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It is
with heartbreaking sorrow that the Palestinian National Initiative
announce
the tragic death of Edward Said who passed away today after eleven
years fighting leukemia. At this time our thoughts and love are with
his family. We wish them strength and courage and assurance that
Edward will be a man forever remembered not only for his incredible
achievements but for his remarkable qualities as a friend. Though
words may do little at such a time to assuage the pain and grief
something must be said to pay homage to a man and a life we should
truly celebrate.
A man with great courage and clear conviction Edward Said was a
shining light in a confused world. As a true intellectual giant,
Said inspired all fields with his accomplishments. The passion which
infused his intellectual abilities presented him as a man with clear
visions to be greatly admired, trusted and respected.
Though his beliefs and commitments presented him with many
challenges his statements and many testimonies of outrage at the
hypocrisies, contradictions, and indignities so rife in the world
gave him the integrity and honesty for which he was renowned.
A prolific writer Said addressed all issues of culture, colonialism,
imperialism, language and literature. As a Palestinian exile much of
his political writing came from personal memories yet he remained
objective and grounded not only affirming the Palestinian presence
but also pointing toward a future where peace is possible. Among
spokespeople for the Palestinian cause surely there was none so
articulate, so inspiring, so admired.
For the Palestinian National Initiative, a movement striving for
democracy in Palestine itself co-founded by Dr. Said, the death of
this unique and most prominent leader, a man of values and integrity
who truly believed in freedom and justice is a great loss. The
Mubadara remain determined to follow in his foot steps, and remain
committed to his vision, conveying all his hopes and values not just
of a free Palestine, and free Palestinians but of freedom for all,
the world over.
The sense of loss felt by the death of such a great intellect,
gentleman and friend is immeasurable. His eminent work of decades
and all that he stood for will remain forever a monument for
justice, and human rights. As a man of courage, graciousness, hope
and dedication, his memory will remain forever in our hearts.
Mustafa Barghouthi
Secretary Palestinian National Initiative
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