Pilar & Yassmin
Pilar and Yassmin are 3rd and 4th generation Peruvian-Palestinians, respectively. They currently live in Peru. Despite their lifelong diaspora, they have remained intimately connected to their Palestinian identities and the Palestinian cause. They are extremely well informed on the issue and take time in their personal lives to inform those around them and be active in the Pro-Palestinian movement in Peru. They were the first interviewees of the Voices from the Palestinian Diaspora project, and have my utmost gratitude for their patience and willingness to share their testimonies with me :). -Lauren
Their Palestinian IDentities and Life in the Diaspora
This video is an introduction to Pilar and Yassmin and the ways they relate to their Palestinian heritage. Additionally, they discuss the way being Palestinian affects their lives in Lima, emphasizing Zionism in mainstream media as a major issue. They also share about the public becoming more informed in light of Israel’s most recent ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Comparing immigrant experiences, the role of religion, and remaining engaged
In this segment, Pilar and Yassmin respond to a prompt about whether being Palestinian in the diaspora feels different from the experience of other immigrant groups. They then get into the role of religion, specifically talking about empathy with Muslims and feeling a sense of responsibility, as Palestinian Christians, to stand up against Islamophobia. They also discuss remaining engaged and avoiding grief fatigue.
Messages for the world and are things changing
Here, Pilar gives a message to Joe Biden and other supporters of Israel’s genocide and occupation. Yassmin talks to the younger generation. Both discuss whether they believe things are changing and will change for the better for Palestine.
Being raised Palestinian, Wanting to go, Dreams of a Free Palestine
In this video, Pilar and Yassmin discuss being raised with knowledge of their heritage and the Palestinian cause. They especially emphasize food as a medium for cultural preservation. They then discuss their deep desires to go to Palestine and how the constant conflict and aggression from Israel make that very difficult. They then share their dreams for a Free Palestine.