In the midst of a world often marred by conflict, finding ways to channel our hopes and messages of peace into creative outlets can be profoundly healing. Recently, I completed a crochet piece that holds deep personal and political significance. This piece features the ancient Ogham script, spelling out the word “ceasefire,” inspired by artist Bambie Thug’s bold statement during the Eurovision Song Contest. They were moved to take a stand against the genocide in Gaza because they identify as pro-justice and pro-peace. Though their attempt to display the word on their face was blocked due to the contest’s non-political stance, their message resonated deeply with me, compelling me to bring it to life through crochet.
What is Ogham Writing?
Ogham is an early medieval alphabet used primarily to write the early Irish language. The script consists of a series of linear strokes carved along the edges of stones, believed to date back to the 4th to 7th centuries AD. Each letter, or “fid,” is composed of one to five strokes either perpendicular or angled to a central line. This ancient form of writing is not only a connection to the distant past but also a unique way to embed messages with layers of historical and cultural significance. The Irish people understand what it is to be occupied, to live under oppression of another; that makes them inherently compassionate to the suffering of the Palestinian people.
The Struggles in Gaza
As I crocheted each stitch, I couldn’t help but think of the difficult conditions faced by the Palestinian people in Gaza. The region is often referred to as the world’s largest open-air prison, with its residents enduring severe restrictions on movement, inadequate access to basic necessities, and frequent outbreaks of violence. The recent escalation in the conflict has only exacerbated these hardships, making the call for peace and ceasefire even more urgent. The United Nations and the International Criminal Court have stated that war crimes are ongoing in Gaza. As of 22 June 2024, over 38,000 people have been killed; with 52% being women and minors. Through this piece, I hope to draw attention to the plight of those in Gaza and amplify their calls for a peaceful resolution.
Craftivism: The Art of Protest
Craftivism, a combination of craft and activism, is a form of protest that uses traditional crafts to make powerful political statements. This form of activism allows individuals to engage with political issues in a personal and creative way, transforming everyday objects into symbols of resistance and hope. By choosing to crochet the word “ceasefire” in Ogham, I not only embraced a craft I love but also participated in a broader movement of using art for social change. With each single crochet I hoped for the end of suffering, for the end of occupation, for the end of despots who hold no regard for human life. I am one person, and at times it can feel like that means you cannot make a difference, but I am willing to be one more voice, added to a chorus of others calling for peace.
In creating this piece, I found a way to honor Bambie Thug’s message and stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza. Craftivism reminds us that even in the face of immense challenges, we have the power to use our creativity to advocate for a better world. Through this project, I hope to inspire others to consider how their own crafts can be used as a tool for peace and positive change.
Resources
- https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2024/0508/1447898-eurovision-ogham/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham
- https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/06/14/gaza-israels-open-air-prison-15
- https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/06/1150946
- https://www.icc-cpi.int/news/statement-icc-prosecutor-karim-aa-khan-kc-applications-arrest-warrants-situation-state
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casualties_of_the_Israel%E2%80%93Hamas_war
Jack's Yarn Crochet Designs 