In a show of solidarity with the Palestinian community and a call for an end to the Israel-Hamas conflict, a group of lesbian activists known as The Dyke Project has taken a unique approach in London. They replaced advertisements on public transport across the city with heartfelt stories of LGBTQ+ individuals in Palestine. This initiative, aimed at raising awareness and support for the Palestinian cause, has garnered attention across the city.
Stories of Resilience Amid Conflict
The Dyke Project, consisting of trans, cis, and non-binary lesbians and queers, strategically targeted Transport for London’s network. Their posters, which tell moving stories, were prominently displayed on the Victoria line and the London Overground. These stories were sourced from Queering the Map, a community-generated digital map of queer experiences, and were accompanied by messages of solidarity.
Among the stories featured on the posters were powerful messages from LGBTQ+ people in Palestine, such as “We are here and we are queer.” Another poignant message read, “I’ve always imagined you and me sitting out in the sun, hand in hand, free at last.” These stories serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of adversity.
A Call for Solidarity and Unity
Jess Elliott, a member of The Dyke Project, emphasized that this advert hack aimed to remind the LGBTQ+ community that their freedom is intertwined with the liberation of others. Elliott stated, “None of us are free until all of us are, and we will not let our struggle be used to distract from the violent genocide of others.” This action underscores the importance of standing together for justice and equality.
The posters were strategically placed near LGBTQ+ venues, including Dalston Superstore, Zodiac, The Glory pub, Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club, and in New Cross and Hackney. They will remain on display for the next few days, continuing to draw attention to the cause.
Global Support for Palestinian Liberation
The Dyke Project is not alone in their call for solidarity. Over 520 LGBTQ+ organizations, along with individuals from around the world, have signed an open letter expressing their support for the Palestinian liberation movement. The letter urges governments worldwide to demand an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of aid into Gaza through all possible routes, as well as an end to the occupation of Palestine.
The Dyke Project, formed to counter narratives that pit trans people and lesbians against each other, is making a powerful statement through their actions, advocating for justice, and highlighting the importance of unity within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.