KUWAIT CITY — An art exhibition commemorating the National Day of Palestinian Women was held at Kuwait’s Museum of Contemporary Art on October 26, highlighting the vital role of Palestinian women in both society and the national struggle. The event also paid tribute to the work of artist Suleiman Mansour and marked the anniversary of the first Palestinian Women’s Conference held in Jerusalem in 1929.
Rami Tahboub, Palestine’s ambassador to Kuwait, emphasized the central position of women in Palestinian society, describing them as its foundation, source of strength, and soul. He linked their rights inseparably to the broader Palestinian quest for liberation, freedom, and dignity. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the longstanding political activism of Palestinian women, who have been instrumental in resisting occupation and defending their homeland.
Tahboub noted that despite a high literacy rate of 97 percent among Palestinian women, they face significant barriers to economic participation. He attributed these challenges mainly to the ongoing violence associated with the Israeli occupation and a marked rise in unemployment, factors that constrain their opportunities in the labor market. He stressed that the struggle for women’s rights in Palestine remains deeply intertwined with the national liberation movement and pointed to persistent social stereotypes and issues that further affect their status and wellbeing.
Echoing these sentiments, Rima Al-Khalidi, wife of the ambassador, highlighted the resilience and vital contributions of Palestinian women in building society despite the daily hardships imposed by the occupation. She urged against framing Palestinian women’s stories solely around suffering, emphasizing their strength, generosity, and achievements.
Al-Khalidi also raised concerns about how social media can distort public perception by mixing news with entertainment, thereby diminishing the human reality behind reports from Palestine. She expressed hope that the exhibition would help refocus attention on the authentic experiences and inspiring journeys of Palestinian women.
Sharing her personal experience, Al-Khalidi recounted the anxiety of accompanying her eldest child to school, fearful of potential Israeli soldier searches—a daily reality for many families that underscores ongoing concerns about security and freedom.
As part of the event, Al-Khalidi presented stories of 42 Palestinian women spanning from the British Mandate era to the present. These women come from various generations and professional backgrounds, offering a cross-section of the many contributions Palestinian women have made and continue to make in society. She expressed the hope that the exhibition would serve as a starting point for further exploration of Palestinian women’s enduring legacy and achievements.