Anaïs Mitchell Urges US to End Gaza Siege
Singer-songwriter mobilizes, highlights civilian toll, calls for global aid and outreach
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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Image: Instagram
On May 1, folk artist Anaïs Mitchell used her Instagram platform to break the silence around the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a raw, unfiltered caption accompanying powerful images by photographer Yael Jamina, she wrote: “Re: Gaza, I keep not having the words, but better to say it wrong than not at all. The images coming out of Gaza are unbearable.” Mitchell’s post quickly went viral, as she called on Americans to speak out.
The Call To Action
Mitchell spelled out concrete steps for her followers: contact Vermont’s congressional delegation—Reps. Becca Balint, Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch—who have opposed U.S. funding for Israeli military operations; donate to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund; and join global calls, including from the U.N., to stop the bombing and open humanitarian corridors. Mitchell stressed it isn’t an attack on Israelis but rather “of a radically violent rightwing administration.” She added, “To raise our voices against the violation of international humanitarian law shouldn’t be controversial.”
Political Context
In her post, Mitchell noted that nearly half of Gaza’s population is under 18 and emphasized that U.S. tax dollars directly underwrite Israeli military spending. While the U.S. provides roughly $3.8 billion in direct military aid annually, critics argue that unrestricted support contributes to civilian casualties. Mitchell’s message urged Americans to recognize their government’s role and demand a change in policy.
Past Activism
This isn’t the first time Mitchell has used social media to advocate for justice. On April 5, she shared a post titled “Mass mobilization this weekend,” urging followers to join nationwide demonstrations against policies she described as eroding free speech, peaceful assembly and human rights. In that caption, she reflected on taking her children to see Snow White and comparing it to the “surreal” state of politics today—encouraging supporters to remind each other “that we’re still here.”
Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHBWG5thZFc/
Artistic Background
Mitchell, 42, is best known as the creator of Hadestown, the folk opera that won eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical and Best Original Score. A graduate of Middlebury College, she has released six solo albums since 2003 and collaborated with artists like Bonny Light Horseman. Her roots in Vermont—where she lives with her family—align with her consistent track record of community organizing and political engagement.
Industry Reaction
Fellow musicians and theater makers have applauded Mitchell’s stand. In the days following her post, several Broadway alumni reposted her message, while grassroots organizers in Burlington and Montpelier reported increased calls to local offices. Mitchell’s approach—combining heartfelt reflection with actionable steps—resonated beyond her fan base, inspiring conversations in online folk circles and political groups alike.
Despite the weight of her subject, Mitchell remained grounded: “Small actions help me feel hopeful,” she wrote. Alongside her advocacy, she continues work on a new album slated for release later this year, promising that her art and activism will remain intertwined.
Through personal testimony, policy critique and calls to civic engagement, Anaïs Mitchell’s Instagram appeal underscores the growing role of artists in shaping international conversations. By urging her audience to speak up, she demonstrates how cultural influence can translate into concrete political action.
In the days ahead, Mitchell plans to host a virtual town hall with Vermont activists and to partner with local nonprofits distributing aid. As the Gaza crisis unfolds, her voice—rooted in creativity and conscience—reminds audiences that art and advocacy go hand in hand.
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