The event hosted renowned Palestinian figures such as world-famous comedian Amer Zahr, poet Zeina Azzam, and lawyer Lamia Deek.

A documentary produced by KADEM, telling the stories of two Palestinian women artists, attracted great interest.

Attending the 69th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) in New York, KADEM organized the event “In Solidarity with Palestinians: Art as a Form of Resilience – II,” once again bringing global attention to the Palestinian people’s resistance through the unifying power of art.

Within the scope of CSW69, KADEM engaged in various activities in New York, highlighting the humanitarian crimes occurring in the region and emphasizing the power of art in social resistance through its Palestinian solidarity event.

Hosted by KADEM, “In Solidarity with Palestinians: Art as a Form of Resilience – II” focused on the role of art in social resistance. Through film screenings, poetry recitals, and artistic discussions, the event spotlighted the Palestinian struggle and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Resisting Through Art: The Story of Two Women

A short documentary screened at the event narrated the stories of two female artists from different parts of Palestine, once again demonstrating how art serves as a source of resistance and hope.

One of these artists, 25-year-old visual artist Emel Abu Sibah from Gaza, was shown painting on the last remaining wall standing among the ruins, evoking strong emotions among viewers. Her artwork, depicting a woman, conveyed messages of hope, faith, and resistance—forming a striking contrast with the destruction surrounding it. Through her art, Sibah delivers a powerful message: even amid devastation, life and hope persist.

The second artist featured in the film was Sadin Tavil, an 18-year-old qanun (traditional stringed instrument) player from Jerusalem. Through her music, she reflects her belief in the future and peace, contributing to the struggle of Palestinian women by harnessing the unifying power of art. Her melodies prove that even in the face of pain and loss, it is possible to hold onto life and sustain hope.

“Palestine is the Moral Responsibility of All Humanity”

KADEM Chairperson Saliha Okur Gümrükçüoğlu delivered the opening speech, emphasizing that KADEM not only works to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage but also contributes to the global fight for women’s rights and social justice.

The Art of Resistance, the Resistance of Art, and the Power of Sumud

The Palestinian Solidarity Program was moderated by Betül Özel Çiçek, KADEM’s Deputy General Manager. She underscored that for the Palestinian people, art is not just a form of expression but a fundamental pillar of their struggle for existence. She added: “In this context, one of the most powerful concepts of Palestinian identity stands out: Sumud.
For Palestinians, Sumud represents an unwavering attachment to their land, identity, and culture. It means resisting erasure, defying attempts to erase their heritage, and preserving a threatened legacy.
In this struggle, art becomes one of Sumud’s most powerful tools. Palestinian artists, poets, artisans, and musicians do more than narrate the past—they also shape the future. Amid destroyed cities and silenced voices, they build a collective memory through art, sending a clear message to the world: ‘We are here.’
Palestinian artists create not only to mourn the past but also to build the future. Their art is not just a means of remembrance—it is a tool for defiance, survival, and reconstruction. This is why the hope of the Palestinian people is not an abstract dream but a form of resistance, a Sumud that transcends despair. This hope is not merely about endurance—it is about reclaiming existence, preserving art, and defending identity against erasure. As KADEM, we will continue to support the spirit of Sumud and the transformative power of art.”

The Power of Poetry in Resistance: “Mothers Arrange Their Wounds at Night”

The voices of Palestinian poets resonated throughout the program.

Resisting with Humor

Palestinian-American comedian, writer, professor, and commentator Amer Zahr shared the struggles of the Palestinian people through the lens of women’s stories. He emphasized that comedy is not merely a tool for entertainment but also a powerful form of activism, frequently making the audience laugh while shedding light on the Palestinian struggle.

Law and Activism

The final guest speaker was Lamis Deek, a lawyer known for her advocacy of Palestinian and Arab human rights. She highlighted the human dimension of law and justice and discussed the significance of her work for the Palestinian people.
Deek summarized the systematic challenges Palestinians face globally, particularly legal and diplomatic obstacles. She also addressed how art and cultural heritage are deliberately targeted as part of ethnic cleansing strategies and spoke about legal approaches to protecting Palestinian cultural institutions and artworks from confiscation or destruction.

KADEM Stands with the Palestinian People

Committed to fighting against the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, KADEM organized the “Invisible Struggles and Brave Hearts: Being a Woman in Palestine demonstration at Times Square during last year’s 68th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, amplifying the voices of Palestinian women on the global stage.

KADEM has also launched awareness campaigns and fieldwork to expand the boycott of products supporting Israel. With 55 branches across Türkiye, KADEM organizes conferences, seminars, marches, and protests in support of the Palestinian cause and has filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court against Israeli government and military officials for war crimes and human rights violations.

Continuing to defend Palestinian rights on both national and international platforms, KADEM is also preparing for the post-ceasefire period.