NEW YORK — Growing up in the West Bank, Leqaa Kordia experienced deep connections with family separated by conflict in Gaza, exchanging laughter and moments over phone calls from the beach. Now, as war ravages the Strip, she finds herself grappling with the loss of many relatives in the violence.
Kordia, who has been detained in Texas since March 2024 amidst the Trump administration's crackdown on protesters, feels increasingly hopeless about her situation. “Most days I feel helpless,” reflects the 32-year-old Palestinian activist, who moved to New Jersey in 2016.
Though others arrested during the pro-Palestinian demonstrations have regained their freedom, Kordia remains entangled in a web of legal challenges. Her motivations stem from the tragedy that has struck her family, with over 170 relatives reported dead due to the ongoing violence in Gaza.
Facing scrutiny from the government for her protests, Kordia's ties to her homeland have been mischaracterized as suspicious, including the financial support sent to relatives in need.
The latest legal developments bring attention to a federal ruling asserting that the government unlawfully targeted justified protest actions. However, Kordia's situation remains dire as she sits in detention while her family continues to suffer in conflict.
Having participated in numerous demonstrations across New York and New Jersey, Kordia was arrested during a protest at Columbia University, a moment that led to her ongoing detention. Calls from her relatives in Gaza, filled with fear and hunger, propelled her commitment to activism.
As Kordia contemplates her life, she dreams of reunification with her family and seeks to establish a peaceful life where she can share her culture through food by opening a café. Yet, the relentless legal battle continues to hinder her path to freedom.
“That’s all I wanted, to live with my family in peace in a land that appreciates freedom,” Kordia expresses, embodying the profound desire for connection, safety, and hope amidst turmoil.
