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The performances by Alzinaty and Asfour showcased some of the most cutting edge music by Palestinian artists and delivered a powerful political message. Known as "Palestine's First Lady of R&B," Alzinaty was recently featured in the award-winning documentary Slingshot Hip Hop, which follows the lives of the artists who started the Palestinian hip-hop scene. Asfour, a graduate student at George Washington University, gave an acoustic performance that was both heartfelt and moving.
What Are Organizers Saying?Concert proceeds generated $2,200, while Bossa Lounge contributed another $800 to this historic endeavor. Both Left Turn and Hope From People have been consistent and unwavering in their support for Gaza's civilian population.
"The one suggestion I have for someone who wants to hold a similar event is to not underestimate the number of people (and kinds of people) who will come out to such an event and don't underestimate how much they will donate. Try to make what people are donating money towards as concrete as possible."
— Rami Elamine, event organizer
Who Benefited?
Proceeds from Free Gaza Now helped UPA feed more than 400 people who have lost their homes and livelihoods: People like the 60 members of the extended Shurrab family, who have taken refuge together in one ramshackle space in Gaza's largest refugee camp.
They have been afraid to leave, even for food, especially after two of their own—a 27-year-old and his 17-year-old brother—were killed on January 17th. They sustained massive injuries from an Israeli attack and bled to death after being denied transport to a hospital for 24 hours. Read more about the Shurrab family in the Chicago Tribune.
