From Her Hands: International Womens Day Iftar For Gaza

This International Women’s Day, we return for our second annual Iftar, inviting everyone to gather in solidarity with Gaza for a fundraiser that celebrates the life-shaping creations of Palestinian women, centering them not only as survivors, but as leaders, caregivers, and keepers of collective life. Presented by Glia and Mamas4Palestine, "From Her Hands" honours the role women have played in creating and sustaining Palestinian heritage across generations, carrying what came before while shaping what is still to come.

Set within Hamilton's historic landmark: The Cotton Factory, once a place where textile work sustained community life and now a space rooted in creativity and gathering, the evening is grounded in the enduring spirit of shared work and collective care.

In the spirit of Ramadan, a time of reflection and meaningful presence, we will break bread together over a traditional Palestinian meal, engage with artistic creation and storytelling, and learn from a panel of Palestinian women alongside women allies bringing expertise from across fields.

Kids are very welcome! We’ll have a kids’ area with activities, plus cheese pizza available as an option for dinner.

Evening Program

4:00 PM | Doors Open
Guests are invited to arrive early to connect with speakers and explore Palestinian-owned businesses.

5:00 PM | Welcome
Opening remarks from Glia Equal Care and Mamas4Palestine, setting the intention for the evening.

5:15 PM | Speech on Medical Aid in Gaza
A talk by Dr. Dorotea Gucciardo on the realities of medical care and Glia's aid projects in Gaza.

5:35 PM | Live Fundraiser
A collective fundraising moment, reflecting on healthcare as solidarity and resistance.

6:10 PM | Maqluba Flip
A shared moment marking the transition into the evening, followed by Maghrib prayer.

6:25 PM | Palestinian Iftar
Guests gather for a traditional Palestinian Iftar, shared in community.

7:15 PM | Jenan Story Time
Story time 

7:30 PM | Panel Conversation + Q&A
A moderated discussion that honours the ways women preserve dignity, hope, and continuity in their communities, grounded in the long-standing practices Palestinian women have used to keep their way of life alive, despite sustained attempts to erase it.

Panelists:

• Jenan Matari: 4x award-winning Palestinian American writer, media strategist, and author
• Noora Sharrab: Palestinian CEO of Sitti Social Enterprise and community organizer.
• Dr. Dorotea Gucciardo: Medical Envoy in Gaza, Researcher, and Director of Development at Glia.
  

8:30 PM | Art Auction
A curated art auction featuring donated works by artists in solidarity with Gaza.

9:00 PM | Closing & Community TimeClosing reflections, with an invitation to stay, connect, and continue conversations.

Location

The Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman Ave N, Hamilton, ON L8L 6N4