Olive Branch Association Brings Globalist Perspective to Campus

The Olive Branch Association (OBA), re-establishing this school year, is working to make humanitarian issues more visible on campus. From the Palestinian genocide in the Gaza region to the civil war in Yemen, as well as crises occurring in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and beyond, the OBA is engaged. 

What began as a late-night conversation between roommates – former President and Pitt-Greensburg alumni Faith Ellis and current Vice-President Hadeel Ahemed, senior biology major – has now ballooned into an organized space for awareness, education, and greater advocacy. 

Last year, the group’s inaugural event, Painting for Palestine, drew a surprising turnout, according to Ahemed.

 “About 20 people came. Some didn’t know much about the situation, but… [were] willing to learn and express their concerns,” Ahemed said. “It was nice to know you’re not alone.”

OBA is now among the fastest-growing student organizations on campus, boasting 40 new recruits this semester. Their upcoming activities include fundraisers for the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, a cleanup in the Pittsburgh area, and future trivia nights and film screenings. 

For many members, like Idriss Ridani, senior STEM major and OBA’s current president, the mission of OBA is deeply personal.

 “I’ve been a strong supporter of the Palestinians since I was 11 . . . I’ve had Palestinian friends who have spoken to me about their family’s history,” Ridani said. 

An understanding of history, Ahemed added, is central to OBA’s mission.

“There are decades upon decades of history behind this. None of this started on October 7th,” Ahemed said.

As a group, OBA sees its role as both educational and moral. 

The principles of the organization, for Ridani, is paramount.

“It’s difficult to ignore literal genocide. When people say ‘never again,’ but turn a blind eye when it does… that’s complicity.”

Ahemed agreed, adding that education is always key. 

“I would never block out people who don’t know. I always ask why, try to understand their point of view, and try to show them the facts,” Ahemed said. 

OBA’s commitment to greater education remains especially relevant in Westmoreland County. 

“The area is kind of in a bubble. It’s predominantly working-class, and a lot of people feel like they can’t worry about [humanitarian] issues when they’re struggling themselves. That’s where our work comes in – showing it’s all connected,” Ridani said.  

Underlying all of the OBA’s work is a clear belief in the greater universality of human rights. 

“[Basic] human rights come first. Without those, workers’ rights, social rights don’t come,” Ridani said. 

As the organization reshapes, members remain committed to their singular focus. 

“We want to continue to be a voice, to inform others, change minds, and get people to support the cause,” Ridani said.