‘Preserving Palestinian culture has become part of my struggle’
“Preserving Palestinian culture has become part of my struggle,” said Samira Al-Wazir, a Palestinian woman living in Benghazi for more than 50 years. “I have passed down this cultural heritage to my children and grandchildren.”
IBTISAM AXFIR
Benghazi- Samira Al-Wazir, a Palestinian woman living in Benghazi, the second-most-populous city in Libya, has preserved Palestinian culture.
Samira Al-Wazir moved from Gaza to Benghazi in 1972 after her marriage. Although she has lived in Benghazi for more than 50 years, she never loses her love for her country.
“I completed my secondary education in Gaza. I moved to Benghazi after getting married,” she told NuJINHA. “There are many difficulties of living in a different country because you have to learn their traditions and customs. Since the people of Benghazi are so friendly, I adapted to this country quickly.”
Education had created positive changes in the life of Samira Al-Wazir. “Teachers do not only teach you something but also build your personality. Although I have lived in Benghazi for years, I never forget my culture or identity. In Benghazi, people can easily communicate with each other and practice their traditions and customs freely. I feel like I live in Gaza, I never feel like I am a stranger here.”
‘Preserving Palestinian culture has become part of my struggle’
Samira Al-Wazi tells what the Palestinian people have experienced to her children and grandchildren through stories. “I have also passed down the Palestinian traditions and customs to my children and grandchildren. Preserving Palestinian culture has become part of my struggle. All Palestinian people are responsible for protecting Palestinian identity. Preserving Palestinian cultural heritage is a weapon in the struggle for identity.”
Samira Al-Wazi felt helpless when Israel launched its attacks on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. “I felt helpless during the attacks on Gaza. But the resistance of the Palestinian people against the attacks has taught everyone a new lesson. My friends in Gaza told me that 70 percent of the city has been completely destroyed. Many could no longer recognize their homes because the city is in ruins. But they never lose hope. I always support the people in Gaza by joining the activities carried out by women's organizations and initiatives in Benghazi. I believe that every effort can make a difference.”