One girl became the face of the struggle for freedom in Iran. The name of the young girl shot and killed by a sniper bullet is Neda. The video of the Iranian hero taken directly after she was shot horrified the world to the brutality of the Iranian government.
Seven years ago yesterday, Rachel Corrie was crushed to death by an Israeli bulldozer while nonviolently protesting the demolition of Palestinian homes in Rafah, Gaza Strip. Here also the world was horrified. Her family is suing the State of Israel and the defense minister for wrongful death.
I read a memorial diary to Rachel on DKOS yesterday and was saddened by the disrespect shown to a true American hero working to spread our nation’s highest ideals abroad.
Rachel Corrie represents what is great about America. The ideal of freedom and human rights is not just for Americans, but is something Americans need to support throughout the world.
The memorial diary was hijacked, as is often the case on DKOS. One Israel supporter referred to Rachel as:
"the poor little white girl" merely being used to drive a wedge between Israel and the US.
Others, including myself, have been inspired by Rachel for her courage to stand up for those oppressed in other countries and stand up to the US government when it doesn't strive toward its own ideals. It is people like her that bring world respect to the character of the American people, in the highest sense. Here are some comments you likely missed from the hijacked diary.
The courage and humanity of this young woman is overwhelming.
Rachel Corrie was a dedicated idealist who practiced the free speech and non-violence in which she believed on behalf of oppressed Palestinians.
The name "Rachel Corrie" always leaves a lump in my throat. My heart aches for her courage-her passion-and her committment. The world is indeed a darker place.................
actually, the world is a much much brighter place because of rachel.