine, meanwhile pieces such as Birds create visual metaphors that can help explain the gravity of the occupation to children while omitting graphic depictions of violence.
Cartoonists for Palestine is a powerful international initiative that uses the universal language of comics to amplify Palestinian voices, counter dehumanizing propaganda and shed light on the ongoing genocide. By collecting and distributing diverse stories and art styles, the movement offers a nuanced, accessible perspective on life under occupation, from grassroots relief efforts to healthcare struggles and international solidarity. The project educates global audiences and provides tangible support, with all proceeds going to grassroots organizations aiding Palestinians on the ground. Cartoonists for Palestine exemplifies the transformative potential of art in fostering empathy, combating hate and advocating for justice.
Find out more about Cartoonists for Palestine and their initiatives by checking their website www.cartoonistsforpalestine.org or Instagram @cartoonistsforpalestine.