Ms. Rachel: Advocating for Gaza’s Children at the Cost of Her Career
In a bold statement of solidarity, renowned children’s educator and YouTube sensation Rachel Griffin Accurso, better known as Ms. Rachel, has declared her commitment to advocating for the children of Gaza, even if it means risking her professional future. With millions of viewers tuning into her engaging and educational content, her voice carries significant weight in global conversations around child welfare, and she is determined to use it.
In a recent interview with WBUR—a Boston-based public radio outlet—Accurso revealed the backlash she has encountered after raising awareness about the dire situation in Gaza. With reports indicating over 54,000 lives lost due to Israel’s continuous military operations, the urgency of her message cannot be overstated. However, Accurso remains steadfast in her belief that children’s welfare should always come first. “I wouldn’t be Ms. Rachel if I didn’t deeply care about all kids,” she stated emphatically. “I would risk everything, and I will risk my career over and over to stand up for them. It’s all about the kids for me.”
Accurso highlighted the grim reality in Gaza, described by the United Nations as “the hungriest place on Earth.” With the population facing an imminent risk of famine, she has encountered heartbreaking stories from Palestinian families. She recalled an emotional meeting with a mother who was video calling her boys in Gaza, expressing her anguish over their lack of food. “When you sit with someone who is in that situation, it really impacts you,” she reflected. “I felt a strong need to do everything within my power to help.”
Despite the challenges, including criticism from various media outlets and advocacy groups, Accurso persists with her mission. In April, she faced calls for investigation from a pro-Israel organization, but she remains focused on her core values. “It’s really painful,” Accurso acknowledged in response to the negativity. “People may not understand my heart, but I know who I am. My commitment to all children is unwavering, regardless of where they come from.”
Her dedication extends beyond words. In May 2024, she faced significant backlash after launching a fundraiser to support children in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This initiative was a reflection of her broader commitment to humanitarian causes. Earlier this year, Accurso made headlines when she donated $1 million to World Food Program USA, assisting efforts to provide meals to
