Threads of hope: Women in Hebron and the power of solidarity | Article | News | UNISON National

Threads of Hope: Women in Hebron and the Power of Solidarity

UNISON president Catherine McKenna met Nawal Slemiah, founder of Women in Hebron, a fair-trade cooperative that provides women in Palestine with a chance to work and support their families.

Catherine McKenna visited Palestine in 2019, but what she saw exceeded her expectations.

I knew about walls. I come from west Belfast – we have the walls, but I can walk around them. There shouldn’t be any walls in any cities dividing people.

In Hebron, Catherine witnessed devastation, including soldiers, checkpoints, and separation.

A lot of the women were talking about how their husbands are in prison and unable to provide for their families. It hit me how strong these women were.

Nawal Slemiah, founder of Women in Hebron, shared her story.

My life was very hard.

Catherine McKenna's visit highlighted the power of solidarity and the importance of supporting women in Palestine.

Author's summary: Women in Hebron cooperative brings hope to Palestinian families.

more

UNISON UNISON — 2025-10-30