A sand portrait of Hind Rajab – a 5-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed by Israeli forces in January, 2024, and who is now the focus of Oscar-nominated film, The Voice of Hind Rajab – has been created on a beach in Yorkshire, England, by artists from @aletterfromlucy.
The artwork includes some of Hind’s heartbreaking last words, which were recorded as she called for help: “I am scared. Come get me please.”
Six of Hind’s family members were also killed at the time, as well as paramedics from the Red Crescent who were on their way to rescue her.
The artists behind the portrait say they are honouring Hind who dreamed about going to the beach after the war, and playing there, just like other kids:
“The drawing is a tribute to her, and encourages people to watch the film. It is uncomfortable to watch as it emotionally connects you to the desperation of a child in the Gaza conflict. The purpose is to provoke empathy which challenges our conscience. Not only should people watch the film so that Hind’s voice is not forgotten, but to also remember the other 20,000 children that have died during the conflict. This is their story as well as hers.” (Via The National Arts)
The Voice of Hind Rajab is nominated for Best International Feature at the Oscars tomorrow. Important also to note, one of the film’s stars, Motaz Malhees, can’t attend the ceremony due to Trump’s travel bans.
In a post on social media, Motaz said: “I am not allowed to enter the United States because of my Palestinian citizenship. It hurts. But here is the truth – You can block a passport. You cannot block a voice…. Our story is bigger than any barrier, and it will be heard.”
(Feature Image Credit: shared with permission, A Letter From Lucy)
