“In the sea of hopelessness, there exists a small island of sanity; a tiny glimmer of hope.”
— The Jerusalem Post
Our Mission
The American Friends of Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam (“Oasis of Peace” in Hebrew and Arabic) supports the operations, programs, and initiatives of Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam, a unique and inspiring cooperative village jointly founded by Israeli Jews and Arabs in 1972 to explore lived solutions to peace in the region. Our membership represents diverse backgrounds and faiths, united by a passion for championing real-world, achievable approaches to a more just, equitable, and peaceful world for all.
Through our fundraising and volunteering, we provide resources for the over 300-member Village as well as support peace-seekers from around the world who travel there to participate in trainings and programs. Through our publication and events, we raise awareness across the U.S. about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and the Village’s ground-breaking peace-building work.
At this polarized moment in our own history, it is more important than ever to stand behind initiatives that disarm conflict, bridge differences, and build empathy and understanding. The American Friends of Oasis of Peace upholds the village as a model for this work not just in the Middle East, but in our own communities.
Empower a new generation of peacemakers.
We believe, in the words of Nelson Mandela, that “No one is born hating another person,” and that education is crucial to peace efforts. Our work supports the Village’s Primary School, where students receive their lessons in both Arabic and Hebrew, bridging the language divide while learning about each other’s cultures and traditions.
Create authentic dialogue.
We believe that the ability to communicate honestly, effectively, and in good faith is critical to any peace process. Our work supports the Village’s School for Peace, which provides training in dialogue building and conflict resolution to peace-seekers from around the globe.
Inspire understanding through art.
We believe that art is a powerful tool for cultivating empathy. Our efforts fund the Village’s thought-provoking art exhibitions and cultural programs, which welcome visitors from different beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives to connect through the act of looking together.
Connect hearts and minds in common cause.
We believe that sharing spirituality across traditions helps transcend differences, deepens compassion, and finds common ground. Our work supports the Village’s Spiritual Center, a space for interfaith study and shared religious traditions as well as programs that integrate art and dialogue.
Champion healthcare as a human right.
We believe that healthcare is a human right. Our member donations support free medical aid to hospitals, aid organizations, and communities on both sides of the conflict. We also fund trainings for Palestinian and Jewish mental heath professionals who counsel those affected by the violence.
Keep hope alive.
We believe that peace is achievable in our lifetime, and that the Village gives us a roadmap. Together, we can spread the word about this inspiring community, learn from their work, and ensure that their legacy is secure for future generations.
