Thoughts on COVID-19 and peacebuilding

by Robi Damelin Bereaved Israeli mother Parents Circle – Families Forum  Dear friends, Sitting here after three weeks of lockdown,  I have had a chance to ruminate and feel so grateful for your support and friendship.  Without you, the struggle we have at the Parents Circle – Families Forum towards reconciliation and non-violence would not have been possible. … Continue reading Thoughts on COVID-19 and peacebuilding

Steven Spielberg and Oprah are talking about us…

We knew the upcoming novel, Apeirogon, based on the stories of bereaved members, Rami Elhanan and Bassam Aramin, would be a big moment for the Parents Circle, but we didn’t realize it would be THIS big. Just this week, Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Partners acquired the rights to Apeirogon, written by National Book Award winner Colum McCann. Oprah Magazine called Apeirogon, a “profound prayer for … Continue reading Steven Spielberg and Oprah are talking about us…

My 2020 Resolutions

by Robi Damelin Bereaved Israeli mother Parents Circle – Families Forum It’s simple to make a personal New Year’s resolution, which you inevitably break by January 2nd. But it’s another matter entirely to make resolutions on behalf of an organization, especially an organization made up of Palestinian and Israeli bereaved families. Imagine the trust involved and the goodwill from both sides when … Continue reading My 2020 Resolutions

I am so proud of my grandchildren

by Robi Damelin Bereaved Israeli mother Parents Circle – Families Forum This year, the Parents Circle’s Youth Summer Camp had a very special flavor for me. My two grandchildren took part. They left with so much new knowledge. They also left with an understanding of the humanity of the Palestinians who were their roommates and … Continue reading I am so proud of my grandchildren

Changes in Palestinian Leadership

The Parents Circle – Families Forum bids a warm farewell to Mazen Faraj. Mazen was the Palestinian Co-Director for 7 years, and a staff member for 13 years. Mazen’s greatest accomplishments include helping to create a joint Israeli and Palestinian board. As well, he helped grow the organization’s scope of reconciliation activities. Mazen was crucial … Continue reading Changes in Palestinian Leadership