Sim Kern’s Call to Action on Palestine and Anti-Genocide Advocacy

Sim Kern, originally an English teacher turned science fiction writer and TikTok content creator, has become a prominent voice advocating for Palestinian rights amidst ongoing conflict. Their social media posts highlight key Palestine-related literature, aiming to educate and foster empathy. A viral video recommending books like A Land With a People and Salt Houses garnered over 100,000 views in a day, prompting Kern to clarify their stance through a second video, which has since amassed over 20 million views.

Throughout their activism, Kern has emphasized that the fundamental principle is simple: “genocide is bad.” Their recent book, Genocide Bad, combines scholarship and memoir, dissecting common justifications for Israeli policies and advocating for universal human rights. Kern underscores that understanding and exposing the truths of state violence requires persistent effort, especially in the face of suppression and media silence.

Growing up with deeply ingrained lessons against genocide—shaped by Holocaust narratives and Holocaust films like Schindler’s List—Kern emphasizes that the fight against oppression transcends national identities and religious distinctions. They argue that Israel’s history includes practices of apartheid, ethnic cleansing, and genocide, highlighting the importance of grounding discussions in universal human rights standards.

Responding to criticisms and debates, Kern developed their book structure based on responses to Zionist arguments encountered online. Their work also reflects the complex relationship between their Jewish identity—focused on cultural and patrilineal roots—and their stance against state violence.

Kern draws connections between historical anti-Semitism, European racialization, and the racialized construction of Jewishness in Israel, framing Israel’s treatment of Palestinians as a form of white supremacy. They describe activism as a continual practice of courage, acknowledging the fears and sacrifices involved.

With a compelling call to action, Kern urges individuals to amplify their voices, especially as millions of Gaza residents face starvation and preventable death. Their message is clear: do more, speak louder, and stand against genocide.