What does HAMSA mean?
HAMSA stands for the “Hands Across the Mideast Support Alliance.” The hamsa is one of the world’s oldest icons. A five-finger hand, the image draws its name from the Arabic word for “five” and its symbolism pre-dates the rise of monotheism. Powers of healing and protection are ascribed to this traditional Middle Eastern amulet, which is placed on doors, walls, and necklaces across the region. HAMSA aims to help Americans and Middle Easterners join hands in the struggle for civil rights; to help heal the pain of repression; and to help protect reformers who speak out at great personal risk.
