Ms. Nesnek began her talk by giving context as to who A.J. Muste was and how she did not hear about who he was until later in her life. She proceeded to discuss the events of October 7th the war that has followed. She shared that, while it is hard to speak to what A.J. Muste would have done or said about Israel and Gaza, she believes that he would have called for a ceasefire and would advocate for the United States to pull their military funding for the State of Israel. Her talk highlighted and endorsed the idea of BDS — boycott, divestment, and sanctions. However, she highlighted a sobering reality — 30 states have proposed or enacted laws prohibiting the boycotts of the State of Israel. She further emphasized the legal hurdles Palestinians face in their journey for justice. Neznek’s talk wove together practical peace initiatives with the history of the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Mary Neznek speaking at the 2024 conference, A.J. Muste: Peacemaker, Prophet, Pragmatist
In her presentation, Ms. Neznek shared a powerful quote that has stuck with us since: “Pain which is not transformed is transmitted.” This statement served as a reminder of the urgent need to address Palestinian justice issues. Neznek delved into various avenues through which ordinary civilians can support the cause. Drawing inspiration from A.J. Muste’s leadership, Neznek emphasized his steadfast opposition to crimes against humanity and speculated on his potential role in protests against genocide. She also shed light on the efforts of organizations striving for a ceasefire, hostage release, and the protection of basic human rights in conflict zones like Gaza.
“Pain which is not transformed is transmitted.”
Despite global outcry, Neznek mourns the fact that the predicament of Gaza remains largely unacknowledged. Neznek, however, suggested that Muste would have offered a solution-oriented approach, similar to saying, “There’s a way to untie them,” challenging the prevailing culture of silence and complacency.
Neznek didn’t shy away from criticizing the complicity of the world in ongoing atrocities, attributing it partly to the influence of money. She highlighted the sacrifices made by individuals advocating for change, drawing parallels between Muste’s perseverance and Jesus’s unwavering stance.
Moreover, Neznek highlighted the interconnectedness of justice issues — from environmental concerns to incarceration — all while emphasizing the importance of Palestinian rights. During a phone interview, Neznek graciously responded to additional questions that we had following her talk. She began by discussing the significant role played by Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP), highlighting their advocacy for a permanent ceasefire and the right of return for Palestinians. For her, this should involve pressing the United Nations to facilitate the return of Palestinians to their ancestral homes or provide compensation for the land and properties they have lost as a critical step towards justice and reconciliation.
We inquired about other organizations that might align with the pacifist principles of A.J. Muste. She pointed out Muste’s association with the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR), emphasizing his preference for mobilizing individuals into smaller, more grassroots groups, especially those marginalized or disempowered. She even recounted a touching anecdote about a group of pacifists within FOR who courageously rescued refugees during the Holocaust. This enlightening conversation not only broadened our understanding of the complex dynamics in the Middle East but also emphasized the crucial role grassroots organizations play in effecting meaningful change.
In her conclusion, Ms. Neznek left us with a powerful image that read “Peace, not war in our names.” It’s a sentiment of the deep collective responsibility we all share in advocating for justice, not just for Palestinians but for all who are oppressed and marginalized. As college students, this inspired us to consider how we can respond to these calls for action and strive to make a meaningful difference in the world around us.
—
Elsie Craig is a senior majoring in Business and Communication with minors in Peace & Justice and Classics. She participated in the 2023 Celtic May Term centered around Peace and Reconciliation in Scotland and Northern Ireland. On campus, she has been involved in New Student Orientation and Dance Marathon.
Dezaraya Fields is a senior majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology. She has taken an interest in the topic of peace and justice and has enjoyed taking classes that centered around it. In her future she plans to pursue a career involving criminal justice. On campus, she is involved in research about religiousness and health.
