As we light candles at this time of year to increase the light around us, we look back at the challenging year that is coming to an end and hope that the coming year will lead us to more understanding between Palestinians and Israelis and closer to peace. The Bereaved Families Forum has committed to continue its tireless work for reconciliation, bringing the message to many more locations and diverse communities in Palestine and Israel. Please read below about some of the activity highlights of 2014.
Help us to strengthen ourselves and each other as we continue to participate and initiate new programmes, and to increase the circle of supporters for our work. Every donation, large or small, is most appreciated. We wish you a good holiday season, warmth and blessings in all that you do and a Happy New Year for 2015.
Viewed by over one million people around the world over the summer, We Don't Want You Here was the BFF video response to the war and rising hatred. Campaign designers Saatchi and Saatchi won the Bronze Eurobest award.
For 70 days, circles of dialogue took place between Israelis and Palestinians, and among Israelis on their own at the Peace Square in Tel Aviv. The Peace Square was covered by the media in more than seven languages.
During the war, bereaved Israeli and Palestinians paint a message of peace together through the creation of the Peace Square Mural. The Mural will be displayed at the United Nations in 2015.
4. Peace Day
On the heels of the war, 800 Israelis and Palestinians gathered at the Peace Square in Tel Aviv to mark the International Day of Peace to support open dialogue to promote reconciliation and an alternative to violence.
5. Women’s Group creates Jam Session
Much more than a cookbook, this collection of jam and pickle recipes emerged from the work of the women's group with the culinary advice of Gil Hovav and Hussam Abbas.
PCFF spokesperson, Robi Damelin is interviewed by journalist Tina Brown, Founder and CEO, Women in the World, and tells of how she transformed her personal tragedy into reconciliation and forgiveness.
Twenty years after the forum was founded, 620 Israeli and Palestinian families are now active members in what Ha'aretz refers to as ‘the saddest – and most optimistic – peace organisation’ in the region.
Peace will only come when Israelis and Palestinians have the chance to reconcile and truly support a peace agreement with the ‘other side’. The Peace Square serves as a haven for voices of dissent and for the Bereaved Families Forum’s ultimate message – stopping further bereavement.
Help the Bereaved Families Forum raise £14,000 to bring the Peace Square to three Israeli cities and three Palestinian cities in 2015.
