Hand-embroidered Palestinian Bundle

This bundle is comprised of a lovely a pillow case (17 X 16.5 in), a bookmark (8 X 1 inches), and two sets of barrettes. All items are handmade and hand-embroidered in the traditional Palestinian Tatreez. This bundle is donated by Joanna Hiebert Bergen. Location Winnipeg, MB.

Joanna writes, “The bookmark was made in Gaza through Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children, a registered Palestinian NGO located in Gaza City. Before the war on Gaza, 134 staff members—55% of whom are deaf—worked to offer education, audiology, speech therapy, income generating and vocational training; parents’, teachers’ and community training and awareness programs, and a host of other services and programs. Over the years, I have enjoyed delicious food at their beautiful restaurant which employed people with hearing disabilities and purchased many bookmarks as gifts for family and friends. The beautiful Palestinian embroidery tucked into a favourite book or a current read constantly reminds me of the people of Gaza, their creativity, their love of life and all things beautiful, the skills they share and the care offered to those within the community that have diverse needs. Now in this desperate time, when so much has been taken from them in the genocide, the people continue to struggle for life. Atfaluna recently relocated staff and crafters to various locations throughout Gaza to continue the work of life.

“I have numerous beautiful pillowcases from Palestine scattered throughout my home. Each one is a work of art. The colours leap out and speak to the vibrancy of Palestinian culture and the creative nature and skill with which the women of Palestine stitch life. This particular pillowcase was bought in 2023 when my daughter Chloe and I spend 5 weeks living in Bethlehem while Chloe fulfilled a practicum in physiotherapy at Caritas Baby Hospital. It was a time to immerse ourselves briefly within the hospitality and vitality of life in the West Bank. Much, if not everything, has changed since then. Bethlehem is under siege and most Palestinians there have lost income and the freedom to move between villages in the West Bank. The women who embroidered these pillowcases are trapped, exhausted and afraid for their children and loved ones. The pillowcase reminds me of what was before 1948, what endured during the decades of Israeli occupation, and what continues amidst the struggle for freedom. It symbolizes a call to all of us to continue to act and advocate for a Free Palestine.