A Melksham resident is raising funds for Palestinians affected by the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict by selling a variety of fair trade goods.
Joan Phelan, along with a friend, sells fair trade Palestinian products – including olive oil, dates, almonds and nuts – at events across the area.
“All the goods we sell are fair trade and directly support Palestinian farmers and their families,” Joan said. “We’re often invited to set up our stall at fair trade and Palestine-focused events. We’ve been especially active recently because of everything that’s been happening.”
Joan’s connection with Palestine began during her university years in 1991 when she spent time in the region. She said, “Friends of Birzeit University in Palestine had asked universities here to send representatives to see how education was being impacted during that time.
“You get to know people when you travel there. I have friends in Palestine, and I haven’t heard from them. I don’t know if they’re dead or alive now,” Joan added.
Pictured: Joan, right, with Ali Morgan from Frome Friends of Palestine
