Emel was recently unjustly fired from her job as an events coordinator for an independent bookstore in retaliation for programming a Palestinian-American children's book author for a storytime event at the store. Following several weeks of discriminatory harassment from her employer, Emel was fired due to the owner's personal dislike of her racial and religious identity and pro-Palestinian activism—NOT due to her work performance, for which she had only received positive feedback since joining the team in January.

Bookstores are meant to be sacred spaces where critical thinking and discourse can occur. This incident is just one of the countless examples of discrimination, censorship and silencing of pro-Palestinian voices and the weaponization of antisemitism to target and punish those who speak out against an ongoing genocide.

Emel could use some financial support while she gets back on her feet, and figures out her next steps. She has lost her only source of income and her healthcare, and these funds will assist with rent, bills and expenses for the next month or two.

Please help us help her.

In addition to standing up for marginalized people everywhere, Emel has also been fostering a small black Chihuahua named Prince, who is recovering from a fractured leg. She would love to help Prince find a safe and supportive forever home so she can go back to dog walking and pet sitting gigs to make a little money. Prince is a sweet, playful boy who takes his time in building trust with humans. If you or someone you know are looking for a furry companion, Emel would love to talk to you!

You can also support author Jenan Matari by purchasing her new children's book here .