Solidarity Presence: A Talk with Experienced Activists
Every day, we see news reports of attacks by Jewish settlers on Palestinian villages in the West Bank. According to the human rights organization B’Tselem, since October 7, 2023, military operations and violence by settlers in the West Bank have led to population displacement on a scale not seen since the 1967 occupation. As of July 8, 2024, settlers with the support of the army and Israeli authorities had forced residents of 65 Palestinian communities and individual families (a total of 4,349 people) to leave their homes.
These events can evoke despair, a sense of helplessness, a desire to help, fear for one’s own life and health, and confusion. We share all these feelings. That is why we decided to organize a meeting with activists who travel frequently to the West Bank and are ready to share their thoughts and experiences.
The presence of Israeli and international activists no longer provides the real protection it once did. That is precisely why we included the word “solidarity” in the title. We can still stand together in difficult times, voice our dissent, and use the tools at our disposal: documenting human rights violations, filing lawsuits, and supporting Palestinian families financially by buying the food and goods they produce.
What can we do right now? What does solidarity presence look like in different regions of the West Bank? What are the real threats, and what can be done to stay safe? There are no silly questions. Come with your doubts and concerns—to listen to the speakers, buy goods and products made by Palestinian residents, and offer real, tangible support.
Meeting moderators:
Tamara Alon, involved in solidarity presence in the northern Jordan Valley, a mathematics and philosophy student at Tel Aviv University
Eliana Padwa, involved in solidarity work in Masafer Yatta; a teacher at a bilingual school and a member of several activist groups
Sarit Michaeli, involved in solidarity work in northern Jericho and the Ramallah district; a coordinator at the New Israel Fund
The talk will take place in English, with no translation.