Echoes of Courage: The Inspiring Journey of Tamara Rasamny

Acknowledgments to Prof. Nasser Zaidan

In the annals of history, there arise remarkable individuals whose courage and conviction transcend the confines of circumstance, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of humanity. Tamara Rasamny, a Lebanese-American student, stands as a beacon of hope, her unwavering spirit illuminating the path for those who dare to challenge injustice.

A mere month before her anticipated graduation from Columbia University, Tamara?found herself?embroiled in a profound test of her convictions. Arrested and suspended for her involvement in a courageous sit-in protest, she faced a crossroads: wield her voice from the graduation podium or face the consequences of a potential arrest. With unwavering resolve, she?confided to?Reuters from New York, “My speech is a testament to bravery, courage, and the power of speaking up.?If I cannot adhere to my own words,?then?what right do I have to speak?at all??That, to me, was the crux of it all, and it was a choice I made without hesitation.” _

Tamara's journey was not?an?isolated?one; her kinship with fellow activist Tamara Walid Rasamany, originally from Deir Qubul in the Aley district, exemplified the ripples of resistance that echoed across campuses.?Tamara Walid found herself forcibly expelled from her Ph.D. program at New York University for leading fervent student movements in solidarity with Palestine and vehemently condemning the Gaza genocide.

Despite the interrogations and expulsions at the hands of US authorities, these courageous women remained steadfast in their activism, refusing to abandon their principles even in the face of dire consequences. Tamara Rasamny's father, Walid Rasamny, spoke with palpable pride about his daughter's unwavering stance, emphasizing that her commitment to the cause of Palestine transcended any academic accolades. “What Tamara has done far outweighs the significance of any doctoral degree or certificate. Her unwavering support for Palestine is a source of enduring pride for me,” he declared with conviction.

In a poignant interview with esteemed journalist Ricardo Karam, Walid Rasamny sheds light on Tamara's pivotal role in the student uprising and the personal sacrifices she endured. A brilliant scholar on the cusp of completing her master's degree, Tamara bravely?chose to confront?injustice head-on, embodying the timeless values of courage and conscience.

Tamara's impassioned activism reverberated across continents, inspiring countless students worldwide to raise their voices against injustice. Her selfless sacrifice, marked by the forfeiture of her graduation ceremony, served as a poignant reminder of the profound importance of standing up for one's beliefs in?the pursuit of?justice.

In recognition of her extraordinary courage and sacrifice, impassioned calls have resonated for Lebanese universities to confer upon Tamara Rasamny an honorary doctorate—an acknowledgment of her profound contribution to the collective conscience of humanity. Additionally, there is a fervent hope that the Minister of Culture will orchestrate a fitting tribute to honor her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to the cause of justice.

Tamara Rasamny's resolute commitment to justice has not only brought immense pride to Lebanon and the Arab world but has also served as a clarion call for justice on the global stage. Through her fearless actions, she has left an indelible mark on history, deserving of the utmost gratitude, admiration, and recognition. Her courageous journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, reminding us of all that together, we can?indeed?make a profound difference.

From Beirut, Prof. Habib Al Badawi