Despite what you may have heard, there is a great deal being done on the ground to find creative solutions and resolving Jerusalem’s “endless” conflict. There are active organizations rooted in the neighborhoods and surrounding areas of both West and East Jerusalem where both Israelis and Palestinians work hard for human rights, justice, and eventually, Peace.

We are now looking for communities committed to realistic Peace, partners interested in supporting and empowering the Grassroots social network in Jerusalem.

Contrary to what we hear from the media, the truth is that, while we hold our breath between acts of terrible violence between extremist Palestinians and Israelis, there are grassroots workers addressing people’s immediate needs. These activists transcend issues of race, religion and gender in addressing vital concerns. They organize projects addressing numerous challenges, including water catchment systems due to water deprivation, nonviolent communication education, summer camps, womens circles, theater groups, ex-combatant Palestinian-Israeli meetings, and many more.

They find creative solutions for daily problems deemed unsolvable or ignored by policy makers. Although each organization works on a different issue, the common ground is a shared sense of urgency felt when a neighbor’s basic human rights are denied, no matter the religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. To the activists’ credit, they are practicing the basic teachings of all major religions and are at the forefront of creating an inclusive, social active network that will ultimately define the outcome of today’s hardships. They deserve our help.

It is imperative to join and empower those who are finding creative solutions on the ground. Where they succeed,  governments  follow. At this point in time these grassroots organizations are our safest investment. This network offers the opportunity to become part of an international grassroots movement that provides support for ground projects, and hope for all those who call Jerusalem home.

A grassroots Market/Shuk/Kasba website is being formed with two major groups in mind:

1. ON THE GROUND: Grassroots organizations and activists in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas working for justice, equal rights, and eventually Peace. The website will provide a current picture of what is happening on the ground. The information from the site will be a basis for long term planning and efficient resource sharing.

2. AROUND THE WORLD: Diaspora communities taking responsibility and an active role by supporting “on the ground” activities and grassroots organizations. The website will demonstrate an encouraging portrayal of the active Diaspora communities and their support for groups involved.

We are looking for partners in this exciting venture- Diaspora communities committed to Peace, willing to step-up and share the responsibility for Jerusalem. Community leaders have been joining this network including, Rabbi’s Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and Tirzah Firestone from the Boulder community have endorsed this networking effort, and are playing an active role in it.

We request that your organization and the greater community take the opportunity to play an active role however they see fit.

Suggestions:

1. A venue where I could offer a presentation to the community followed with a discussion that would engage people and hopefully inspire participation.

2. An endorsement from your organization, supporting the grassroots network to create an example for other communities and spark inspiration for interested individuals.

3. Funding or other creative solutions to assist with organization, lodging, travel, and other expenses.

4. A local committee to help brainstorm, support and build relationships with their counterparts in Jerusalem would ultimately be of great value.

5. A community representative to be in touch with us, and report back to the community, creating and sustaining a link between the Jerusalem grassroots community and its Diaspora.

Any involvement is greatly appreciated and needed.

It is amazing to realize how many people besides us, consider Jerusalem home. There are so many of us who could have a say in Jerusalem’s future, let’s speak up.

With Sincere THANKS!!