Monday, June 14, 2010

Wi'am Center

It is hard to believe that I have been here for less than 4 days!! I already feel very at home here at the Wi'am Center. If you are interested in more information than I can give here, check out their website at www.alaslah.org. This is a center devoted to conflict resolution. They work to resolve conflicts within the Palestinian society as well as educate citizens about nonviolent resolution skills and provide opportunities for children,youth and women to come together to learn and socialize. The Center just moved to its present location early this year. It has be given a ten year rent-free lease. They want to develop the land to include a playground for children as well as add a building that can accomodate large meetings. The picture I posted earlier is of the courtyard, which is right next to the seperation wall. The beauty of the trees and flowers stands in stark contrast to the symbol of oppression that surrounds the area. The pictures attached to this blog entry show the work that has been done as well as the space that is waiting to be transformed. Zoughbi, the director of the center, is also pictured here.





2 comments:

Elizabeth Grantham said...

Laura, don't know how I missed that you were going back to Bethlehem this summer. Your pictures bring back so many memories. I am sure that you will be an asset to the Center. I'll keep you in my prayers and keep up with you in your blog. e

Susan Mellichamp said...

Laura, I am delighted to see your pictures and read your blog. So proud of you giving your time in Bethlehem. Prayers are with you. Susan