26 May 2011, Rabbis for Human Rights http://rhr.org.il/eng (Israel)
Rabbi Gideon D Sylvester
Our Beit Midrash for Human Rights spends many hours in the classroom studying sources and meeting rabbis and activists to learn about Judaism’s understanding of Human Rights and how it can be out into practice.
This week, it was time to get out into the field and witness some of the issues first hand. The morning began with a presentation by Rabbi Shlomo Fuchs looking at the symbolism of barriers in Jewish thought, then after snatching a quick cup of coffee and some borekas, students boarded the buses and set off for their first stop with a panoramic view over the old city of Jerusalem.
Rabbi Arik Ascherman used this magnificent visual aid to explain the work of Rabbis for Human Rights and to examine the tensions that the unification of East and West Jerusalem has created. He also introduced a local resident who spoke about life in East Jerusalem and the associated difficulties of obtaining building permits and sitting in checkpoints.
The next stop was Gilo, where Rabbi Ascherman and tour guide Royee Amir explained the construction of the separation barrier and the problems created by its route through the Arab villages, swallowing land belonging to Arab farmers who live there and preventing them form reaching their orchards. Students had an opportunity to ask questions and discuss their perspectives on the wall.
From there, the group travelled past the new settlement of Har Homa and into the winding roads of the Palestinian neighborhood of Tabo. Here they witnessed the contrast between the beautiful, modern Jewish settlements and the severe poverty and lack of investment in the Arab neighborhoods.
The final stop was Sheich Jarrach where students met Muhamed Sabah who related his family history and their sense of injustice at how they had lost their home.
By mid afternoon, it was time to get ready for Shabbat and students rushed home to prepare for Shabbat.
Commenting on the trip Beit Midrash director Rabbi Gideon Sylvester said, “It was an important trip, and our students were moved by seeing the issues first hand. They particularly appreciated the clear explanations which provided the historical background and contemporary significance of the issues. This week, they returned to the Beit Midrash talking about the issues with even greater passion and commitment”.
Rabbis for Human Rights
Rehov HaRekhavim 9
Jerusalem, Israel 93462
Tel: +972.2.648.2757 | Fax: +972.2.678.3611
e-mail: info@rhr.israel.net
Nenhum comentário:
Postar um comentário