Handala, a political cartoon character created by Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali in the late 1970s, embodies the Palestinian people's longing and determination to return to their homeland, and the hope that one day they will be able to do so (Baron, 2018). Handala is depicted as a young boy around 8 or 9 years old, with his back always turned towards the viewer, symbolizing his refusal to turn around and face the viewer until he can return home to Palestine (Rosen, 2017).

The image of Handala as a young, barefoot boy with his back turned represents the frustrations and hardships faced by Palestinians, but also their strength and resilience, which allows them to endure and continue their struggle for independence and self-determination (Abu-Lughod, 1990). Handala's image speaks to the deep attachment that Palestinians have to their land and culture, as well as the ongoing struggle to reclaim their rights and dignity (Baron, 2018).

Palestinian Symbols: Handala

Handala is an iconic representation of the Palestinian struggle for independence and self-determination. The character's image has come to symbolize the Palestinian people's longing to return home to their homeland and their unwavering determination to fight for their rights and dignity (Rosen, 2017). Through Handala, Naji al-Ali created a powerful symbol that has resonated with Palestinians and people around the world for decades, and that will continue to be a source of inspiration for generations to come.

References:

Abu-Lughod, L. (1990). The Palestinian Diaspora: Formation of Identities and Politics of Homeland. Columbia University Press.

Baron, B. (2018). Palestinian Cartoonist Naji al-Ali: The Father of Modern Arabic Political Cartooning. Journal of Arabic and Islamic Studies, 18, 45-70.

Rosen, R. (2017). Turning toward Home: A Palestinian Speaks. OR Books