Gaza. Lebanon. JIM. AND ME.

Almost a year has passed since the onset of unprecedented destruction in Gaza, and genocide of the Palestinian people, and now, attention shifts back to Lebanon. The story seems all too familiar, at least for the Lebanese, a recurring nightmare of conflict that traces back through 2006, 2000, 1982, and even 1978. And many years in between. History repeats itself, relentlessly and ruthlessly.

In my book, “You’re Already Dead,” I explore themes of perseverance and resilience through my father’s journey from Lebanon to Canada, leaving as a young man amidst an approaching cloud of civil war. These concepts are deeply rooted in Lebanon’s collective experience, particularly in South Lebanon, where my father was born and now, where his final resting place is. This region embodies the strength found in enduring through seemingly insurmountable challenges.

I was born and raised here in Canada, and as you’ve probably gathered from my previous blog posts, growing up in Smoky Lake near Edmonton contrasted my bicultural identity. However, life experience has taught me that bicultural identity is bound by a single humanity. This realization has deeply influenced my views on the ongoing conflicts in my father’s homeland and the role Canada should play on the world stage.

Yet today, as we witness another cycle of Israeli aggression, there’s a noticeable silence from those expected to lead. Canada, traditionally seen as a global peacekeeper, has seemingly stepped back, displaying a disconcerting indifference to the escalating violence—this is truly not surprising after a year of shameful inaction.

Moreover, not just the government has been silent. Over the past year, positions taken by the official opposition have not merely supported Israel but seem to have endorsed actions that contribute to the ongoing impunity. As these political figures prepare for the next election, their statements influence Canadian policy and shape international perceptions and actions.

In early November 2023, as the true scale of the atrocities in Gaza began to unfold, I was moved to act. While my efforts alone might not change the world, they stem from a conviction shared by many that we must foster a Canada that stands up for human rights and looks out for each other, both here at home and abroad—as we have always done.

The last time we took a family trip while my father was alive was in 2001, a year after the Israeli aggression of 2000 and their subsequent ending of their decades-long occupation of south Lebanon. Reflecting on those memories during such tumultuous times underscores the importance of our roots and the impact of historical events on personal lives.

The debate on Lebanon’s future, particularly regarding groups like Hezbollah, is complex. However, if history has taught us anything, it is that solutions imposed by outsiders—like previous interventions by Israel—do not bring peace but rather prolong suffering and lead to the emergence of new threats, or “bogeymen,” in South Lebanon. The people of Lebanon must be the architects of their own future, free from the destructive influence of external powers.

The last time I went with my dad, it wasn’t in a way I’m sure he could never have imagined. His final return to Lebanon to be laid to rest in the mountains of South Lebanon not only reiterates the strong ties we maintain with our homeland but also reflects the values of heritage and human dignity that we, as Canadians, should uphold and advocate for globally, including recognizing Palestinian statehood as part of a broader commitment to justice and peace in the region.

As Canadians, we must reassess our role on the global stage. Are we the peacekeepers we once prided ourselves on being, or have we forsaken this role for political convenience? Our actions and the actions of our leaders not only shape our identity but also our legacy. It is crucial that we advocate for a return to genuine peacekeeping, pushing for policies that respect the sovereignty and dignity of nations like Lebanon, which are deeply intertwined with the lives of many Canadians, including myself.

Drawing from the well of courage and resilience that my father exemplified, we must strive to influence our leaders and our community. Enough of history repeating itself; we need not repeat its mistakes but learn from them, creating a future where peace and respect for all nations prevail.

Thank you for reading.