I’m not entirely sure how many people are involved with Punks for Palestine in Los Angeles, but I recently had the opportunity to interview Kristine, one of the key
organizers of the initiative. Kristine wears many hats—she works as a nurse, performs as a DIY actress, and is the lead singer for the punk band S.O.H. Her remarkable talent for uniting people, along with her dedication to various causes,
shines through in her work.
The recent event, “Punks for Palestine 3,” was a benefit aimed at supporting humanitarian efforts in Gaza, Congo, and Sudan. Kristine not only organizes benefit shows and participates in rallies, but she also truly embodies her commitment to these causes. Her actions speak louder than words, reflecting her genuine dedication to making a difference.
This brief interview was to discuss Punks for Palestine 3, and was conducted via email, but if you’re interested in learning more, you can find an in depth inter-
view about Kristine’s work on my YouTube channel, titled “Punks for Palestine” (username: Soynoise).
Can you share your experience visiting “Israel” and Palestine?
What was the atmosphere like during your time there?
It was very interesting. Just entering Tel Aviv airport alone was very hectic. My friend that I was with was born in Saudi Arabia and we had to go to the detained room for an hour of questioning. Their security was very strict and there was so many questions regarding religion. Everyone in “Israel” was pretty nice but when we asked some people about their idea of the wall, they all had the same answer
where they feel “safer” with it. When we crossed the borders to go to Bethlehem, there was an obvious change in architecture and landscape. The areas were very
dry, and there were “zones” dedicated to wifi. There were streets Palestinians weren’t allowed to go on, and there was a lot of art on the wall expressing freedom. Definitely a life changing experience.
Can you tell us about the freeway banner drop protest that you
and your friends organized?
We organized this in the heart of LA off 4th street. We did this
twice on Sunday morning and it felt really good to see who was in
solidarity with us. It was also an eye opener to see how much hate there was as well. We got honks, waves and sometimes we got flipped off. Either way, was
happy to represent for Anti-war, anti-colonizers.
Can you explain the differences between the second Punks for Palestine show and the most recent one?
The second punks for Palestine was an art exhibit versus the third one was a fashion show. We want to keep engaging in different ways of art as well as representing the artists here in LA who are for the cause. They both raised close to $5000 each, and the third one we incorporating B.Y.O.M which was bringing your own meat. We want to organize more open grills for the community.
What challenges do you face in advocating for Palestine within the punk community or broader society?
We get a lot of messages regarding safety, which we always provide. We also get hate messages, but we dont pay no mind. We know where our hearts are.
How do you balance respecting Palestinian culture while integrating it with punk, which is often seen as counter cultural and rebellious?
We try to preserve peace and always promote drug free environments. We also try to encourage people to be cautious because like our recent one, was all ages. At the same time, we try to integrate and highlight the event with individualism and compassion.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about the Palestinian struggle within the punk scene?
The most common comments I see some punks writing are “if you dress this way there they will kill you” or “if you were gay there you would be murdered”. It is
a form of pink washing and I feel like the best way to go about these comments is to just ignore them.
What are your goals for the Punks for Palestine movement in the coming years?
I hope we don’t have to throw any more shows, ahha so we can see a free Palestine this year. All we can do is keep supporting, and keep raising awareness and education on this matter.
How can others in the punk community get involved or support the cause?
So many message us to volunteer or collaborate. So many help us in organizing, cleaning, sharing, anything helps.
Can you share any powerful moments or stories that have particularly resonated with you during your involvement?
Meeting so many people who have the same ethics, especially during protests, and so much passion in caring for a bigger cause. One powerful moment I remembered
was the first Punks for Palestine. So many different organizations/ promoters came together to raise 10K. It was magical.
Can you tell us about the experiences you had with the UCLA encampment, where you and other punk rock medical professionals volunteered?
It was nerve wracking because people told us if were willing to go to jail for this movement. Me and my friend Caro, who is a nurse both said yes and I realized that we were in present danger. We helped so many students in superficial burns, and other medical aid that broke my heart because it was all caused by the LAPD. In the end, it felt good to see a community build safety within each other and provide care for those in need.
