Marrakech – In the glittering world of fame and fortune, it’s easy to get lost in the sparkle. 

Yet, many celebrities have chosen to use their platforms to shine a light on the darkness faced by the people of Gaza, who are suffering under a genocide by the Israel.  

Their voices, often amplified by millions of followers, serve as a reminder that compassion knows no borders. 

Take Annie Lennox, for example. At the 66th Grammy Awards, the Scottish singer-songwriter made a powerful statement during her performance. 

As she honored the late Sinéad O’Connor, Lennox raised her fist and declared, “Artists for ceasefire,” calling for peace in Gaza. 

That bold move resonated with many, showing how artists can advocate for justice in times of horrific crisis.

Then there’s Boygenius — the indie supergroup made up of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus — who took their message a step further by wearing pins emblazoned with “Artists Call for Ceasefire Now.” 

This initiative, supported by a wide array of musicians and actors including Jennifer Lopez and Joaquin Phoenix, urged Joe Biden, who was the US president at the time — to push for a ceasefire. 

The impact of celebrities using their spotlight to push political agendas can’t be understated.

Esperanza Spalding made a subtle yet striking statement as well, sporting a kaffiyeh — a traditional scarf that is an important part of Palestinian heritage — during her Grammy appearance. 

Sometimes, a simple gesture says more than words ever could. And of course, we can’t forget Bella and Gigi Hadid, the Palestinian-American sisters who have long been vocal advocates for Palestinian rights. 

Bella has attended protests in New York while both sisters flood their social media with stories and videos showing the realities on the ground. 

Their activism inspires a whole new generation to pay attention and take action.

Musicians like Dua Lipa and Zayn Malik have also used their platforms to speak out against the violence in Gaza. 

Zayn’s heartbreak over the loss of innocent lives felt raw and real when he said, “We cannot stand as silent witnesses to children being orphaned and murdered.” 

On a different musical note, Roger Waters, former member of Pink Floyd, has been a longtime critic of Israeli policies. 

His condemnation of evictions in East Jerusalem’s Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood and labeling Israel as an “apartheid state” sparked conversations about international responsibility. 

Waters even calls for sanctions reminiscent of those during the South African apartheid era, showing that history sometimes repeats itself until we learn from it.

Then there’s Mark Ruffalo, the “Avengers” star, who has been equally outspoken about the humanitarian crisis. 

Ruffalo condemned the destruction of hospitals and the tragic loss of civilian lives, urging global leaders to step up and hold those responsible accountable. 

When celebrities like Ruffalo speak, it reminds us that being silent isn’t an option when lives are at stake.

In a world where headlines often focus on division, these celebrities remind us of the power of unity and compassion. 

Their actions — whether social media posts, public statements, or symbolic gestures — serve as a beacon of hope for those in Gaza and beyond. 

As we go about our own busy lives, maybe we can borrow a page from their book. 

Standing up for what’s right doesn’t always require grand gestures; sometimes, it’s the small acts of kindness and solidarity that move mountains.