The colonisation of Palestinian land and the displacement and ethnic cleansing of its people is deeply intertwined with the eradication of Palestinian cultural heritage, knowledge, artistic, oral and traditional practices. Resisting or speaking out against cultural erasure results in further violent persecution and censorship.

 

   These fourteen demands are collated by The Freedom Theatre and Artists On the Frontline in response to the question “What can we do?” often asked when artists are attacked or Palestine is on the front page of the news. The aim is to provide a framework for international artists, activists and cultural organisations to mobilise around and the values that should be embedded in any action. These demands represent our perspective but echo the call for action from across the Palestinian arts sector and are embedded in the decades-long work, research and action of artists, academics, activists, journalists, protest movements and human rights groups.

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   Each demand highlights a different area of Palestinian cultural genocide, censorship and attacks on Palestinian artists and their allies, with a particular focus on Gaza, West Bank, 48 and in countries that fund, arm and support Israel. Links point you toward the rich individual and collective knowledge of others. We also provide personal testimonies from artists, that can be read publicly as part of the project The Revolution's Promise.

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     Each demand includes examples of actions people worldwide have taken, celebrating what has been achieved and inspiring this present call to action. The examples cited are independent of each other and us and largely focused on responses in countries that are funding and supporting the oppression of Palestinians.

      The focus here is on Palestinian artists and culture, but please note that many of the issues affect all Palestinians and other artists globally. We hope this contributes to the larger movement for equality, justice and liberation for Palestinians and all worldwide. Whether on the streets, in direct action or on the stage, we urge you to use arts to hold power to account and speak out against the root causes of injustice.

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      Change is not stagnant; this call to action will continue evolving as our understanding grows and we continue to be inspired by the Palestinian and global movement.

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We encourage you to use these demands for statements, protests or actions.