Moderator, A'ida Shibli, began the conversation by inviting us to think of our time together as a "ceremony." Through deep listening, silence, and searching, we found comfort, connection, and direction. Moderator, Stephen Apkon, discussed how each time Palestinians and Israelis choose to stand together, especially in times of intense trauma, it is a heroic and sacred act. He reflected, "[Through CfP] I've learned the importance of nonviolence in the work to end the occupation, and I've learned the importance of not dehumanizing anyone because when we do, we dehumanize ourselves."
It was humbling and powerful to hear from CfP's Palestinian and Israeli activists about their commitment to interdependence.
CfP Israeli Co-Founder, Avner, shared, "We must be open to all of this suffering, to the pain of all people, and be able to hold it...This very sensitivity to human life is our engine and our generator. This very sensitivity has extended our sense of self...To bomb 'them' is to bomb Souli and Rana, and it is to bomb myself..."
CfP Palestinian Co-Founder, Souli, encouraged us to hold fast to our values, not simply during times of comfort, but in the face of immense challenges and great suffering. When reflecting on "another way", Souli shared, "I feel this voice is really loud now and I feel this can offer an alternative to other people - rather than the voice of darkness or the voice of us vs. them."
Many of you have asked for CfP's recent statement and the poems read during the meeting. Please find links below:
CfP's recent call to actionMahmoud Darwish PoemLeah Goldberg PoemAs a bonus, Stephen Apkon, Director and Producer of "Disturbing the Peace" has generously offered free access to the film.
Combatants for Peace invites us to reject dualistic thinking and choose a third way - a path of safety, dignity, and liberty for all who live on the land. Thank you for your incredible solidarity and support during this time. We will move forward together - holding fast to our values and shared humanity.