Discussions of Israel/Palestine in the West all too often neglect to include Palestinian voices, particularly those from Gaza. As such, inaccurate depictions of Gaza and its citizens abound. The story of Gaza is one of powerful tradition and deep resilience, and that is the Gaza we are sharing during our upcoming program: Gaza 101, a virtual, four-part educational series. We will openly and honestly present the reality of the siege, the occupation, political leadership, and include ways participants can advocate with their elected officials to encourage U.S. policies that will help end the siege of Gaza and advance human rights for all. In so doing, we will hear directly from Gazans who will present a broader picture of Gaza’s humanity and reveal real solutions by digging into the topics of culture, history, politics, and the economics of Gaza.

In partnership with Churches for Middle East Peace and the American Friends of Combatants for Peace, the Gaza 101 series will begin on Thursday, February 10th and continue weekly through Thursday, March 3rd.

We hope you will register for this free educational program and consider making a donation to support our organizations, if you are able! Please find the event details below.

PART 1: CULTURE OF GAZA

February 10 at 12:30pm EST
Moderator: Maya Berry, Executive Director, Arab American Institute
Speakers: Omar Ghraieb, Policy and Campaigns Officer at Oxfam International and Alaa Hammouda, Rotary Peace Fellow

PART 2: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF GAZA

February 17 at 12:30pm EST
Moderator: Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon, Executive Director, Churches for Middle East Peace
Speakers: Dr. Ramzy Baroud, Author

PART 3: POLITICS OF GAZA

February 24 at 12:30pm EST
Speakers: Jehad Abusalim, Education and Policy Associate at American Friends Service Committee and Majed Abusalama, Independent Journalist & Scholar

PART 4: ECONOMICS OF GAZA

March 3 at 12:30pm EST
Moderator: Dr. Jim Zogby, Founder and President, The Arab American Institute
Speakers: Asmaa Abu Messed, Economic Development Specialist with Oxfam International and Omar Shaban, Founder/Director of Pal Think