Franciscan Action Network hosted a virtual event featuring two speakers from the Holy Land, one Israeli and one Palestinian, who are members of the Parents Circle – Families Forum. They shared their personal stories of loss and discussed how they continue to work together for peace and reconciliation even under current challenging circumstances. The 35-minute presentation was followed by another 30 minutes of Q&A. This dialogue offered participants a more nuanced context for understanding the personal dimension of the current violence in Gaza. If you missed any of the event, click the image below to watch the recording on YouTube.
Our Speakers:
Robi Damelin
Robi Damelin is a spokesperson and director of International Relations for the Parents Circle – Families Forum. She joined the organization after her son was killed by a Palestinian sniper. All her work, whether in Palestine and Israel or internationally, is geared towards non-violence and reconciliation as a means to end the occupation. Robi was named as a 2015 Woman of Impact by Women in the World. She regularly contributes to media outlets in Israel and abroad. Robi was invited to brief the Security Council at the United Nations in May 2022.
Arab Aramin
Arab Aramin is Palestinian. In 2007, his sister Abir was shot and killed in front of her school by an Israeli border police officer. Arab is a member and activist in the Parents Circle – Families Forum. His father, Bassam Aramin, has served as the Palestinian Co-Director of the organization.
Many thanks to our cosponsors of this event:
Laudato Si’ Center for Integral Ecology at Siena College
