"We are unarmed. We are no threat to you. Please do not shoot."
— Rachel Corrie
Who Was Rachel Corrie?
Rachel Corrie was born on April 10, 1979, in Olympia, Washington, USA. From a young age, she showed a deep sense of compassion and commitment to social justice. She studied at The Evergreen State College, where she became actively involved in humanitarian causes. Rachel’s passion for advocating for the oppressed led her to join the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a group dedicated to nonviolent resistance against military occupation.
A Voice for Justice
Rachel Corrie, an American activist and peace advocate, stood in front of a bulldozer in the Gaza Strip on March 16, 2003, in an attempt to prevent the demolition of Palestinian homes. Her last words, "We are unarmed. We are no threat to you. Please do not shoot.", echo as a powerful plea for justice, a cry against oppression, and a reminder of the courage it takes to stand against injustice.
Her Legacy Lives On
Rachel was only 23 years old when she lost her life, but her legacy continues to inspire people across the world. She traveled from the U.S. to Palestine, driven by a deep sense of moral duty to protect the lives of those caught in conflict. She believed in non-violent resistance and used her presence as a shield for innocent civilians facing oppression.
"I am not really interested in blaming any individual. I just want to know that when I go home, there will be something left of Palestine."
— Rachel Corrie
A Symbol of Resistance
Today, Rachel Corrie is remembered as a symbol of resistance and humanity. Her story has been told through books, plays, and documentaries. Her parents, Craig and Cindy Corrie, continue her mission through the Rachel Corrie Foundation for Peace and Justice, which advocates for human rights and justice worldwide.
Rachel Corrie (1979-2003) - A Voice That Will Never Be Silenced
What Can We Do?
Rachel’s sacrifice urges us to ask ourselves: What can we do to stand against injustice? Here are some ways we can honor her legacy:
- Educate ourselves about global human rights issues.
- Support organizations that fight for justice and peace.
- Raise awareness through art, literature, and activism.
- Stand in solidarity with oppressed communities around the world.
Rachel’s words and actions remind us that courage is not the absence of fear but the determination to act despite it. Her memory will continue to light the path for those who seek justice, peace, and humanity.