Archewell Foundation cuts funding to Muslim women's group after pro-Palestinian remarks

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archewell Foundation has cut ties with the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition (MMWC) after learning that its founder, Janan Najeeb, made public statements describing Israel as an 'apartheid state' and calling for the 'liberation of Palestine.' The foundation had previously donated two grants totaling around $55,700 to the MMWC since 2023, primarily to support Afghan women in Milwaukee. The decision to end donations came after US broadcaster NewsNation alerted Archewell to Najeeb’s pro-Palestinian remarks, which included use of the slogan 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.' In a letter to Najeeb, Archewell stated that her comments conflicted with the foundation’s values, emphasizing a commitment to diversity but 'zero tolerance for hateful words, actions or propaganda.' Archewell clarified it was unaware of the statements before being contacted and expressed pride in its work supporting women in Milwaukee. The move highlights the foundation's stance on aligning partnerships with its stated values.