Join Parents Circle Families Forum’s bereaved members, Robi Damelin and Najwa Saadeh as they share their stories of loss and their unique choice of reconciliation.  Participate in a discussion on the human side of the conflict and why relationship building, mutual understanding of the “other side” and a reconciliation framework is necessary for any sustainable peace agreement.  This is a free community event.  As we expect this event to fill quickly, registration is highly recommended.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  Dessert Reception with coffee, tea and beverages begins at 6:45 p.m. Presentation begins at 7:30 p.m.

Robi Damelin is the Israeli spokesperson of the Parents Circle.  Her son, David, was killed by a Palestinian sniper in 2002 while guarding a checkpoint near a settlement during his army reserve service.  Robi speaks to Israeli, Palestinian and international audiences all over the world to demand that reconciliation be a part of any peace agreement.  Robi was named a 2015 Woman of Impact by Women in the World.  In 2014, Robi was selected by the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice as one of four Women Peace Makers.  She is the protagonist featured in the documentary, One Day after Peace.

Najwa Saadeh was born in Bethlehem, Palestine.  She became a member of the Parents Circle when she lost her daughter, Christine.  In March, 2003, the Israeli army opened fire at their car and her 12-year-old daughter, Christine, was killed. Since then, Najwa has devoted her life to seeking peace in Palestine and Israel by finding ways to stop the bloodshed and to achieve justice for all.  To overcome her sadness, she has decided to work for hope and peace in order to build a better future for everyone, especially children.  “Forgiveness is something great.”

The Parents Circle Families Forum is a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization made up of more than 600 bereaved families.  Their common bond is that they have lost a close family member to the conflict.  But instead of choosing revenge, they have chosen a path of reconciliation.

The PCFF hopes for the day that political leaders reach agreement for peace. But they strongly believe that reconciliation between the Israeli and Palestinian people is essential to ensuring that peace is sustainable.