This event was a series of presentations and facilitated dialogues that took place in January and February of 2024 in partnership with the Parents Circle – Families Forum (PCFF), a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization formed in 1995 of over 600 families, all of whom have lost an immediate family member to the ongoing conflict. The group advocates for a process of reconciliation between nations as a prerequisite to achieving a sustainable peace.
Speakers (Updated)
Laila AlSheikh lives in Bethlehem in the West Bank. She studied Accounting and Business Administration. In 2002, her 6 months old son, Qussay, became ill and Israeli soldiers prevented Layla from taking him to the hospital for more than five hours. Qussay soon died from the lack of timely treatment. Layla joined the Parents Circle in 2016. Following her son’s death, she never thought of revenge, but rather has devoted her time and energy to ensuring a better, more peaceful future for her children.
Bassam Ararmin is not able to participate; therefore, Laila AlSheikh will present instead.
Robi Damelin, spokesperson and director of international relations for the PCFF, joined the organization after her son was killed by a Palestinian sniper. All her work on the ground, both in Palestine and Israel and internationally, is geared toward non-violence and reconciliation as a means to end the occupation. Robi was named 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 United Nations Security Council in May 2022.
Opening Presentation
During the opening presentation, the speakers shared why they joined the PCFF and its impact on their lives, and will engage in a Q&A with attendees to share and listen to multiple perspectives on the Israel-Palestine conflict. This event was held in person, with the speakers joining via Zoom.
When: Sunday, January 14 at 11 AM
Where: Kracum Performance Hall
Did you miss the Opening Presentation? You can watch the recording below.
Student Dialogue Sessions
These small-group sessions were intended for students only, and offered the opportunity to discuss and process these events and their impact on our campus community. They were moderated by trained staff facilitators from the Center for Community and Civic Engagement and the Office of the Chaplain. Both sessions were offered the same opportunity; therefore, students could attend either session.
Session #1
When: Wednesday, January 17 at 7 PM
Where: AGH Meeting Room
Session #2
When: Monday, January 22 at 7 PM
Where: Leighton 236
Registration coming soon.
Closing Presentation
Following the campus opening presentation and the students dialogue sessions, this event provided an opportunity for extended Q&A with the same speakers of the PCFF. The event was held in person, with the speakers again joining via Zoom.
When: Sunday, February 11 at 11 AM
Where: Weitz 236