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Beyond Survivance: Sumud Through Food -Oranges, Olives & Watermelons

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This thesis explores the media symbols of resilience through the cultural lens of food, specifically focusing on native olive trees, the watermelon as a representation of the flag, and Jaffa oranges. These elements are not merely culinary staples; they are symbols of identity, resistance, and survival within struggle. By examining the historical, cultural, and political significance of these symbols, this study aims to shed light on how food transcends its primary function to become a medium of cultural expression and resistance.The olive tree's significance extends beyond its economic and cultural dimensions to showcase a deep spiritual and symbolic role within society. It is a living example of tenacity, often outliving the individuals who plant and nurture it. This intergenerational connection reinforces a sense of belonging, binding communities together through a shared heritage. Thus, the olive tree serves as a powerful symbol of resistance, with its roots entrenched in the land, symbolizing the steadfastness or “sumud” of those in the face of occupation. The watermelon has emerged as a symbol of nationalism, particularly for its visual resemblance to the flag. The green rind, white flesh, red interior, and black seeds correspond to the flag's colors, transforming this fruit into a subtle, yet powerful symbol of resistance. Its use in art, media, and public demonstrations showcases its role in the cultural narrative of resistance, serving as a form of peaceful protest and a reminder of identity under occupation. Jaffa oranges symbolize loss and resilience. The city of Jaffa historically has had oranges as a major export, making it well-known across the Arab world. The Nakba in 1948 and the occupation of orchards by Israeli entities turned the citrus into a reminder of displacement. Their commercialization under Israeli branding obscured their origins and highlighted cultural erasure. Despite this, Jaffa oranges remain a powerful symbol of pre-1948 society and national pride, preserved in art, literature, and oral histories. They encapsulate the dual themes of loss and resilience, reflecting the struggle to preserve cultural identity and heritage amidst hardship. This study employs a dual methodological approach, combining narrative contextualization and ethnography, to explore how media symbols such as watermelons, oranges, and olives represent resilience through food. By analyzing the power of these symbols, the study reveals how to express and maintain their identity and agency amidst ongoing challenges. This exploration contributes to food studies and cultural resistance by demonstrating how everyday items hold deep political and cultural significance. The thesis highlights the association of food, identity, and resistance, showcasing ingenuity and resilience in preserving heritage and asserting their rights. Ultimately, it underscores the role of cultural symbols in sustaining collective memory and fostering continuity and hope amidst adversity.
DOI: 10.34917/39206688
Author: Atout, Leena
Language: English
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7093103751
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