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Abstract

This study aims to analyze how the watermelon is used, interpreted, and disseminated as a symbol of resistance and a form of expression of solidarity with the Palestinian struggle on social media. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach through various literature sources. It draws upon Roland Barthes’ (1977) theory of signs and meaning to examine the symbolic use of the watermelon in this context. The findings reveal that the watermelon, whose internal colors resemble those of the Palestinian flag—green (rind) symbolizing resilience, white (inner rind) symbolizing sincerity, red (flesh) symbolizing courage, and black (seeds) symbolizing the emerging younger generation—has evolved into a powerful emblem of solidarity and resistance against Israeli oppression of the Palestinian people. The popularity of the watermelon as a symbol has grown significantly since the escalation of the Israel–Palestine conflict on October 7, 2023, up to the time this study was conducted. It has appeared in a variety of visual content formats, including emojis and TikTok filters, thereby broadening its symbolic reach and amplifying its impact on the global solidarity movement.

References

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Jurnal

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Bahasa Abstract

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis bagaimana semangka sebagai simbol perjuangan digunakan, diinterpretasikan, dan disebarluaskan sebagai bentuk ekspresi solidaritas terhadap perjuangan rakyat Palestina di media sosial. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif melalui berbagai sumber pustaka. Penelitian ini menggunakan teori Roland Barthes (1977) tentang tanda dan makna untuk menganalisis penggunaan semangka sebagai simbol perjuangan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan semangka sebagai simbol pejuangan yang warna bagian-bagiannya menyerupai warna bendera Palestina; hijau (kulit luar) simbol keteguhan, putih (kulit buah) simbol keihlasan, merah (daging buah), simbol keberanian; dan hitam (biji) simbol generasi muda yang akan tumbuh. Simbol ini telah berkembang dan menjadi bagian dari ekspresi solidaritas dan perlawanan terhadap penindasan Israel terhadap rakyat Palestina. Popularitas penggunaan semangka meningkat sejak eskalasi konflik Israel-Palestina pada 7 Oktober 2023 sampai hasil penelitian ini ditulis. Semangka muncul dalam berbagai bentuk konten visual, emoji hingga filter TikTok. Hal ini memperluas jangkauan penggunaan semangka sebagai simbol, dan berdampak luas pada gerakan solidaritas global.

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