Umm al-Fahm Celebrates Historian Wajdi Hassan Jamil's New Book on Labor Leader

The Community Center of Umm al-Fahm, in cooperation with the General Union of Palestinian Writers - Karmel 48, held a cultural event on Sunday evening to launch and honor historian and researcher Wajdi Hassan Jamil.

The event was moderated by poet Tahani Tamish, who emphasized the importance of celebrating local cultural and research output, particularly studies that document and critically re-examine modern Palestinian history using original sources. Mohammad Saleh Aghbariya, Director General of the Community Center, welcomed attendees and praised the partnership, affirming the center's commitment to supporting cultural initiatives that honor the city. Lubaba Sabri, Director of the Culture Department, expressed admiration for the book and the author's diligent research, calling it a significant addition to Palestinian historical literature and pledging the department's continued support for researchers.

Mostafa Abd al-Fattah, Secretary General of the Union of Writers, highlighted the book's importance in preserving national memory and identity, stating that culture is the "first line of defense for our existence and identity." He described the book as a "historical document and a profound human and research reference" that sheds light on an authentic Palestinian union experience and the labor movement during a pivotal era.

Poet Amin Zaid Kilani presented a poem honoring national memory and creative individuals. The historian Wajdi Hassan Jamil thanked the organizers and attendees, expressing pride in the event being held in his hometown. He stressed the importance of critically documenting modern Palestinian history, including failures and conflicts, and noted that history encompasses not just leaders and wars but also the lives of workers, peasants, and unions.

He asserted that disagreements do not justify assassination and that historical research must remain open to critical readings, advocating for learning from the past without mechanically projecting it onto the present.

The book, published in 2026, utilizes an analytical historical methodology based on archival documents, correspondence, reports, and Arab, Hebrew, and English newspapers, as well as memoirs and testimonies. Shaher Saad, Secretary General of the General Union of Palestinian Workers, provided an introductory statement for the publication. The event concluded with a ceremony honoring the author, followed by an opportunity for attendees to interact and purchase the book, reflecting the importance of revisiting the history of the Palestinian labor movement.