An Unexpected Departure
It was a morning that began like any other for Leila Stillman-Utterback, an 18-year-old Jewish American passionate about peace. She was in the West Bank, harvesting olives in solidarity with Palestinian farmers, engaging in a cause she deeply believed in. But that day took a surprising turn when Israeli soldiers detained her, leading to an unexpected deportation from a land she considered a second home.
The Journey of Solidarity
Leila’s path to activism wasn’t sudden. It began with her joining the Achvat Amim program—a gap year initiative fostering understanding and solidarity among Jews and Palestinians through education and volunteerism in Israel and the West Bank. Embracing Jewish values like tikkun olam and b’tselem elohim, Leila worked tirelessly to advocate for peace, witnessing both the joys and challenges faced by Palestinians in the region.
Discovering Injustice
During her time in Israel, Leila encountered the harsh realities of life in the West Bank—demolished homes, uprooted trees, and impassioned protests for equality. Yet, she also witnessed hope and resilience: the joy in community gatherings, the simple pleasure of sharing a cup of sage-infused tea, and the camaraderie among fellow activists. According to The Forward, her story resonates with many young activists striving for change.
A Forceful Removal
The day of her detention was meant to be another step in her activism journey. Volunteers, including Leila, were organized and hopeful; however, the moment took an unsettling twist when soldiers declared the area a closed military zone. Despite being temporarily detained and expecting only a West Bank restriction, Leila soon faced the hard reality—a ten-year ban from Israel, a place she longed to be part of.
Redefining Belonging
Though Leila’s deportation was a significant blow, it didn’t deter her resolve. Instead, it strengthened her belief that her Judaism and activism are intertwined. She stands firm in the conviction that true Jewish principles align with supporting justice and peace for Palestinians, not division and discord. Leila’s deportation aims to discourage others, but for her, it’s a testament to the necessity of her work.
Holding Onto Hope
Even barred from returning to Israel, Leila refuses to sever ties. The land may not welcome her now, but it remains integral to her identity and mission. She envisions a future where Jews and Palestinians coexist peacefully—a hope that fuels her continuous efforts from afar. For Leila and like-minded individuals, hope and struggle are intertwined, driving the pursuit of a just and shared future.
In sharing her story, Leila offers a poignant reminder: even amidst adversity, commitment to activism can transcend boundaries and continue to light the path towards peace.
