Established over 20 years ago, Hands of Peace was created with a mission to empower Israeli, Palestinian, and American youth to become agents of change. As highschool students from across the US, Israel, and Palestine come to share their stories with each other in a 3-week immersive summer program, Hands of Peace has successfully connected hundreds of passionate individuals who are ready to change the world for the better.
Dating back to 1948, the state of Israel was created, leading to the Arab-Israeli War. Roughly 750,000 Palestinians were displaced and the land was left in 3 parts: Israel, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Fast forward to the Oslo Accords of 1993 and 1995, Palestine was given the structure to govern themselves and establish a mutual recognition between Israel’s government and the Palestinian Authority. While attempts were made to create peace, tensions are still high between the two nations as violence runs throughout the area.
Debby Fosdick, executive director of Hands of Peace, oversees both the San Diego and Chicago site each year. With nearly 100 participants per summer, Debby enjoys her work, knowing she is actively helping foster change within our global community.
Sitting with trained facilitators, participants sit through an intense dialogue hearing numerous stories and finding ways for peace.
As tensions rise between the two nations, it is imperative to educate those around us on the situation and create ways to provide a sense of security to Israeli and Palestinian youth.
Watch the full interview down below!