We have work to do
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- Published on Wednesday, 18 March 2015 16:15
- Written by editor
NMM 2015
Israeli elections underscore the importance of JVP's historic growth and strategy.
Angela Davis at JVP National Member Meeting.
Photo credit: Michelle Nelson
See what you missed at the JVP National Member Meeting
Yesterday’s election reaffirmed what Jewish Voice for Peace has been saying for quite some time:
The only way to end Israel's endless settlement expansion and separate and deeply unequal apartheid system is through external pressure.
Because the United States has only enabled Israel’s illegal actions, we have always believed that only a strong grassroots movement could pressure the Israeli government to do what it would not do on its own—reach a fair and just agreement with the Palestinians.
And after just finishing up our own historic, sold-out National Member Meeting, I have to say I have never felt so confident that this movement is well on its way to being strong enough to tip the scales of justice.
In fact, I have never felt so hopeful that justice will prevail.
From hearing from a recent #BlackLivesMatter delegation to Palestine, to celebrating a spirited Havdalah, to panels on anti-Semitism and Zionism, and a deeply moving memorial service for those who died this summer, the NMM offered deep analysis, and even deeper spiritual sustenance and new friendships. By the end, when the great scholar and activist Angela Davis said that JVP had "emerged as one of the most important progressive organizations in the country,” it was clear why. I know for many of you— especially after yesterday, you may be confused by my optimism and sense of hope. But this weekend I saw firsthand what a rising and powerful grassroots movement looks like.
For a taste, you can check out this short video of some reflections of members who were there, and a Storify collection of attendee tweets and photos from the weekend.
With profound insights from speakers including Amer Shurrab, Rabbi Brant Rosen, Andrea Smith, Eran Efrati and Rev. Heber Brown III, and dozens of member-led workshops, for this weekend, we jointly embodied a vision of a new and better world. In the words of speaker Sa'ed Adel Atshan, "I wish this could be our world, everywhere, all the time." These elections mean it is time to redouble our efforts.
There are no more excuses for pretending that Israel will take the right path to a just peace on its own.
For those of us who believe in our hearts in a peaceful and flourishing future for Jewish Israelis and Palestinians, now is the time to get off the sidelines and redouble our commitment. We've got work to do. See you at the next NMM in 2017!
Rebecca Vilkomerson
Executive Director
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Jewish Voice for Peace
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