Celebrated educator and advocate Rachel Griffin Accurso, also known as Ms. Rachel, is actively promoting the rights of Palestinian children impacted by conflict. She has participated in a new short film, *Light From Palestine*, which showcases the artwork and messages of Gazan children affected by the ongoing war.
Highlighting Palestinian Children’s Stories
The creative studio Tre Borden / Co produced *Light From Palestine*, collaborating with the team behind the acclaimed documentary *The Voice of Hind Rajab*. The short film features large-scale audiovisual projections of animations based on drawings by children in Gaza. Accurso has played a pivotal role in curating the project, which was projected in various prominent locations across New York and Los Angeles.
Fundraising Efforts for Children in Conflict Zones
In her unwavering support for those in crisis, Ms. Rachel raised over $50,000 in 2024 for Save the Children. The funds are designated for children in conflict zones, including Gaza, Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ukraine.
Art Exhibitions and Personal Connections
Recently, Accurso organized a one-day exhibition titled “Colors That Survived” at Caelum Gallery in New York City, featuring works by Gazan children. So far, the exhibition has raised approximately $70,000, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting young Palestinian artists. “Connecting with these incredible children from Gaza has changed me forever,” she expressed.
Voices from Gaza
The film *Light From Palestine* presents powerful narratives from young artists. Notably, 9-year-old Shahed expressed sorrow over losing 18 family members in a devastating event. Similarly, 12-year-old Ahmed shared his plight after losing his home. Their art reflects the harsh realities and ongoing hardships faced by families in Gaza.
Recognition of Advocacy Work
Accurso has faced backlash for her activism, with some critics labeling her as pro-Hamas and antisemitic. Nevertheless, her commitment to advocating for the rights of Palestinian children remains strong. Her efforts continue to draw attention to the struggles faced by the most vulnerable populations in conflict zones.
A Bright Spot in a Difficult Time
The animations in *Light From Palestine* integrate poignant images from the life of Hind Rajab, a young girl whose tragic death garnered international attention. This documentary won the Grand Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival in 2025 and received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language. It is currently nominated for an Oscar in the Best International Feature Film category.
Through projects like *Light From Palestine* and various fundraising initiatives, Ms. Rachel continues to advocate relentlessly for the rights of Palestinian children, shedding light on their stories and fostering connections despite the adversities they face.
