S5E9. A Modern Silk Road with Maki & Hanin

MAKI IS THE FOUNDER OF THE PALESTINIAN OBI PROJECT (@palestinian_embroidery_obi), BLENDING TATREEZ WITH THE JAPANESE KIMONO AFTER EXPERIENCING PALESTINIAN LIFE AND HOSPITALITY. HANIN IS A MUSLIM-PALESTINIAN AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZER BASED IN TOKYO (@hanin.gaza.jp).

In this episode, we explore how Maki’s visits to Palestine over the last decade led to a cultural exchange project that bridges Japanese and Palestinian craft traditions. Working with Palestinian women artisans, the obi belts have become both art and quiet activism—sparking conversations about history, identity, and occupation.

Hanin shares how tatreez remains a grounding practice and a form of cultural preservation in times of war, while her organizing connects fundraising, political education, and community storytelling. Together, they show how tatreez continues to live, adapt, and resist.

Connect via Instagram to buy an obi, stay updated on events, and get involved with Hanin’s work.

You’ll hear about:

>> 1:07: Hanin & Maki-San’s connections to Palestine

>> 5:24: Maki’s introduction to tatreez and the inspiration to blend with the Japanese kimono

>> 8:06: Hanin’s tatreez journey

>> 12:10: The Palestinian Obi Project, their customers, and exhibitions

>> 18:15: How Hanin got involved with the Palestinian Obi Project

>> 24:43: The people and the process behind the embroidered obis

>> 27:44: Impact of the genocide (and COVID) on the production process

>> 30:31: Tatreez shaping activism in Japan, both silent and loud 

>> 41:41: Goals for the Palestinian Obi Project and what’s next

>> 49:30: Major life lesson from tatreez

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Links Mentioned (Palestinian Tatreez Cooperatives)

>> [Gaza] Atfaluna

>> [Gaza] Sulafa

>> [West Bank] Society of Inaash AlUsra

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