Middle East Peace Civic Forum
Creating Communication
Inspiring Vision
Empowering Action
Welcome
Welcome to the official website of the Middle East Peace Civic Forum. We’re glad you’re here!
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has inflicted an extremely high price over many decades. The peoples of the Land continue to trade indignities, locked in a cycle of violence.
We assert that it is possible for Palestinians and Israelis to reconcile their differences and find a way to coexist peacefully. To be sure, there are critical issues of unworkability that must be effectively addressed.
We invite you to learn about our theory of change and join us in this vital initiative.
We depend on the support of people who share our vision of peaceful coexistence and reconciliation, with rights and responsibilities for all. If you are moved to support our work financially, please give what you can to this important initiative. We thank you wholeheartedly for your contribution.
Happening Soon! MEPCF Critical Conversation Series: Join Us Live or watch the recording
To address the need for thoughtful discussion and mutual understanding, MEPCF has launched the Critical Conversation Series.
This monthly online event provides a forum for thoughtful conversation and deep listening on the most critical issues relating to the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
Join our next Critical Conversation:
Thursday, December 5th, 2024, at 12:00 EST, 7:00 pm Jerusalem Time
Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84102220965 PW: 11111
Watch the first Critical Conversation from March 28th, or the three-minute highlight video on the MEPCF YouTube channel.
Our Vision
We envision a reality of reconciliation, dignity and peace within the Abrahamic Family.
In this vision, Israelis and Palestinians work together as allies and partners, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea.
In our vision, the people of the land live in mutual respect, with a shared commitment to the rights, and responsibilities, of all.
Middle East Peace Civic Forum Mission:
We create communication, inspire vision, and empower action that brings about real peace and lasting transformation to all impacted by the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
MEPCF Approach
Conflict Analysis.
Our approach to transforming the conflict begins with an evaluation of the sources of unworkability in the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
Theory of Change.
From the Conflict Analysis flows our Theory of Change. Effective conflict transformation requires addressing the sources of unworkability.
Mission Statement.
Our Theory of Change informs Our Mission Statement.
MEPCF Programs.
Our programs are designed around our Mission, consistent with our Vision and Theory of Change. In effect, the programs are the bridge between the present reality and Our Vision. In this way, we intend to help move the needle in the quest for comprehensive Israeli-Palestinian reconciliation and peace. The extreme violence and entrenched attitudes prevalent today only reinforce the need for a comprehensive and fresh approach.
MEPCF Approach:
Conflict Analysis > Theory of Change > MEPCF Mission > Our Programs
Conflict Analysis
What key factors have contributed to the unworkability in the Israeli-Palestinian relationship and failure to resolve the conflict?
No Compelling Vision of Coexistence and Peace
The lack of an engaging vision has led to distrust and fear while reinforcing unworkable systems and grievances. Entrenched and oppositional narratives have festered and expanded unchecked. The result has been ongoing suffering, loss of hope, and predictable cycles of violence.
The absence of a clear and compelling vision for peaceful coexistence and universal human rights for all Israelis and Palestinians has had increasingly toxic consequences, This includes the recent escalation of violence.
Without a “north star,” a compelling destination to work toward, the situation has drifted without any apparent viable pathway to a reality of coexistence and peace.
Widely Divergent Narratives and Lack of Genuine Communication
A central element of the breakdown within the Israeli-Palestinian relationship has been a lack of thoughtful, honest communication. Prevailing conversations have tended to advocate for one side only, denigrate “the other,” and score points in the court of public opinion.
Clearly, a range of critical issues need to be discussed and addressed. These include (to name just a few): efforts to delegitimize the historical ties of “the other” to the land, religious and ideological fundamentalism, use of violence and terrorism, lack of human rights, etc.
We assert that there has been a pervasive lack of space for thoughtful conversation. This has resulted in a deficit in understanding, empathy, and commitment to finding a solution. To be sure, it can be challenging to discuss sensitive issues in the face of widely divergent opinions and even disputed facts. However, not discussing these issues will virtually guarantee continued conflict.
Recent outbreaks of violence can be seen as a predictable result when the grievances and aspirations of a population are not dealt with satisfactorily through nonviolent means, whatever that may look like.
Lack of Engagement and Partnership Across the Full Range of Israeli and Palestinian Societies
In 1993, Israeli and Palestinian representatives signed the Oslo peace accords, initiating a time of substantial but incomplete progress towards a final status peace agreement. During this process, government-level negotiators worked together to establish trust and negotiate key issues. While imperfect, optimism rose and public support for peace initially increased.
Sadly, an escalating cycle of violence torpedoed this opportunity for peace. This violence was fueled by elements of each society that refused to give up part of the land to each other, and was driven by a range of factors including fear and religious conviction.
Unfortunately, during this time, negotiators wrote off those who didn’t support the particular vision for compromise that was being discussed. Rather than working diligently to encourage those with differing views to participate in the conversation they were sidelined and labeled as extremists. This limited any chance that these parties might ultimately come around to play a constructive role in creating coexistence.
Insufficient engagement of large swaths of society, including civil society actors and religious parties, contributed to those parties not having their voices heard or their interests respected. In this context, the opposition, fear, and skepticism about peace that many people felt were predictable.
Without a sufficiently broad cross-section of support, negotiators were unable to bridge the divide and overcome resistance from large portions of society. Eventually, the peace process collaps.
Conflict Analysis > Theory of Change > Our Mission > MEPCF Programs
Theory of Change
Through effective efforts to address the sources of the breakdown identified above, it is possible to move the needle toward reconciliation and peace.
Breakdown: No Compelling Vision of Coexistence and Peace
Theory of Change: An Intentional Effort to Create and Share Visions of Workable Peace Can Have an Impact
Israelis and Palestinians are not destined to be at war forever. An intentional effort to generate and share a comprehensive and feasible vision of peaceful coexistence, including human rights, security for all, and opportunity, can provide an attractive destination for Palestinians and Israelis to shift their focus. All of us have the ability to create and express a vision of a workable reality. By organizing and inspiring a movement of people to consciously and deliberately share visions of cooperation and mutual opportunity, we assert that we can meaningfully move the needle on improved Palestinian-Israeli relations.
This entails encouraging the creation of positive visions of coexistence in the artistic and creative realm, as well as a granular approach to envision transformation of a range of societal elements. These may inlcude initiatives to create partnership and mutual workability in the areas of education, environmental protection, energy, natural resources, entrepreneurship, healthcare, etc.
Furthermore, without a collective vision, the implementation of practical measures for peace becomes increasingly challenging, as there is no common framework to guide negotiations and compromise. As a result, opportunities for meaningful dialogue and progress towards a lasting resolution are frequently derailed. In order to break this cycle and pave the way for successful peace and reconciliation, it is imperative for Israelis, Palestinians, and their supporters to cultivate a vision, or a series of visions, that prioritize mutual understanding, universal dignity and respect, and universal well-being.
Breakdown: Widely Divergent Narratives and Lack of Genuine Communication
Theory of Change: Create an Effective Forum for Honest, Thoughtful Communication to Bridge the Divide
We assert that it is of vital importance for all parties to listen deeply to one another, and to express what needs to be said. The current level of violence is unacceptable, and communication to foster improved relationshipos and cooperation is essential. All sides need opportunities to say what they need to say.
This point of this dialogue is not to whitewash or overstep the real disagreements and grievances the parties hold. Rather, the opportunity is for the parties to say what there is to say and begin the process of finding some way forward.
The lack of safe spaces for these conversations has been a major hindrance to the quest for reconciliation and peace. We assert that providing a forum for thoughtful and serious communication, including through expert facilitated dialogue, will encourage the parties to better understand each other and begin to recognize one another’s common humanity. Israelis and Palestinians have a common future, so building relationships, engaging thoughtfully, and working through the issues is required.
Breakdown: Lack of Engagement and Partnership Across the Full Range of Israeli and Palestinian Societies
Theory of Change: An Organized and Diverse Movement of Voices Speaking out for Comprehensive Reconciliation will Increase Support for Resolution of the Conflict.
As noted in the Conflict Analysis above, during the Oslo years those who called for peace were isolated. What was missing was a sufficiently broad effort to engage and bring into the conversation a wide range of influential actors from all facets of Palestinian and Israeli society.
A broad and concerted campaign of coordination and thoughtful discussion, led by civil society and community actors, is necessary to compliment and bolster the official diplomatic track.
It may not be possible to win over everyone to the peace camp in the beginning. But with enough thoughtful people standing together and building sustainable relationships, we move closer to a tipping point when peace can become reality.
We assert that it is time for a movement to provide space for those who believe in peace to unite together and move beyond the current climate of hostility.
Our Theory of Change informs our Mission.
Conflict Analysis > Theory of Change > Our Mission > MEPCF Programs
Middle East Peace Civic Forum Mission:
We create communication, inspire vision, and empower action that brings about real peace and lasting transformation to all impacted by the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
Our Programs are Designed to Fulfill our Mission
Conflict Analysis > Theory of Change > Our Mission > MEPCF Programs
MEPCF Programs
“Critical Conversations” Series
Peace Tribe Rising Podcast and Movement of Artists, Influencers and Thought Leaders
Monthly Newsletter with Commentary and Updates
Additional Programs to Advance our Mission
The Peace Tribe Rising podcast and community is all about unfolding a new identity as peacemakers and people who are committed to living together in peace.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be viewed as a battle between two tribes with competing religious, national, and historical stories and identities. Peace Tribe Rising is empowering a new, shared identity: the Peace Tribe.
Together, we are unfolding a future of reconciliation, peace and human rights for all the people of the holy land. We come from a wide range of backgrounds: Israelis and Palestinians, Jews, Muslims and Christians, and supporters of all stripes, colors and creeds, in the Middle East, the United States, and around the world.
Episode 1 introduces the podcast hosts. Episodes two and beyond feature guests who are making a difference in bringing peace and reconciliation to the Holy Land and beyond.
Peace Tribe Rising Podcast
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Sweet Peace Concert Series
Thank you to Sweet Spot Studios, our audience members and contributors, and our musical partners for making the first Peace Tribe Rising concert for Middle East Peace a success!
Performers:
Rafael Javadov, Violinist and Producer
Born I Music, Hip-Hop Artist
Ezra Helios, Indian classical guitarist
Special thank you to Jan DuPlain for your partnership.
Meet the Team
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Matt Lakenbach
Founder and Executive Director,
Member of the BoardMatt is passionate about peace and reconciliation in the Abrahamic family. Matt’s experience includes half a decade as a Senior Program Officer for Legacy International, where he managed international exchange programs through the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Matt also worked at the University of Connecticut’s Office of Global Affairs, assisting in the management of international exchange programs. Matt also did a sabbatical as a writer and editor while living with Elias Jabbour, founder of the House of Hope International Peace center in Shefar’Am/Shef Amer, in the Galilee region of Northern Israel.
Matt earned a master’s degree in International Peace and Conflict Resolution from the School of International Service at American University in Washington, DC, and a BA in Economics and Political Science from Washington University in St. Louis.
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Jess Bryan
Member of the Board
Jess brings a decade and a half of global educator experience. She is dedicated to creating fulfillment and success in relationships, learning, and communication. She is committed to fostering peace, understanding, and effective communication in the Middle East.Working with diverse populations of students, schools, educators, and parents, has allowed her to leverage her experiences, partnerships, and networks to guide, train, and empower her students to achieve their goals.
As the founder and CEO of Future Empowered Virtual School, Jess leads dynamic personal finance and communication seminars that cater specifically to millennial women and teenagers aged 14 and older. Jess strongly believes that effective communication plays a vital role in building trust, resolving conflicts, and establishing sustainable peace. Transformation happens inside effective communication, and Jess is excited to contribute to positive change in the region.
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Peter van Geldern
Founder and Member of the Board
Peter van Geldern is an experienced professional with a diverse skill set that proves invaluable to successful program implementation. His expertise lies in peacebuilding, organizational leadership, program design, storytelling, and project management, ensuring the efficient execution of peacebuilding projects. With two decades of experience with nonprofits focused on peacemaking, he excels in facilitating custom governance models, including within MEPCF.Peter is also the founder of UnFOLD Creative, a Design Leadership Agency that produces impactful projects across North America, Europe and beyond. UnFOLD is known for its pioneering work in sustainable micro-dwellings and attainable and sustainable housing solutions, purchasing and developing land, master planning, visioneering, inspirational and unique dwellings, experience design, creative placemaking, profitable hospitality, and professional community building.
Peter is currently engaged in innovative leadership in lifting the industrial hemp industry and Hempcrete bio based, healthy attainable housing solutions. He is also collaborating with indigenous tribes throughout North America to create healthy, bio-based culturally sensitive housing options. His passion lies in exploring new realms of transformation and impact for individuals, communities, companies, and the world.
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Larry Imberman
Founder and Member of the Board
Larry was born and raised in Southern California in a home that was proudly defined by his parents as wholly American and wholly Jewish. Larry graduated from the California State University system with a BA in Religious Studies.
Larry, with his wife Helene, at 24 years old, made the choice to raise their family and live in Israel. Larry saw, as part of his responsibility, to continue writing the history of the Jewish people. Rather than choosing black ink on white paper, Larry chose to write in green plants on the brown soil of Israel.
The next 25 years were spent as a farmer, both as a founder of a moshav in the Negev and as a kibbutz member on the Lebanese border. When Larry, Helene, and their 5 children left the kibbutz, Larry learned technical communication and operated a business servicing Israeli Hi-Tech.
Larry is a member of the Middle East Peace Symposium Steering Committee. He is passionate about leaving the world just a bit better for his four (and counting) grandchildren, and all the kids who deserve better.
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Dr. Rev. Artie C. Bethea
Team Member
Rev. Artie Bethea is an ambassador for the kingdom of God and Jesus Christ, an author, and expert teacher in biblical studies. He also serves as a personal and professional coach. He resides in Richmond, Virginia.
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Walid Seyam
Member of the Board
Walid is a Palestinian activist and academic professional who believes wholeheartedly in the possibility of peace and reconciliation within the human family.
Walid has family in both Gaza and the West Bank, and has lived in both areas as well.
Your generous contribution empowers us to fulfill our mission and bring reconciliation and peace to the region.
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Majid Alsayegh
Chair Emeritus, Middle East Peace Civic Forum
Advisory Board Member
Born and raised in Mosul, Iraq, Majid is the founder of Alta Management, LLC, which oversees design and construction of major capital projects in the public and private sectors. Majid chairs the Board of both Delaware Valley University and the Dialogue Institute, a non-profit that teaches the skills of dialogue and critical thinking, empowering leaders from around the world to sustain transformative relationships across lines of religion and culture. Majid also serves on the national Muslim Jewish Advisory Council, a bi-partisan group of business, political and religious leaders who are working to address hate crimes and protect religious freedom. He is a co-founder, and chairman emeritus of Intercultural Journeys. Majid lives on a farm outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he raises Arabian horses.
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Sheikh Ghassan Manasra
Intl. Chair Emeritus, Middle East Peace Civic Forum
Advisory Board Member
Ghassan is the International Director of The Abrahamic Reunion, a team of spiritual peacemakers dedicated to uplifting human consciousness and building peace in the Holy Land and around the world by opening hearts to the love and wisdom of all spiritual traditions.
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Daniel Weiner
Advisory Board Member
Dan is the Vice President for Global Affairs at the University of Connecticut. He has led initiatives in the areas of human rights, international education, and Middle East affairs. He led the development of the UConn Abrahamic Initiative to promote scholarship relating to interfaith understanding in the Abrahamic family.
Our Values
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We value a deep state of peace, which entails an embrace of integrity, brotherhood and sisterhood within the Abrahamic family and beyond. Not to be confused with acquiescence to structural violence, unfair policies, or oppression, real peace includes both the inner and outer dimensions: an inner state of presence, calm, and balance in harmony with an outer state of workability, fairness, and human rights for all people.
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We are grounded in the value of reconciliation within the Abrahamic family including Israelis and Palestinians; Muslims, Jews, Christians, and Druze. Let us embrace our family ties and find a way to reconcile with one another. Let us honor the ones we have lost, and the pain endured in the past. Let us join hands to honor our struggles to get to this point, while at the same time standing for a new reality of forgiveness, healing, and coexistence.
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We value the fundamental, natural, inalienable human rights of all people as deserving equitable treatment under the law. The land of Israel-Palestine is home to two peoples, and we value the rights of all people who call this home. With these rights come responsibilities: to treat others as we wish to be treated, with dignity and honor.
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Trust is earned, and it is necessary for the realization of authentic and lasting peace. To have a partner, we must be a partner. We value trust as an essential ingredient for the realization of peace. We are building trust within the Peace Tribe, and working to develop trust broadly within the Abrahamic Family and among all those who labor for peace. We trust that our steadfast work for healing and repair makes a difference.
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Many of us are exposed to widely differing conversations and understandings of historical and current events. We value empathy and sensitivity to the experiences and emotions of others, not just those who share our same views and beliefs. We aspire to suspend judgment as we open our ears and our hearts to the lived experiences and perceptions of one another. While we do not have to agree with everything that is said, we recognize each other’s humanity and aspirations.
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We value integrity, which encompasses honoring our word and honoring each other. At the societal level, integrity exists when people respect one another and the system of governance works for all people. As we honor our word, we also honor and develop trust for each other. Part of our work includes calling out what doesn’t work and creating in its place systems and structures that do. Where we observe that integrity is out, we address it with love and work to restore a state of integrity.
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We stand for a reality in which all people of the Holy Land have an opportunity to spend time together, and allow the bonds of humanity to develop. When people get to know one another in peace, affinity and love to develop naturally. We value love for ourselves, our families, our communities, our tribes, and for the earth that sustains us. Love enables us to listen to each other with kindness and respect, and a space to be patient with each other.
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We are warriors for peace. We do not give up. We know that peace is a done deal. Peace is becoming a reality that we stand in. We are unfolding the conversations, the relationships, the partnerships, and the initiatives, that are the living expressions of Partnership, Possibility, and Peace. We assert that our leadership is wanted and needed, and we are lighting a torch that inspires the world.
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The conflict dynamic is strongly rooted in conflicting narratives along historical, religious, national, and geographic lines. These narratives keep us separate and in pain. The past is complicated, and the way forward is to step into a new narrative of partnership and peace. Creative and innovative solutions are possible and can be found in conversation.
Being in conversation with love and understanding is a living manifestation of peace. Kind and thoughtful communication is peace actualized. Peace becomes real when it is experienced first-hand, within the Abrahamic family and beyond.
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We all deserve a place to call home, and everyone deserves a homeland. In that beautiful, tiny, crazy land that some call Israel, others call Palestine, and some simply the Holy Land, we unite to declare that the time has come to coexist in peace—in our home and in our hearts.
