Harmonizing Resistance: Palestinian Musician Clarissa Bitar's Revolutionary Artistry

For Palestinian oud musician and composer Clarissa Bitar, art is intrinsically linked to revolutionary struggle. The award-winning artist and "Artist Against Apartheid" recently traveled to Havana, Cuba, to perform at the "Cuban Gala Against Homophobia and Transphobia" organized by the National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX), a Cuban organization that advocates for LGBTQ rights. Held during the seventh month of Israel's genocidal war in Gaza, the gala focused on expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people, a common stance for socialist Cuba, which has been a steadfast supporter of the Palestinian liberation movement on the global stage.

Harmonizing Resistance: A Palestinian Artist's Journey

Forging a Path at the Intersection of Music and Activism

Clarissa Bitar's journey as a political activist and musician began simultaneously during her time at the University of California, Santa Barbara. As a Palestinian on both sides of her family, she was raised with a deep understanding of the occupation and the ongoing struggle for Palestinian liberation. Her involvement with Students for Justice in Palestine on campus served as her entry point into leftist organizing spaces, where she found a community that respected the art and intention behind her music.Bitar's music and activism grew in tandem, as she recognized the importance of Palestinian artists taking an active political role. The community's appreciation for her dual commitment to artistic expression and revolutionary struggle further fueled her passion, creating a symbiotic relationship between her creative and activist pursuits.

Witnessing Cuban Solidarity with the Palestinian Cause

In May, Bitar traveled to Cuba to perform at the CENESEX gala, where she had the opportunity to represent both the Palestinian and the queer communities. This experience allowed her to witness firsthand the deep solidarity of the Cuban people with the Palestinian struggle for liberation, even as Cuba itself suffers under a US-imposed economic blockade.Bitar was struck by the warmth and unwavering support she received from the Cuban people, who expressed their commitment to the Palestinian revolution "by any means necessary." This solidarity resonated deeply with Bitar, especially in contrast to the "gaslighting and demonization" she often experiences as a Palestinian in the United States.The Cuban government's institutional support for the Palestinian cause, including providing free medical education to Palestinian students, further impressed Bitar. She was amazed to see the level of cultural appreciation and investment in the arts, even amidst the challenges posed by the economic blockade.

The Power of Revolutionary Art and Cultural Workers

Bitar's experience in Cuba reinforced her belief in the crucial role of artists and cultural workers in revolutionary processes. She believes that everyone must engage in the struggle for liberation in whatever way they can, whether through direct action, writing, or the power of artistic expression.As an artist, Bitar sees her music as a means of energizing people, conveying messages, and asserting resistance against the erasure of Palestinian culture and traditions. She recognizes the potential for art to be used for good or ill, and thus remains steadfast in aligning her creative work with the principles of the revolutionary movement.Bitar was inspired by the way the Cuban people embraced the diverse forms of resistance, from fighters to pen-wielders to musicians and dancers. She believes that different artists can reach different audiences and help galvanize the movement in unique ways, each contributing to the collective struggle.

Navigating the Emotional Toll of Ongoing Oppression

The past nine months of Israel's relentless assault on Gaza have been emotionally heavy and frustrating for Bitar. As a Palestinian in the diaspora, she grapples with the constant feeling of contributing to the destruction of her homeland with every dollar she spends.In these challenging times, Bitar has found solace and a sense of productivity in her music. Turning to her craft has become a healing outlet, allowing her to channel her emotions into something tangible and meaningful. Bitar has also been heartened to hear from others who have found comfort and joy in her music during this period of intense suffering.While the experience of witnessing the ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people can be overwhelming, Bitar remains steadfast in her commitment to using her art as a tool for resistance and liberation. Her time in Cuba has further reinforced her belief in the power of cultural workers and the importance of their active engagement in revolutionary struggles.

Embracing Queer Identity in Revolutionary Cuba

Bitar's experience as a queer person in Cuba was also a profound one. She was struck by the welcoming and inclusive environment she encountered, in stark contrast to the hostility and discrimination often faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States.The fact that the CENESEX gala, which celebrated queer identity and rights, was hosted and supported by the Cuban government was a revelation for Bitar. She was able to freely express her identity, even with her visible post-top surgery scar, without feeling uncomfortable or unwelcome.Bitar's observations of the progressive Families Code, which enshrined expansive LGBTQ+ rights in Cuba, further challenged the common Western narratives that demonize the Global South's approach to queer issues. The institutional support and celebration of queer culture in Cuba stood in stark contrast to the realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States.Bitar's time in Cuba left her with a deep appreciation for the country's commitment to social justice, its altruistic culture, and its unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for liberation. As a revolutionary artist, her experiences have reinforced her belief in the power of cultural workers to contribute to the collective fight against imperialism and oppression.