Our Logo

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Our logo is more than a mere symbol. It embodies the essence of an indigenous Bedouin tattoo that traditionally marked the chins of notable women such as Amal’s grandmother, PLEDJ’s founder. She taught Amal, that “A free woman has nothing to fear!” (Al-huura ma betkhaaf), a philosophy that has  profoundly influenced Amal’s  life by encouraging her to “think freely and act responsibly” (Hope is a Woman’s Name, Amal Elsana Alhjooj, p.400).

At the heart of the design is an olive tree. Native to Palestine, olive trees have been a cornerstone of the region for thousands of years. The olive harvest is a time-honored community  event that brings families together in the fields to pick olives while celebrating and singing. Some olive trees are still standing today at over 100 years old and have come to stand as a testament to resilience, resistance, life and growth in this part of the world. 

Enclosing the olive tree are two Bedouin tents which were customarily woven from a mix of goat and sheep hair by women. Tents have both a functional and symbolic place amongst Bedouin peoples. Some were shared by families, some were gathering spaces where tribal matters were discussed, and others were used by shepherds while herding livestock in the desert. However, tents are more than  places made to adapt to the open and harsh landscapes in which they are built, they are  vibrant social spaces where knowledge is constantly produced and shared, and bonds between people are created and strengthened. 

The deep, rich red of our logo also pays homage to the traditional hues of Bedouin embroidery, a craft that is passed down by the women in the family to the girls. “In traditional Bedouin society, embroidery allowed women self-expression and added color and beauty above and beyond their daily chores.”(The Tradition And Significance Of Bedouin Embroidery, Desert Embroidery). 

In all, PLEDJ’s new logo is a visual story of where we've come from and where we're headed. It reflects the intertwining of indigenous knowledge with present-day community action. In embracing the symbolism of Amal's grandmother's tattoo, we honor the rebellious spirit of those who have fought for justice before us. We also pay homage to: the steadfastness (samood) of the olive tree; the openness for learning and exchange that tents provided; and the embroidered  ties of collaboration made by indigenous women  throughout the world, who have long-served their communities through innovative leadership and the sharing of knowledge.