Alternative Gift Guide for Peace

For the past 40 days, many of us have been following the bombing campaign on Gaza that have left more than 11000 civilians dead following the Hamas attacks on October 7th. While we mourn all civilian loss of life in Israel and Palestine, the collective punishment of civilians in Gaza is a war crime which has caused immense loss of life and suffering, with an ongoing and entirely avoidable humanitarian crisis due to the lack of fuel, electricity, food and water imposed by the Israeli government. UN experts have called on the international community to prevent genocide against the Palestinian people.

While we navigate this extremely dark chapter in modern history, many of us have been left heartbroken at the devastation and extreme hardship that is being endured in Gaza. It has been a comfort to see the solidarity of people from all walks of life, galvanising support at protests and on social media. It’s been especially heartwarming to see many small businesses speak out in support of a ceasefire, which is so desperately needed at the moment. With this in mind, this is an alternative gift guide to celebrate all those who stand for peace and have publicly called for ceasefire. It’s no surprise that many of these are ethical and sustainable brands who understand the importance of our collective humanity, stewardship of the environment and seeing the world through a critical lens.

I’ve chosen pieces that I especially loved but all of these shops have gifts for different price ranges so its worth having a browse! Please bear in mind this is not an exhaustive list and that the best way to show support is to continue to educate ourselves, lift Palestinian voices and raise awareness of what is happening.

Homeware

Also see Rumbelow Rooms – antique and vintage homeware

La Grosse Toile – beautiful antique French linens

Rosanna Morris lists lots of print makers in her fundraiser here

See tag #pottersforpalestine for Ceramics and Potmakers in support of Palestine

See tag #photographersforpeace, a united group of worldwide photographers calling for ceasefire

Palestine Art Relief fundraiser (now ended) listing lots of artists in support of Palestine

Fashion

Craft Supplies

Palestinian Owned Brands

Hirbawi – the last remaining Kufiya Factory in Palestine, based in Hebron
Handmade Palestine Ramallah based shop selling clothes, accessories and homeware
Nol Collective – Ramallah based sustainable fashion brand
Dar Collective – US based cultural merchandise
Hadeel.org Edinburgh based Fair Trade Palestinian goods, owned by Palcrafts charity

If you know of more Palestinian owned brands, please share and I will update the list.

Children

Wonderbooks Subscription from Save the Children teach children about the lives of children in other countries in an age appropriate way, includes a grown up’s guide and activities.

Books