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YesMEP supports US Congressional efforts to improve conditions in Gaza
YesMEP sent a letter to President Obama in support of a Congressional letter, signed by 54 members of the U.S. House of Representatives, that called on President Obama to work for improved conditions for the residents of Gaza. YesMEP decided to send this letter because of the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its negative impact on the prospects for a two-state solution that will be accepted by a large majority of Palestinians. Click here to see a copy of the Congressional letter. Click here to see a copy of the supporting letter sent by YesMEP. Take a look at videos and articles about our unique performing arts event !!On December 6 th, YesMEP held its first major event - a unique performing arts event featuring interfaith prayers, music, theatre, and pleas for peace - at the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue in Washington, DC. Nearly 250 people turned out to hear opening prayers from a prominent rabbi, imam and Episcopal priest, performances by renowned actors, and entertainment by Jewish-American and Palestinian-American musicians and by White Flag, a Palestinian-Israeli rock band. The highlights of the evening were the personal stories given by members of the Parents Circle-Families Forum, a group of Israelis and Palestinians whose close relatives have been killed by the other side. Robi Damelin’s son was killed by a Palestinian sniper while guarding a checkpoint in the West Bank; Mazen Faraj’s father was shot by an Israeli soldier carrying a bag of groceries. Paul Monteiro, associate director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, represented the Obama administration at the event. He stated that the Israeli-Palestinian peace process is a “critical” issue for President Obama, who is “serious about making real progress” on this difficult issue. Become a member of YesMEPIf you are interested in joining YesMEP or learning more about our organization, please contact us at bethechange@yesmep.org. Next YesMEP Meeting on Sunday, February 28th at 2 pmAn important planning meeting will be held at the National Cathedral Library (on South Road behind the Cathedral) on February 28th. (This meeting was originally scheduled for February 7th , but was rescheduled because of the snow.) If you are interested in attending, please rsvp to us at yesmep@hotmail.com. There will be two major agenda items: (1) YesMEP organizational issues and (2) planning for future YesMEP events. |
Take a look at videos and articles about our unique performing arts event ! !
For details about the individual performers, click the December 6th Program tab in the upper left corner. We will also be soon posting several longer YouTube clips featuring each of the performers and speakers. Donate to YesMEPDonations are tax-deductible through our fiscal agent, Am-Kolel. Make checks payable to Am Kolel YesMEP Fund and send checks to:
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YesMEP is a Washington, DC-based interfaith and secular coalition formed to support President Obama's initiatives for peace in the Middle-East.
MISSION STATEMENT
Yes We Can: Middle East Peace (YesMEP) is a partnership of diverse religious and secular Americans in the Washington, DC metropolitan area who have come together to support President Obama’s initiative for a just and secure peace between Israelis and Palestinians based on a two-state solution. We believe that the establishment of a Palestinian state next to Israel, and a mutually satisfactory agreement regarding Jerusalem, a cornerstone of any peace agreement, will not only advance the interests of the United States, but will also provide security for Israelis, dignity and prosperity for Palestinians and a lasting peace for both nations.
Answering President Obama’s call, we strive to inspire mutual understanding and respect for both Israelis and Palestinians by fostering inclusiveness and inviting collaboration with other community organizations, as well as tapping the creative talents of young adults. We are working to create a safe space for honest dialogue, personal narratives, cultural and artistic expression, collaborative education, and celebrating our common roots and values. In keeping with our shared principles of justice and preserving the dignity of all human beings, we are dedicated to working for a world where all can live with the assurance of mutual security, freedom and respect.