Echoes of Gaza: British Arabs Raise Their Voices Through Poetry
“Poetry allows us to articulate our pain and our hope—pain for what’s happening in Gaza, and hope for liberation from oppression.” These powerful words opened a heartfelt poetry evening hosted by Al Arab in UK (AUK) on Saturday, December 30th, in Easton, central London.
The event brought together poets and audiences to stand in solidarity with Gaza, coinciding with the 22nd national demonstration supporting Palestine.
Arab Folk Poetry: A Voice of Resistance
Titled “Arab Folk Poetry and Its Role in Our Lives,” the event was moderated by AUK correspondent Mohamed Al-Himid and featured three leading Arab folk poets in Britain: Hani Al-Jorani, Mohamed Al-Jasser, and Abdullah Al-Kouh. A vibrant and diverse crowd from various Arab communities gathered to celebrate the evening.
Reflecting on the event, Hani Al-Jorani, head of the Arab Folk Poetry Forum in the UK, underscored poetry’s dual purpose as both an artistic and a resistance tool. He highlighted its profound influence on the Palestinian cause, citing the legendary Mahmoud Darwish, whose words immortalized the struggle for freedom.
“Folk poetry is especially powerful because it’s so accessible,” Al-Jorani explained. “That doesn’t mean classical poetry isn’t significant—it has its audience too. But tonight, we had poets, critics, and enthusiasts from all walks of life, united in their love for Palestine.”
Debates and Verses for Palestine
The evening featured poetic debates, with verses alternating between reflections on the Palestinian diaspora and romantic themes from contemporary literature. Mohamed Al-Himid brought his own poetic flair, captivating the audience with recitations of his very own folk poems.
Mohamed Al-Jasser, a board member of the Arab Folk Poetry Forum, commended the event’s organization and the consistent efforts of AUK to host cultural gatherings. He highlighted the importance of such events in connecting Arab communities to their linguistic and cultural roots, especially for younger generations living abroad.
“This evening was a nostalgic return to the traditions and customs we left behind,” Al-Jasser said. “It engaged young people, inspiring them to delve into the richness of the Arabic language through folk poetry genres like Abouya and Nabati.”
Gaza at the Heart of the Poems
Abdullah Al-Kouh, renowned for his participation in Million’s Poet Reality TV Show, emphasised that the Palestinian cause remains central to his work.
“The Palestinian struggle is always present in our poetry,” he stated. “We stand with our brothers and sisters in Gaza through our words, showing the world their resilience. Events like these are vital and must continue here in Britain.”
Al Arab in UK (AUK) continues its mission to strengthen cultural identity within Arab communities by organising literary and cultural events. These gatherings not only celebrate the richness of Arab heritage but also shine a light on crucial issues like solidarity with Palestine, creating spaces for meaningful connection and expression.
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