In February 1988 the United National Leadership of the Uprising called upon Palestinians to boycott taxes. The West Bank town of Beit Sahour (where I currently work) emerged as a leader in the tax revolt that continued through the 1st Intifada, or uprising, of 1987-1993.
‘Sahouries’, as they are referred to colloquially, consistently refused to pay taxes setting a model for other Palestinians to follow. Largely because of their actions during the tax revolt, Sahouries are reputed for initiating brave and creative acts of civil disobedience.
The tax revolt was the most prominent of Beit Sahour’s defining moments. In future posts, I hope to expand on Beit Sahour’s unique history in the Palestinian consciousness and address the current implications of that heritage.
Posted By Thayer Hastings
Posted Aug 29th, 2012