Just Vision was born out of a desire to show Palestinians, Israelis and the international community that it ain't all about violence and aggression. Their goal is to inform people about joint Israeli and Palestinian efforts to resolve the conflict in a non-violent way. To allow the voices of peace to grow louder.
In 2006, they produced a film called Encounter Point. It tells the story of Israelis and Palestinians--most of whom either lost a loved one in the conflict, spent years in prison, or were driven from their homes--coming together to work towards understanding and a resolution to the conflict. This is the kind of work I like because it builds hope. Nothing is more urgent for this region.
Just Vision is about to release a new film, Budrus, which tells the story of a group of Palestinians and Israelis who come together to create a non-violent movement to save the village of Budrus from the route of the separation barrier.
The story has its limitations. One of the characters is a local Hamas leader, which seems misplaced, given that Hamas openly advocates violent resistance against Israel, including deliberately targeting civilians. But, what I find interesting is the realisation in some leaders that violence has not served the Palestinians interests. That it is time for a different approach.
A non-violent movement is starting to take form. It might be small but it is growing. And it is strongly supported by the Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas. This is not the first time on my journey that I have heard stories and seen examples of non-violent resistance. I think these initiatives deserve to be treated seriously. If they become stronger, it might shift people's mindsets and open the way for a different future.
12 days to go...
Very interesting. It is to be hoped that a non-violent movement will become mainstream within Palestinian society. The Palestinians would have a state so quickly if they took this approach. Sadly there has been a longstanding culture of death worship and violent indoctrination of children that will not easily be reversed. I agree that it's nice to see the women step forwards.
ReplyDeleteML's remark really hits the spot! So well espressed. When one side regards violence as the approach and the other wants a peaceful stance, you cannot form any kind of alliance. There are so many small groups who all seem to be doing the same thing. Maybe if they amalgamated they would create a force strong enough to defy those are trying to destroy any peaceful initiative. Liora
ReplyDelete