Palestinian-Canadian politician waves keffiyeh in swearing-in ceremony

• Ghazal described herself as “100% Quebecois, 100% Palestinian,” according to TVA Nouvelles.

Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal was sworn in as a member of Quebec’s National Assembly on Tuesday. The lawmaker, who is of Palestinian origin, waved a keffiyeh during her swearing-in ceremony. 

Speaking to reporters, Ghazal described herself as “100% Quebecois, 100% Palestinian,” saying her family had come to Quebec four decades ago for peace and public education, according to TVA Nouvelles.

Born in Lebanon to a Palestinian family, Ghazal moved to Quebec at the age of 10. She has spoken about the relationship between her Palestinian roots and her identity as a Quebecer, navigating questions of national identity in a province where language, immigration and sovereignty remain central political issues.

Ghazal first entered the National Assembly in 2018, representing Mercier, a Montreal riding. She was re-elected on October 5, winning 59.2% of the vote, and serves as co-spokesperson of Québec solidaire, a left-wing party that advocates for social justice, environmental protection and Quebec independence.

Québec solidaire won nine seats in the October election, down from 12 in the previous legislature. Ghazal’s return to the Assembly therefore comes as the party faces the challenge of maintaining its influence with a smaller parliamentary group.

Read more: Drummer wears Palestinian keffiyeh During World Cup opening ceremony in US