Bisan Owda
Here’s another face you may know: this is Bisan Owda, more commonly known on social media as @wizard_bisan1, one of the most prominent faces of Gazan journalism. Only in her late twenties, she’s won the 2024 Peabody award for her show “It’s Bisan from Gaza and I’m Still Alive,” with Al Jazeera, but is probably more well known for the social media reporting that has connected millions of users with up to date, firsthand accounts of the impact of Israel’s assault on the people of Gaza.
Israel has killed more than 100 Palestinian journalists in the past 8 months, making this the deadliest conflict on record for journalists. Moreover, there is evidence that many of these journalists were specifically targeted by Israel, during their line of duty, while wearing their press jackets. The blue press jacket has become a symbol of this vital lifeline that is swiftly being cut, as well as the bravery of Palestinian journalists to stay and share truth with the world even when their homes and even families have been ripped away from them.
You can follow Bisan on Instagram @wizard_bisan1 and watch her show, “It’s Bisan from Gaza and I’m Still Alive” on the AJ+ YouTube channel.
With your heart: Pray for Bisan and other journalists as they face constant danger in the service of truth. Pray that their words and experiences would touch the hearts of people of conscience around the world to work for justice.
With your voice: Write an email to your Member of Parliament asking them to condemn the attacks on Palestinian journalists and work to ensure press freedom throughout Palestine/Israel.
With your hands: Follow Bisan on social media to keep up to date with information on the ground in Gaza.
