A Year of War in Israel: A Year of Protest in Collingswood, NJ

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The United States, a long-standing ally of Israel, has provided more military aid to the country than any other since World War II, allocating $17.9 billion in the past year alone. While U.S. military support for allies is a well-established precedent, it has also sparked significant domestic controversy, with some citizens questioning the use of taxpayer dollars in overseas conflicts.

For nearly a year, a group of protesters has gathered every Saturday along Cuthbert Boulevard in Collingswood, NJ, voicing opposition to U.S. military aid to Israel. The demonstrations, which began in December 2023, were sparked by the conflict that escalated after the attacks of October 7, 2023, and the subsequent Israeli military response in Gaza.

Protestor Saif and his friend holding their hand painted signs.

When asked why he started this small but determined protest, Michael responded, “The outrageous murder of civilians—men, women, and children—using U.S. taxpayer money and bombs in Gaza. There is overwhelming propaganda by our government. We have to counteract that propaganda, number one. We can’t rely on our leaders; we have to rely on the people to assert their power. We are out here to educate people that it is our tax dollars paying for this genocide. We are interested in trying to spur people to take action”

Michael emphasized the importance of grassroots activism, urging people to take action through simple measures, such as contacting their local congressmen.

In addition to their weekly protests, the group has taken their message directly to local politicians. Michael shared that the group had previously visited the office of Donald Norcross, where they peacefully protested, presented a written statement, and had several members speak. The protesters were not dismissed; a staff representative for Norcross came out to listen and receive their statement. They have also demonstrated outside the offices of Andy Kim and Cory Booker.

Looking ahead, the group plans to continue its efforts by distributing flyers and raising awareness about alternative political candidates. “[We’re] “working towards alternative candidates, to oppose the candidates of the machine,” Michael explained, referring to the ‘machine’ as his belief that both Democrats and Republicans are beholden to the same system. He expressed that another way forwards is by voting for alternative candidates. While not aligned with the Green Party, he expressed support for its political candidates within New Jersey. Michael mentioned, “The Green Party currently has 13 candidates running for Congress and Senate in New Jersey.” Although he doesn’t identify as a Green Party member, he supports these alternative candidates, describing them as people “offering the chance to vote for someone who is on the right side of humanity and history”.

One of the other protesters, Taylor, who stood a few people down from Michael, summed up his motivation simply: “We’re just out here for the love of the Palestinian people. We just want to see them prosper.”