MSU to host a panel discussion on peace

Next Thursday, Oct. 15, The MSU Leadership Institute will host “Enemies to Allies: A Rabbi and Palestinian Activist.” The virtual panel discussion by Roots, a Palestinian and Israeli activism group, will be on building a grassroots model for coexistence between Palestinian and Israeli communities.

The event will be live-streamed from West Bank, an area of Palestinian and Israeli contention, at 11 a.m. M.D.T and moderated by Franke Wilmer, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Political Science. ​“I am thrilled to share this opportunity to learn how we have difficult but meaningful conversations that can replace stereotypes and separation by understanding the other’s humanity, suffering, needs and roots,” Wilmer said.

The webinar will feature a panel discussion with Roots’ activists Noor A’wad, who is Palestinian, and Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger, who is Israeli. Throughout the event, the presenters will discuss their beliefs. Ultimately, the presenters believe that understanding and trust are the prerequisites for lasting justice, freedom and peace in the West Bank.

“I’m encouraged by the discourse happening in a time of such great conflict. I look forward to seeing this translate into the lives of students and the community alike,” said Cole Hough, a Student Associate at the MSU Leadership Institute, and an organizer of this event.

The event is free and open to the public and you can register at tinyurl.com/EnemiestoAlliesatMSU.