7 Ways Lebanese & American Protests Are More Similar Than You Think
Across the end of 2019 and the start of 2020, countless protests have broken out worldwide. From Hong Kong to London, activists and demonstrators have emerged fighting for a plethora of causes.
The racial justice protests in the United States and the anti-corruption protests in Lebanon are two examples.
While they may be occurring in very different parts of the world under different circumstances, there are in fact many ways they can be seen as common struggles , particularly in this context, the Lebanese and the American ones.
#1 Both are fighting for systemic and institutional change
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In Lebanon:
Lebanese are protesting against corruption and politicized sectarianism, which have impeded the country’s progress and propelled it to its current detriment.
While there is no official figurehead for the protests, common requests include fixing the corrupt and divided political system, having more technocratic members within governmental institutions, and the actual enforcement of the Penal Code against widespread offences like bribery.
In America:
A parallel fight against the system is ensuing, but with a focus on racial justice. Protesters are fighting against what they consider an "inherently racist criminal justice system" that has allowed for widespread police brutality, over-incarceration, and unfair sentencing against black and colored people.
#2 Both have clashed with military and police forces
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Both protests have experienced agitation with police and the military.
In Lebanon:
There were often complaints about the excess police force in cases where protesters closed roads and the police and military would reopen them. Rubber bullets, batons, and more have been used against protesters, which has resulted in injuries , including some losing an eye.
In America:
Protesters have claimed the police are escalating situations and are being unnecessarily forceful, using tear gas and other weapons against the civilians protesting.
#3 The military/police have shown solidarity with protesters
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There remain military and police personnel in both countries who have shown solidarity and connection with the protesters’ fight.
In Lebanon:
Numerous military members have shown solidarity with the protesters and their fight for a better Lebanon, as they and their families are also enduring the effect of the compounding crises.
In America:
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Many police officers have expressed a connection and agreement with the protesters and many have taken a knee alongside them.
#4 Both are spearheaded by marginalized communities
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In Lebanon:
People are struggling to even put food on their plate as prices soar and the economy tanks, which can be directly attributed to the continuously corrupt actions of the government over decades.
While the protests are for all Lebanese who want to see their country reach its true potential, they are foremost for the poor and marginalized communities who have struggled greatly while the corrupt political class lives lavishly off of their backs.