Edit: Get a free waterproof watermelon sticker 75mm x 32mm with every pin ordered!

The watermelon has often been used by artists to symbolise Palestine because its colours represent the country’s flag and there was a time when displaying the Palestinian flag was banned. It has been used to show solidarity across the globe.

There are no easy answers to the terrible situation in the Middle East. But it surely all starts with a ceasefire. A ceasefire, the return of hostages, the resumption of safe humanitarian supplies getting to the millions who desperately need food and medicine.

But that will only be the start. We’ve seen over countless decades how tentative peace has been shattered and diplomatic efforts have crumbled. It’s hard to see how people in power will ever get round a table again.

I’ve donated where I can to emergency appeals, but the more I read into where best to send funds, the more I come back to the children. Born into a cycle of fear and hatred and mistrust, if their needs- physical and psychological are not met, we just allow the cycle to continue. I wanted to make something to raise money for the children now and for those in the future.

I hope I’ve chosen two of the best places for this fundraiser. I know it’ll only be a drop in the ocean but it’s way more than I could afford to give on my own.

The first charity is the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund- “PCRF is the primary humanitarian organization in Palestine, delivering crucial and life-saving medical relief and humanitarian aid where it is needed most.  Access to essential resources like food, clean water, and healthcare is severely limited.” This donation will go towards immediate assistance now and immediately following a ceasefire.

The second organisation is Hand In Hand “Hand in Hand is building inclusion and equality between Arab and Jewish citizens of Israel through a growing network of bilingual, integrated schools and communities.” Education and empathy is at the heart of what they do and surely must be the way to break the conflict cycle.

The hope is to be able to raise £500 to share between the groups.

These gorgeous watermelon pins- with the pips replaced by letters which spell out ‘everyone deserves a chance to be free’ are made in sustainable ply by the wonderful Lightning Laser team in Gloucestershire.

There was a slight delay in the post, but I’ve received all the watermelons now and am constructing them as quickly as I can!

Hopefully this little visible sign of support worn on your coat will spark conversation, donation and awareness.

Dimensions

Approx 50mm x 25mm x 3mm in poplar plywood. Two metal pins and rubber clutches.

You can purchase metal locking clutches here if you’re putting the pin on a bag or somewhere that will need extra protection to keep it secured. There are two pins on the back of the watermelon.

Packaged without plastic, made in the uk, free 48hr p+p on all orders over £35.