Marieha Hussain's Statement Post 'not guilty' verdict

Following the conclusion of her trial, Marieha Hussain read this statement outside court:

I must start by thanking God for giving me the patience and strength to withstand the trials and tribulations of the last 10 months. It has led me to my outstanding legal team who defended me, CAGE who have advocated for me and academics, like Nels Abbey, who have supported me. 

Despite the pressure from the CPS and the police, Judge Vanessa Lloyd has seen through this politicised prosecution and I have found some justice today. The damage to my reputation and image can never be undone but I am proud to have defended the principle that our language and political critique is not illegal.

The laws on hate speech must serve to protect us all, but this trial shows us that these laws are being weaponised to target ethnic minorities and in my case also crack down on pro Palestine political dissent. 

It goes without saying this has been an agonising ordeal for my family and I. Instead of enjoying my pregnancy, I have been vilified in the media, lost my career & dragged through the court system in what can only be described as a politically motivated show trial. 

Although it may seem like I lost it all, in actual fact I have been liberated - free to openly call out genocide enablers wherever I find them. Nearly a year on from the genocide in Gaza, and despite this trial, I am more determined than ever to continue using my voice to defend Palestine. 

FREE FREE Palestine!