BONUS EPISODE: Why This Kickstarter Campaign is a Problem

March 10, 2025 · 37 min

This bonus episode comes from a place of urgency: A new Kickstarter campaign is exploiting Palestinian embroidery under the guise of collaboration. This isn’t just about tatreez—it’s about cultural appropriation and the systemic barriers Palestinian artisans face while others profit from our heritage.

Joining us are:

Bisan Alhajhasan – Lawyer & founder of Thobnah, a platform that shows Palestine through our thobes.Salma Shawa – Palestinian content creator from Gaza, whose work sheds light on the Palestinian experience through storytelling and advocacy.

You’ll hear about:

>> What this kickstarter is all about and what’s wrong with it

>> Cultural Exploitation & Appropriation

>> The ‘Collaboration’ Narrative

>> The Normalization Issue

>> Where Is the Money Going?

>> The impact of Israeli occupation on Palestinian artisans

>> Why Our Community Must Reject This Kickstarter

⚠️ CALL TO ACTION ⚠️

❌ WITHDRAW SUPPORT – If you backed this Kickstarter, cancel your pledge before the month ends.

📢 SPREAD THE WORD – Share this episode & talk about the issue.

🧵 SUPPORT PALESTINIAN ARTISANS – Buy directly from Palestinian creators.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform

“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!