Date: February 11, 2011
To: English 1311 Students
From: Monica Ferguson
RE: Neve Shalom/ Wahat al-Salam
Many of us are unaware of the constant political and humanitarian battles currently existing in Israel and Palestine. Due to the region's cultural intolerance, security barriers and road blocks have sealed off many Palestinian villages, consequently preventing these villagers from receiving any medical care or even schooling for their children. In some remote locations, unemployment is a common problem because the villagers are unable to cross the barriers to get to work or find jobs. The result of such obstacles is extreme need and poverty.
Although realistically aware of the existing conflicts in Israel and Palestine, the organization Neve Shalom/ Wahat al-Salam aims to make a difference in as many lives as possible. The name Neve Shalom/ Wahat al- Salam means Oasis of Peace in Arab and Hebrew and the title itself describes the objective of this organization; to provide an efficient, though small, peaceful retreat in an area plagued with turmoil and despair. Located right in between Jerusalem and Tel-Aviv, NSWAS is a village that houses over 50 Jewish and Palestinian families. The primary focus of NSWAS is to educate its residents and promote tolerance between the Palestinian and Jewish cultures. By having these two nationalities living among one another, the residents are able to get an understanding of people they had been raised to believed were their enemies. NSWAS provides different programs, such as The School for Peace, Children's Educational System, The Pluralistic Spiritual Center and a Youth Club as a means to assemble and educate Palestinians and Jews. In addition to their educational work in the community, NSWAS recognizes the importance of medical relief. The organization has raised funds to provide medicine and food to those in need, particularly to Palestinian villagers affected by the conflict. Many of the organization's residents, along with doctors and medical staff, volunteer to provide medical assistance by distributing medication and holding medical treatment days in local towns and villages.
Neve Shalom/ Wahat al-Salam depends on help from volunteers as well as material and monetary donations. Their website provides information on how to become a donor or visitor, and an application to become a volunteer; as NSWAS would not be able to continue its endeavors without the support of others. In addition to details on how to help, the website gives a full description of each of the programs and schools, background on the community, and information on humanitarian aid. There are also numerous articles, photo albums and videos showing the progress of the organization's work, a link to "friend" them on Facebook, and even a Twitter feed with recent news updates. Additionally, the page includes contact and booking information for perspective guests of the Neve Shalom/ Wahat al-Salam along with the ameninities provided. Visitors are invited to stay at the NSWAS Hotel and enjoy the facility's pool, restaurant, and cafe, and are encouraged to participate in any activities that the village has to offer. The Visitor's Center has a variety of workshops, lectures, discussions, and activities available to any guests interested in learning more about NSWAS.
I think that it's pretty cool that this organization does everything that you had mentioned. Also, that this organization brings the Palentinians and Jewish together in order for them to realize that being enemies is not what these two nationalities should be. Also, it's cool that the NSWAS is eduacting and providing medical care to these peopl. I think that people should donate to this organization in order to help them out so that they can continue doing what they'are doing.
ReplyDeleteThis is a weird but interesting concept. The organization is trying to promote tolerant relationships between Palestinians and Jews but they are living in their own little town. I believe that if they want to promote change they have to step out into those cities that are going through conflict. Perhaps promote the clubs they currently have in Tel-Aviv or Jerusalem. Your post is really good, it is informative and it gives insight to the organization.
ReplyDeleteI guess you first have to start somewhere neutral, this place is excellent for doing a change in the judgement of the youngest generations or the generations to come. I think by doing this, those who will go on to live somewhere else will have a different social construct that will determine the way they interact with others which will be with tolerance and respect. This might lead to a better understanding and acceptance oon differences based in religion, race and conduct. Great!
ReplyDelete