Today marks one year since the martyrdom of Dr. Refaat Alareer, co-founder of the 16th October Media Group and a distinguished Palestinian academic, writer, and poet. A luminary in his field, Dr. Alareer was a professor of English literature at the Islamic University of Gaza, where he inspired generations of students with his profound insights, critical thinking, and unwavering love for Palestine. His teaching went beyond the classroom, fostering a sense of cultural pride and resistance among his students while emphasizing the power of storytelling as a tool for liberation.
Dr. Alareer was widely known for editing “Gaza Writes Back,” an anthology of short stories written by young Palestinians. This work stands as a powerful testament to the resilience, creativity, and humanity of Palestinians under occupation and blockade. Through this collection, he gave voice to the silenced, highlighting the everyday struggles, dreams, and sacrifices of those living in Gaza. His literary contributions were not only a reflection of his own experiences but also a clarion call for justice and the right to self-determination.
Beyond academia, Dr. Alareer was a beacon of hope, using his platform to amplify the stories of his people and expose the brutal realities of the occupation. He was known for his intellectual sharpness, humility, and deep love for Palestine, which resonated in every word he spoke and wrote.
As a co-founder of the 16th October Group, Dr. Alareer was instrumental in countering disinformation and exposing the realities of life under Israeli occupation. The group became a critical platform for documenting the injustices faced by Palestinians, amplifying their stories to a global audience, and challenging narratives that sought to dehumanize them. His eloquence, intellect, and passion made him a trusted voice in the struggle for Palestinian freedom.
Dr. Alareer’s loss is deeply felt not only in Palestine but also among advocates of justice worldwide. He was a devoted father, a loving husband, and a pillar of his community. Despite the hardships of life in Gaza, he remained steadfast in his commitment to truth, justice, and the preservation of Palestinian culture and identity.
The soil of the Holy Land of Palestine will always be enriched and rejuvenated by her heroic sons and daughters, and Dr. Refaat Alareer is no exception. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, the students he mentored, and the countless individuals inspired by his work around the globe.
On this solemn day, we honor his life, his sacrifices, and his contributions to the Palestinian cause. His memory lives on through his students, his writings, and all who continue the fight for a free and just Palestine.
May Allah have mercy on him and grant him the highest ranks in Jannah. Dr. Refaat Alareer’s legacy will forever inspire those who believe in justice, freedom, and the enduring spirit of resistance.
