Resolute RGL: The Story Behind the Shoes Palestinian Filmmaker Basel Adra Wore to the Oscars
At the 97th Academy Awards, Palestinian filmmaker Basel Adra made a powerful statement by wearing handcrafted shoes from Resolute RGL, a brand he co-founded. His choice was not just about fashion—it was about heritage, resistance, and economic empowerment.
Birth of Resolute RGL
- Resolute RGL was founded by Basel Adra and his parents with a clear mission: to preserve Palestinian culture through fashion while supporting local artisans.
- The brand draws inspiration from Palestinian resilience and heritage, with each piece reflecting the struggle and beauty of their homeland.
- The name "Resolute" symbolizes the unwavering strength of the Palestinian people, while "RGL" (short for "Ragel") is derived from the Arabic word for "man," emphasizing dignity and perseverance.
A Fashion Statement with a Deeper Purpose
- Tatreez embroidery—a centuries-old Palestinian craft—was the highlight of the shoes Adra wore.
- The embroidery was done by women artisans from Masafer Yatta, South Hebron Hills, where Adra himself grew up.
- By incorporating Tatreez into high-quality leather shoes, Resolute RGL connects tradition with modern style, ensuring that Palestinian heritage remains alive and relevant.
Empowering Palestinian Women
- The brand works directly with the Palestinian Women's Weaving Cooperative, offering them financial independence and a global platform for their craft.
- Many of these women face occupation-related hardships, and Resolute RGL provides them with a way to preserve their identity and earn a living.
- Each pair of shoes tells a story of resistance, resilience, and artistry.
The Oscars Moment: More Than Just Shoes
- When Basel Adra stepped onto the red carpet in Resolute RGL shoes, he carried a piece of his homeland with him.
- His film, No Other Land, won Best Documentary Short, and his shoes became a symbol of Palestinian perseverance.
- The moment was both a personal and collective victory, showcasing Palestinian culture on one of the world’s biggest stages.
Resolute RGL: A Movement, Not Just a Brand
- The brand’s Tatreez Collection is now available for pre-order, allowing supporters to own a piece of Palestinian craftsmanship.
- Resolute RGL is not just about shoes—it’s about heritage, identity, and ethical fashion.
- Every purchase helps sustain Palestinian artisans and challenge cultural erasure.
Conclusion: Walking with Purpose
Basel Adra and Resolute RGL are proving that fashion can be a powerful tool for storytelling and activism. His Oscars appearance wasn’t just about winning a gold statue—it was about honoring his homeland, his people, and the skilled hands that embroidered every stitch of his shoes.
With each step, Resolute RGL continues to walk the path of culture, resistance, and hope—one handcrafted shoe at a time.
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