The Brussels-based poet went to jail last year for interrupting the opening gala of the Belgian presidency of the EU with a slam defending the rights of Palestinians, the kind of courage the League of Human Rights says it wants to support
Brussels writer and spoken word artist Hind Eljadid has been awarded the 32nd Human Rights Award by the Liga voor Mesen Rechten, or League for Human Rights. The prize is awarded every two years to a person or organisation “that has made admirable efforts to promote human rights”.
Eljadid performs in Dutch, and her work highlights social issues, such as racism and xenophobia. “With a unique style, she connects with her audience through poetry, spoken word, and theatre, exploring themes of inequality and identity,” said the League in a statement.
‘Make your voice heard’
The League chose Eljadid over the other four nominees for her courage, it said, when she performed her slam for Palestinian rights at the celebration of the Belgian EU Presidency in 2024. It was in violation of the agreements made with the organiser, and she was subsequently arrested.
“All to stand up against injustice,” said the League. “To commemorate the Prize, we are launching a campaign about the right to freedom of expression. Because one voice can break the silence. So make your voice heard; we will help amplify it.”