If you’re coming to Israel as part of Birthright, please consider going to this event as well. It’ll help you see what Israel is really like in so many ways.
Here’s the info, taken from the Facebook page. If you’re truly interested in Israel, do check it out:
Want to see what a checkpoint or settlement actually looks like?
Would you like to get a first hand account of the conflict from grassroots Palestinian and Israeli peace activists?
We are inviting you to become a part of Windows- Channels for Communication, a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization struggling for peace and justice by educating both sides about the conflict.
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At Windows we believe that stereotypes and misinformation are largely to blame for the lack of a unified struggle against discrimination and violence in the region. We have taken it upon ourselves, a joint team of Israeli Jews, Palestinian citizens of Israel, and Palestinians from the West Bank to go out into our communities and educate about ‘the other’ and the need to preserve each other’s rights in the face of a violent conflict. We listen to each other’s narratives, we debate, and we grow together, accepting that we will one day share this land and it is up to us to decide how to do it.
As you prepare for your trip to Israel, we want to invite you to be a part of the Windows Experience this winter. At Windows we believe in challenging your sources of information and making an effort to hear the ‘other side.’ Most tourists in Israel never get to meet and talk with Palestinians about living under occupation, or see the separation wall, the checkpoints, and the settlements. These issues are at the heart of the conflict and we want to give you the opportunity to experience them for yourself.
In an effort to reach out to the Jewish community, Windows is conducting an alternative Israel experience to give American Jews the chance to hear both sides of the conflict and to meet with Palestinians and Israelis who are working together for a just and peaceful solution. You will hear from some of the leading human rights organizations in the country, visit the most contentious political spots, and hear from courageous Israeli and Palestinians activists who are struggling daily for justice and peace.
If you are a person who takes a stand against oppression, someone who is repulsed by inequality and violence, and an individual with a thirst for truth, then this tour is for you. Regardless of your opinions, and especially if you are interested in hearing both sides of the story before forming a stance, consider participating in the Windows Experience.
If you would like to sign up or find out more information, please send an email to Emily@win-peace.org by December 15th.
We hope to see you in Israel and Palestine!