Join us on Thursday, December 19th to observe Yalda (winter solstice) and to be in community with others who have a common wish: an end to the genocide in Gaza! As people across western and central Asia and in diaspora get together with friends and family to break bread, read poetry, tell stories, sing, dance, and wish for light, we will gather to stand in solidarity with our relatives in Gaza. This is the second year that we observe Yalda during a devastating genocide in Gaza. It is hard to believe that this genocide has been going on for 14 months. But we will not stop fighting until Palestine is free! Like last year, we will hold a fundraiser to support our siblings in Gaza and to wish for a free Palestine. All the proceeds from this year's fundraiser will go directly to the Gaza Emergency program at the Middle East Children’s Alliance to support Gazan families and to procure emergency medical supplies for hospitals and clinics. We are grateful to generous artist friends who have donated their time and talent. We are proud to feature performances by the Minneapolis-based Iranian music artist, Aida Shahghasemi, Palestinian dance artist, Leila Awadallah, and the YallaDrum musicians. Brilliant local poets such as Sagirah Shahid and Christine Harb will read their poetry, and we will recite Hafez poetry, as it is customary in Iran and Afghanistan. There will be beautiful art for sale by our generous local artists such as Katayoun Amjadi and Sean Lim, and a silent auction with art pieces by Ashley Taylor Gougé, Brook Bartholomew, and others. Palestinian olive oil, Free Palestine sweatshirts, and other swag will be available for purchase as well. Indulge in delicious home-made Iranian food, and Palestinian food made by our friends at Baba’s restaurant. Food for purchase includes: osh reshteh, sholleh zard, jewel rice with chicken, hummus, falafel, pita puffs, fattoush, La La Labneh, tea and cookies. We will also have complimentary dried Fruits and nuts, pomegranates, and watermelons to share with you. The red color in fruits symbolizes life and warmth. Entrance fee: $12 Thursday, December 19, 6-9 pm Open Book 1011 Washington Ave S., Minneapolis This fundraiser is a collaboration between a group of Twin Cities Iranian and Afghan community members, UMN Educators for Justice in Palestine, the New Arab American Theater Works, Mizna, Baba's Hummus House, and Grief and Rage Circle.