Why We’re Fighting for Steve – And Why You Should Too
Activist and organizer Steve (@neurospicyactivist) is facing up to 7 years in prison after being violently arrested at a peaceful pro-Palestinian protest in Chicago. In this post, Kim Obour shares why Steve’s story matters, how he’s been a tireless advocate for Palestinian families, and why we must all take action now—by showing up in court, donating to his legal fund, and demanding justice. Featuring a link to Kim's podcast interview with Steve on Palestine Speaks and information on how to support his fight for freedom.
Free Steve. Free Palestine.
One of the most genuine, passionate, and selfless people I’ve ever met is now facing seven years in prison—for standing up for Palestinian lives.
I’m talking about my friend Steve, known to many of you as @SRprotestSteve03. But this post isn’t just about an activist. It’s about a person I care deeply for—someone who has consistently shown up for the people, no matter the risk, and who now needs us to show up for him.
Who Is Steve?
Steve and I met in real life at the 2024 DNC protest. That moment changed everything. We were both there, loud and unapologetic in our support for Palestine, and since then, Steve has become one of my closest friends and most powerful sources of inspiration.
He’s neurodivergent and unapologetically pro-Palestinian. Every single day, he uses his voice to fight for those who are often silenced—and he’s raised thousands of dollars for Palestinian families, never keeping a single cent for himself. I’ve seen him do this with my own eyes. He’s never asked for money. He’s never expected recognition. He simply shows up.
And now, they’re trying to lock him away.
What Happened?
On August 19, 2024, Steve attended a peaceful protest in Chicago. What happened next was brutal—he was beaten by police, violently arrested, and jailed for several days.
He is now being charged with assaulting a peace officer, despite all evidence showing he was the one assaulted. He faces up to seven years in prison—for doing what we’ve always been told is our right: protest.
His trial is scheduled for May 12 in Chicago. It’s a bench trial, meaning there’s no jury—just a judge who will decide his future. We need to be there for him now.
Why This Fight Matters
This isn’t just about Steve. It’s about what it means to be loud for Palestine in the U.S. right now. It’s about how the state targets voices like his—voices that can’t be bought or silenced. If they can come for Steve, they can come for any of us.
And that’s why I invited him onto my podcast, Palestine Speaks. We sat down and had a deep, real conversation about what he’s going through, how it’s affecting him, and why he keeps going despite everything.
I hope you’ll listen. It’s one of the most powerful conversations I’ve had on the show.
What You Can Do to Help
Steve has always shown up for others. Now it's our turn.
1. Show Up in Court – May 12, Chicago
If you’re nearby, please attend the trial. Court support matters. A full courtroom sends a powerful message to the judge—and it lets Steve know he’s not alone.
2. Share This Story
Don’t let this get buried. Share his videos, my videos, and this post. Tell people who Steve is and what he’s done. The more we amplify, the more protection we build around him.
3. Donate What You Can
Steve is covering his own travel, food, and housing in Chicago. Legal battles are expensive and exhausting. If he’s ever made you feel seen or inspired—please help lighten his load.
Donate to Steve here:
CashApp: $SteveOsan1
4. Speak Out Loudly & Unapologetically
Call your reps. Tag human rights organizations. Demand justice. Use your platform, your voice, your art—whatever you’ve got. The louder we are, the harder it is to ignore this.
Final Thoughts
Steve recently said something that broke my heart:
“Finances aren’t the most important—I just want emotional support.” - SteveO
He isn’t asking for a handout. He’s asking to be held by the very community he’s given everything to.
He shows up for us. He shows up for Palestine. He shows up when it’s hard, when it’s thankless, when it’s dangerous.
Now it’s our turn to show up for him.
Please share this blog post. Please listen to our podcast conversation. And most importantly—please don’t let Steve fight this alone.
