COLLEGE PARK, MD (March, 2013) How can we enhance the roles of young Jewish and Muslim women in the peace-building process in the Middle East? What leadership skills do they need to acquire to play effective roles in this process? How can we employ social media effectively and creatively to bring about this positive change? A workshop, co-organized and moderated by Dr. Jing Lin, Professor of International Education Policy, Dr. Sahar Khamis, Professor of Communication and Womens Studies, and Graduate Assistant Sachi Edwards, attempted to explore these issues and answer these questions.
Supported by a grant from the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and a matching amount from the Dean of the College of Education, the workshop engaged 11 Jewish and Muslim female students from the University of Maryland in constructive dialogue.
In preparation for this workshop, the students read articles related to the Middle East conflict and womens leadership roles in peace-building. They shared their views and debated on various issues, through an online discussion board.
During the workshop, the students explored the commonalities and differences between the Jewish and Islamic faiths and cultures, in an attempt to better understand the different identities, views, and perspectives of both sides.
The workshops guest speaker, Ms. Barbara Wien, a dynamic peace activist, provided a comprehensive overview of womens leadership in peace efforts, historically and currently, with a focus on the Middle East region. She was a great inspiration for the students, due to her rich experience in peace-building and many courageous activities in this area.
The participating students watched a video called Promises before attending the workshop, and a movie called Arranged during the workshop. Both movies illustrate that there could be genuine friendship and mutual understanding between Jews and Muslims.
At the end of the workshop, the students engaged in envisioning and designing concrete projects to promote peace-building. They pledged to continue their efforts by implementing these projects. One of the participating students made a video which can be watched here.
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