When Glamour magazine unveiled its 2025 “Women of the Year” list, the announcement felt less like a celebrity roundup and more like a statement of conscience. This year, YouTube educator Ms. Rachel and actress Rachel Zegler were recognized for courageously speaking out on Gaza, standing for humanity, and advocating for the safety of children in conflict zones.
Standing Up Amid Silence
At a time when many public figures have remained silent about Israel’s actions in Gaza, Ms. Rachel and Zegler have used their platforms to highlight the suffering of Palestinians. Rachel Accurso, better known as Ms. Rachel, is a 42-year-old educator beloved by millions of toddlers and parents for her sing-along videos and signature pink shirts. In recent months, she has also become known for her outspoken support for Gaza, emphasizing the protection of innocent children.
Across social media, fans praised the recognition. “Glamour having Ms. Rachel as Woman of the Year really warmed my heart,” one post read. Another wrote, “She’s using her massive platform to change people’s perspectives on what’s happening in Gaza. She deserves this!” The honor is seen as validation after Ms. Rachel faced months of online backlash for her stance amid a conflict recognized by the United Nations as a genocide, with tens of thousands of Palestinians killed or injured.
“I often think about what kind of pain I’d feel if I didn’t speak up and could have helped,” Ms. Rachel said during a podcast, underscoring her commitment to advocacy alongside her educational work.
Courage in the Face of Criticism
Rachel Zegler, acclaimed for her roles in Snow White and The Hunger Games, has faced similar criticism for her pro-Palestinian posts. Reports in March 2024 revealed Disney executives attempted to silence her after she tweeted “and always remember, free Palestine.” Zegler refused to retract her statement, despite pressure from film producers and negative social media campaigns linking her posts to box office performance.
The recognition by Glamour resonates with audiences frustrated by celebrity silence. For many, it signals a cultural shift where moral clarity is celebrated rather than punished. The honor comes at a time when activists, educators, and public figures supporting Gaza often face censorship, online harassment, and professional backlash.
Ms. Rachel’s advocacy recently gained further attention when she shared a tearful video about attempting to host a party for Rahaf, a double-amputee Palestinian child who survived Israeli airstrikes, only to be rejected by three venues. The post went viral, highlighting systemic barriers and sparking a wave of public support.
From Nursery Teacher to Symbol of Empathy
For Ms. Rachel, recognition by Glamour marks a remarkable evolution. What began as educational content for her son’s speech development has grown into a platform for empathy and global awareness. Alongside Zegler, she embodies a generation of public figures willing to speak boldly on humanitarian issues, inspiring parents, children, and fans worldwide.
Their celebration is part of a wider cultural wave, from student walkouts and film-festival protests to musicians wearing symbolic pins, reflecting growing solidarity with Palestinian rights. In a landscape where silence is often the default, the recognition of Ms. Rachel and Zegler highlights that compassion, courage, and moral clarity can still command attention—and even trend.
