My brother Shihadeh was a kind soul who lived with his heart on his sleeve and would give the shirt off his back to a stranger. On February 15th he was murdered. In his final breaths, Shihadeh was shot six times and robbed.
My brother’s life was worth more than a cellphone. He was so full of life and was such an unforgettable character. He deserved better.
As Palestinians, it feels like we are always fighting for our lives no matter where we are. I am reminded that we must let this grief change us. It must deepen our resolve to protect and take care of one another when the systems around us fail to do so.
In Arabic, the name Shihadeh means “a humble ask,” the posture of a soul standing before the Divine with open hands. It is the word for someone who recognizes they cannot walk this path alone and turns to God and community in total humility. As Palestinians, we are often forced into a position of asking. For our rights, for our safety, for our dignity.
Today, in this grief, his name serves as our collective prayer.
Rest in power, Shihadeh.
For those asking how to support the family, a fund has been set up here: bit.ly/Bir-Family
Read the obituary here: mcalister-smith.com/obituaries/shihadeh-bir
News coverage of his death: wach.com/news/local/man-charged-with-murder-in-shooting-tied-to-iphone-sale-deputies-say
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