Cedars Mediterranean Kitchen, a Palestinian-American family restaurant in Hyde Park, Chicago, launched a series of fundraisers on October 18 to contribute to humanitarian aid in Gaza amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
The initial fundraising event at the restaurant enabled customers to donate directly to the owner, Amer Abdullah. The targeted goal of $10,000 was surpassed, with the restaurant raising $15,072 for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, as reported by Eater Chicago. Four Cedars employees also contributed their daily wages to the fund.
Given the success of the first event, the team at Cedars plans to extend the fundraising efforts through November. Every Wednesday, half the proceeds from a special menu will be donated for humanitarian aid in Gaza. This recurring initiative has been named "Ceasefire November".
Abdullah's campaign will also support other organizations such as the Red Cross and various peace-seeking Jewish groups including Jewish Voice for Peace, IfNotNow, Breaking the Silence, and B'tselem. The extension of beneficiaries was detailed in an Eater Chicago article.
Aside from his restaurant business, Abdullah, a participant in the U.S. Department of State-run Citizen Diplomacy Program, dedicated effort to coaching Palestinian entrepreneurs in the West Bank in 2012. These undertakings, linked with his comprehensive understanding of the region’s history and culture, drive Abdullah's activism.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas reached a deadly peak on October 7 with a Hamas-launched attack on Israel, resulting in significant casualties and hostages. Israeli retaliatory strikes compounded the escalating situation, especially in Gaza. The overall toll exceeded 8,500 victims, with children being the most affected, as mentioned by the Hyde Park Herald.
Although some business owners have been advised to avoid personal statements related to the conflict, others like S2 Grille, have chosen to publicly support the cause. Abdullah is hopeful to partner with more Palestinian and Jewish restaurants in their collective efforts to provide humanitarian aid, using food to unite communities.
In an Eater Chicago article, Abdullah expressed, "I think the reality is there are ways to speak about this and maintain a connection with human beings if the right communities and people come together," capturing his commitment to fostering unity and empathy through his efforts.
