It is quite easy to feel helpless and powerless while injustices happen everyday in our world. It has now been over a year since October 7th, 2023, the day Hamas made international headlines by attacking Israel, and the genocide of Palestinian citizens has continued everyday since. Palestinian people have been living with this conflict for many years, but since October of last year conditions have drastically worsened.

Even though you may feel helpless, you can always help by educating yourself on the topic, donating, and boycotting. I realize not everyone is able to donate, but boycotting companies that support this genocide is something you can do daily to help. It is important to do a targeted boycott to see results.

Here is a list of companies that profit from the genocide in Gaza: McDonald’s, Burger King, Starbucks, KFC, Disney, Amazon, Pizza Hut, Coca-Cola, HP, Zara, Bath & Body Works, Puma, Airbnb, Adidas, Domino’s Pizza, H&M, American Eagle and more.

I recommend doing your own research as well, for example through apps that can help you keep track of this list. I personally use an app called “Boycott”. It is very user-friendly - you can even scan products as you shop and it will immediately tell you if you should be boycotting that brand/company.

(Pictured: The Women in Black vigil on campus, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. Photo by Jayvis (Ivy) Eisener.)