Volunteers knit Selbuvotter in Palestinian colors to support Gaza amid ongoing conflict

Jorun Husdal is one of over 100 volunteers knitting and selling Selbuvotter—traditional Norwegian mittens—in Palestinian colors to raise funds for those affected by the ongoing war in Gaza. Having been on sick leave since last year, Husdal struggled to find meaningful activities but realized her ability to knit could make a difference.

Inspired by a friend, she joined the “Selbuvotter for Peace” project in March and has since knitted and sold over 50 pairs. The initiative was started by Iffit Sætre Qureshi after she attended a demonstration against the war in Gaza, where she saw mittens in various colors and thought of creating a pair in Palestinian colors.

Despite her limited experience with mittens, Qureshi posted her initial attempts on social media, leading to an overwhelming response of 40 orders. This momentum has continued, with contributions from over 100 individuals nationwide, generating donations totaling nearly half a million Norwegian kroner.

To acquire the mittens, customers are required to make a monetary contribution to cover yarn costs and donate 600 Norwegian kroner to a charity organization operating in Gaza. Qureshi has selected reputable organizations that prioritize aid directly to those in need.

The project has garnered support, including from Doctors Without Borders, whose Secretary General, Lindis Hurum, emphasized the potential of individual efforts to make a real difference. Husdal expresses her feelings of helplessness upon seeing news from the Middle East but values the impact of knitting mittens, which also raise awareness. Together, the volunteers and organizations aim to highlight the stories of Palestinians, offering a tangible symbol of protest against the ongoing conflict.