Palestinian refugees in all Palestinian camps responded to calls to commemorate January 29th as a Palestinian National Day, in a collective act affirming their commitment to national identity and the right of return, and renewing their pledge that Palestine remains their compass and goal.

From the early morning hours, students from UNRWA schools went out wearing Palestinian keffiyehs and raising maps of Palestine and keys symbolizing return, in a clear message from the new generation that Palestine is present in their consciousness, and that the right of return is non-negotiable and inalienable.

This scene reflected a broad popular movement, as families were keen to send their children to school fully adorned with symbols of national identity, from Palestinian dress to chants proclaiming Palestine and the right of return, in defiance of all attempts at displacement and assimilation.

This message comes amidst escalating tensions, fueled by practices by UNRWA management that refugees consider a direct attack on expressions of national belonging and an attempt to suppress Palestinian identity. This is especially true after serious incidents, including the expulsion of a student in Beirut for wearing a dress bearing the Palestinian flag, and the subsequent ban on raising the Palestinian flag in schools.

This event also served as a clear message of protest to UNRWA management, emphasizing that students’ right to education is inseparable from their dignity and national identity. This comes in light of the unjust policies of salary cuts and reduced working hours that have prompted educational staff to continue their struggle against these measures.