Justice and Human Rights United States Project #12995

Movement to Safeguard Palestinian Communities

by Rebuilding Alliance

Summary

Tide is turning: 200 Congressional offices attended briefings to hear how to keep Palestinian communities standing. Help us reach more constituents and follow up case by case with Senators, Reps, & the US Embassy to request intervention. Your support enables us to provide the inside story to Congress because no matter the party, offices listen and act when constituents ask. Now we're organizing constituents to host Congressional calls to hear Palestinian children present their visions of peace.

$175,000
total goal

$783
remaining

1,228
donors

20
monthly donors

7
fundraisers

8
years

Challenge

Over 3000 Palestinians who live in East Jerusalem are at imminent risk of losing their homes (including 4 whole neighborhoods). In the West Bank, over 16,000 Palestinian families have demolition orders, with new military orders giving only 96 hrs before demolition and no notice for confiscations. Meanwhile, Israel continues to expand settlements, including agricultural settlements which are especially violent. Press Israel to recognize Palestinian master plans to save Palestinian communities.

Solution

Palestinian homes, schools, jobs, healthcare can't wait for peace agreements. Start with small, tangible asks so Congress takes action that makes a difference. All Senators & Reps promise to help constituents resolve urgent issues- this isn't lobbying since it isn't legislation. Our ask: call the State Dept and the Israeli Embassy to push them to intervene case by case and recognize Palestinian planning rights. When constituents call, officials listen. When they intervene, villages stay standing

Long-Term Impact

Rebuilding Alliance began Contact Congress requests in 2008 when we brought Al Aqaba Village's Mayor Haj Sami to Congress. Everyone emailed their Senators & Reps, who called the State Dept. & the Israeli Embassy to keep his village standing. It worked. This West Bank village is thriving- they even issue their own building permits, the first in Area C! Extending this approach to Jerusalem and other Palestinian communities assures equal rights for Palestinians, security for everyone, and peace.