As global protests intensify calls for a ceasefire amid Israel’s escalating offensive on Gaza, many are expressing solidarity by calling for boycotts, divestments and sanctions against Israel. The BDS movement is a Palestinian-led initiative to dismantle Israel’s international ties that provide cultural and economic support to the occupation of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
In recent years, the rise of BDS momentum has been paralleled by active efforts to support Palestinian businesses, highlighting the various challenges faced by Palestinian entrepreneurs and business owners anywhere in the world, including in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and Israel itself.
To do your part, here are six Palestinian businesses you can buy from to amplify the voices of Palestinians in occupation and exile.
Reemami
Founded in 2009, Reemami is a contemporary women’s fashion label by Palestinian-born Reema Al Banna, an award-winning designer based in the United Arab Emirates. From Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan to Bella Hadid, Reemami boasts an exceptional clientele in the fashion world, drawn to her cultural minimalism and sustainability statement.
Anat International
Anat International is a slow fashion clothing brand, founded in Gaza, Palestine. Despite frequent border closures and export restrictions, Anat has established her creative power, challenging the perception of Palestinian embroidery as “feminine”.
The brand is a joint venture of a mother-daughter duo, Muna Masri and Salma Shawa. Anat’s official Instagram account also regularly posts content to raise awareness about Israel’s atrocities against Palestinians.
Meera Adnan
Gaza City’s own Meera Adnan has emerged as a distinct voice in contemporary fashion with a focus on reclaiming narrative and drawing inspiration from religious, political and local influences. Presented by Meera Adnan Albaba, the label conjures up tradition to subvert ideas of gender and inclusion, showcasing the many layers of Palestinian culture.
Taqa
Aiming to revitalize traditional garment production with a modern twist, Taqa celebrates Palestinian heritage by casting a wider net into the rich heritage of the Arab region. The label’s main statement is to produce an ethical, slow-fashion clothing line that weaves Palestinian cross-stitch motifs into an elegant canvas.
Dar Noora
Noora Khalifeh skillfully combined her deep-rooted love of contemporary fashion with the rich tradition of Palestinian tatreez, an ancient form of embroidery. Drawing inspiration from her father’s souvenir shop located within the historic Old City of Al-Quds, Dar Noora encapsulates the vivid memories and cultural encounters that enriched Khalifeh’s childhood.
Not me
Spanning the hillside villages of Jerusalem and the busy hubs of Gaza, Ramallah and Bethlehem, Nol is a collaboration of local family businesses, specialist craft workshops and women’s cooperatives. The brand’s collection features timeless practices such as Palestinian hand embroidery and the ancient art of majdalawi weaving from Gaza.
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