Over the past few decades, media outlets around the world have embraced a narrative that solely focuses on either the suffering of Palestinians or their portrayal as violent fundamentalists. Whether it is conflict and restrictions in the West Bank, or the continuing humanitarian disaster in Gaza, it seems that the media has limited Palestine to tragedy and terror. The people, however, students, artists, entrepreneurs, and professionals, an entire generation of regular people, disinterested in politics and building their own paths in life within the confines of an occupation, are continuously overlooked.
While we at Hidden Palestine recognize the necessity of consistently exposing the occupation for what it is, we believe it is also critical to show stories of Palestinian success, achievement, and peaceful resistance. Despite the daily hardships, Palestinian art, educational institutions, and society continue to thrive. Palestinians continue to channel their creativity into developing innovative solutions to their problems and building meaningful organizations. They continue to express pride in their common heritage and their hope for a liberated future by preserving and celebrating their culture and vast traditions. Resisting the occupation of Palestinian lands and exposing the crimes committed against Palestinians is essential, but it should not come at the expense of promoting a place that is still filled with beauty and wonder, and inhabited by a generous, friendly, and joyful people.
Hidden Palestine’s mission is to bring the world to Palestine both virtually and in person, to be a source of knowledge and inspiration, as well as a platform for activism. We hope to fill the gap in media coverage of Palestinian art and culture, and to reveal both Palestine’s hidden beauty, as well as the resilience and strength of its people. Finally, we work to empower and elevate the voices of Palestinians globally, to promote Palestinian tourism and businesses, and to show the world that Palestinian culture and excellence, from architecture and technology, to theatre and dance, continue to flourish today, and will continue to flourish tomorrow.