This picture is a representation of raced bodies that has a clear subject position. First off, notice the difference between the strong bodies (the Israeli Defense Force Soldiers) and the weak bodies (the white protesters). The angle the picture is taken at gives the soldiers a more imposing feel, thus signifing that the soldiers are higher up in the system of power. Not that they need any more help looking imposing since they are wearing kevlar body armor and helmets, as well as being armed with hand guns and M4 Carbines. M4 Carbines are used specifically in urban settings since they have a smaller barrel than a rifle along with a colapsable butt stock for easier movement in cramped spaces. They also shot at a faster rate than an M16. The soldier's face who is looking at the protesters is one of smugness and a 'don't move or we'll bring you more pain'. The protesters have clearly been huddled together so as to keep a better eye on them. The white person with the dreads covering his/her (I can't tell) face seems to have been pepper sprayed. Military grade pepper spray has a higher oliresan capsicum percentage than pepper spray you can buy in the store for self defense. Having been pepper sprayed before for security training I can attest to the pain it brings lasting anywhere from 8 hours to 24 hours with rare occurences of relapsing pain. The protesters are trying to stop Israeli settlers from taking land that had belonged to Palestinians before Israel became a country again in 1948. The protesters, unfortunately, by being classified as white have a greater effect on me since we share the same race, than if they were a race different than my own. By identifying with them, I have a greater cause of concern that 'settling' is unjust. The Settlers move into the West Bank or East Jerusalem and 'settle' or 'squat' in a Palestinian's home and claim it as there own forcing the former owners out. Having personally seen Settlers take over another family's dwelling in the Sheik Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem is a heinous sight that makes you notice that through 'supperior' power, class, and race you can do whatever you choose with no repercusions. Israel is the highest recipiant of U.S. forgein Aid and Egypt was number 2. It will be interesting to see in the coming years how foreign aid to Egypt will change now that Hosni Mubarak, the former President of Egypt, is no longer in power. Mubarak was the only Middle Eastern leader who had a peace agreement with U.S. backed Israel which is no longer acknowledged by the Egyptians.
I really liked that you pointed out the angle of the picture, it really does in fact make the soldiers seem more intimidating and bigger than they really are. I also found it interesting that the guy in the picture almost looks like he is talking to them and probably in the event of this picture not saying anything very nice. I also find it interesting that some of the soldiers backs are turned to the scene almost implying that this is so second nature and not even something worth them turning around and assisting with. I also noticed that they have the person with the dreads in the forefront, having dreads in today's society as being dirty and hippie.
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