Ms. Rachel Advocates for Palestinian Children’s Rights

Ms. Rachel is amplifying the voices of Palestinian children through her latest project, “Light From Palestine.” This short film presents a series of powerful audiovisual projections featuring animations of drawings created by children affected by the conflict in Gaza. The project was developed by Tre Borden /Co, in collaboration with the producers of the award-winning documentary “The Voice of Hind Rajab.”

Ms. Rachel’s Advocacy for Palestinian Children’s Rights

Real name Rachel Griffin Accurso, Ms. Rachel is a dedicated advocate for Palestinian children’s rights. In 2024, she successfully raised over $50,000 for Save the Children, benefiting children in conflict zones such as Gaza, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ukraine. Highlights of her activism include featuring Rahaf, a toddler who tragically lost both legs in an Israeli air strike, on her channels.

Artistic Expression Amidst Conflict

During Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards, Accurso donned a gown adorned with artwork created by Gazan children. Her commitment to supporting the war’s most vulnerable victims has sparked criticism from certain factions, accusing her of being pro-Hamas and antisemitic.

• The film incorporates poignant messages from young artists in Gaza.
• One notable quote is from 9-year-old Shahed: “I lost 18 members of my family in the house that day … I am still afraid.”
• Another message from 12-year-old Ahmed conveys the devastation: “Our house is gone. I’ll live in a tent. I want to go home.”

The animations also include tributes to Hind Rajab, a five-year-old Palestinian girl who was tragically killed by Israeli forces in early 2024. The documentary covering her story earned the Grand Jury Prize at the 2025 Venice Film Festival and was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Non–English Language.

Exhibitions and Fundraising Efforts

In addition to the film, Accurso recently organized “Colors That Survived,” a one-day exhibition at Caelum Gallery in New York City. This exhibit features artworks by Gazan children and has raised approximately $70,000, with all proceeds directed toward supporting young Palestinian artists. Accurso expressed her deep connection with the children from Gaza: “They share their powerful art, stories, and hopes for the future with such courage in the face of unimaginable hardship.”

Ms. Rachel continues to advocate for Palestinian children’s rights through art and fundraising, showcasing resilience and creativity amidst adversity.