Palestinian Women Who Built Institutions That Still Stand

Palestinian history is often told through its men. But many of the schools, charities and cultural institutions that hold Palestinian society together were founded and run by women.

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Hind al-Husseini

In 1948, Hind al-Husseini took in dozens of orphaned children in Jerusalem and founded Dar al-Tifl al-Arabi, the Arab Children's Home. It grew into a school and later a college, and it still educates Palestinian girls today.

Samiha Khalil

Samiha Khalil founded the In'ash el-Usra society in al-Bireh in 1965. It trained women in embroidery, sewing and other skills, helped families earn an income and preserved traditional tatreez patterns. In 1996 she became the first woman to run for president of the Palestinian Authority.

Fadwa Tuqan

The poet Fadwa Tuqan broke through the expectations placed on women of her generation in Nablus and became one of the most celebrated voices in Arabic poetry.

A tradition that continues

Today Palestinian women lead universities, medical teams, cultural centres and businesses, in Palestine and in the diaspora, including many here in Britain. Their work is part of how Palestinian identity is kept alive.

Our Palestinian Girls design celebrates that strength and pride, on sweatshirts, hoodies and tees.