In the heart of Palestine, a powerful movement is sweeping across the land, as hiking gains popularity as a form of resistance and a means of reconnecting with the country's rich heritage. With every step, Palestinians are rediscovering their homeland, unveiling its hidden treasures, and forging connections that transcend the boundaries imposed by occupation.
Hiking is on the rise in Palestine, a phenomenon that mirrors the growth of the number of avid hikers. These trekkers are no ordinary outdoor enthusiasts; they are Palestinians seeking to break free from the constraints of the ongoing occupation. They're on a quest to alleviate the burdens of life under siege, to explore the depth of their history, and to resist the suffocating presence of the occupying forces.
The issue of Palestinian prisoners is a constant crisis, casting a long shadow over the lives of Palestinians in their homeland. Many are steadfast in their refusal to accept the occupation as a fait accompli, and they resist it with tenacity, each in their own unique way. Some engage in active resistance operations, while others explore innovative forms of resistance. Many simply wait, hoping for change on the horizon.
The hiking phenomenon has seen a surge in popularity, with a special focus on Palestine's natural, historical, and environmental landmarks. This unique form of resistance not only strengthens the resilience of those involved but also helps to preserve the essence of Palestinian identity by revealing the hidden gems of their homeland.
Khalid Abu Ali, an environmental researcher, emphasizes the recent surge in interest, especially among the youth. He explains that these hikes have been inspired by a growing awareness of the importance of safeguarding their land from Israeli colonization. As a relatively modern form of tourism, hiking has piqued the interest of a diverse group of young people, local communities, and various institutions.
The "My Homeland" team has played a pivotal role in this hiking movement. Mari Atallah, an activist from the team, says, "I joined the team more than two years ago, and we have toured the paths several times in different parts of our beautiful and wonderful country. We explored the abandoned villages and were guided by knowledgeable individuals who shared the history and social significance of each region. This not only strengthens our understanding of Palestinian history but also nurtures camaraderie and brotherhood among team members."
Adnan Abbas, a dedicated member of the "My Homeland" team, shares that the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily slowed hiking activities and separated participants from different regions. "During the pandemic, we missed the Jerusalemites, our customary Jerusalem cake, and the traditional team breakfast. We also missed the companionship of our fellow citizens in Israel, who used to accompany us as volunteers, introducing us to their abandoned and destroyed villages."
Hiking has become a symbol of unity for Palestinians, bridging the divide imposed by the occupation. Abbas elaborates, "In each hike over the past eight weeks, which we used to begin before dawn, we were welcomed by one or more guides from the local villages. They shared their insights, hosted us, and joined us for meals in their fields or homes. These excursions revive the historical connection between the land and its people."
May Abdelhafiz Ismail Al-Mughitha, an associate professor in Genetics and Molecular Biology at Al-Khalil University, has been a passionate hiker for nearly a decade. She highlights the importance of hiking in strengthening the connection between Palestinian youth and their homeland. Hiking provides a unique opportunity to embrace the diverse natural aspects, from botany to zoology, geology to geography, and climate. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle and offers a chance for like-minded individuals to interact, enriching their knowledge and experiences.
Naman Al-Ashqar, a hiking guide, further underscores the shift in cultural patterns that hiking represents. He explains, "The concept of hiking is relatively new and challenges our reliance on cars and other means of transportation. It has reignited people's connection to the land and encourages collective movement."
Imad Safi, an activist, shares his perspective: "Some of the best days are when we go hiking, traveling through our villages and regions in our beloved homeland. These journeys allow us to explore our mountains and valleys and get to know areas we had never seen before."
Raba Atallah, a hiking enthusiast, poignantly concludes: "Every time, I am amazed by how many beautiful things are close to us that we don't know in our country. We are living in the midst of the beauty of our land, the kindness of our people, and the depth of our history."
