Don't Mourn, Organize

Several messages have arrived in the Dove's inbox urging: don't mourn, organize!

Here are some things you can do and organizations to join, in no particular order:

The Rebuilding Alliance (formerly Rebuilding Homes) will host a benefit to rebuild in Gaza on June 10, 2004, in Oakland, California. "An evening of magical storytelling, inspired improv performances and visionary poetry celebrating the possibility and beauty of home." The goal is to raise $10,000 for The Rachel Corrie Rebuilding Project in Gaza.

Jewish Voice for Peace posts petitions and one-click e-mail letters for you to sign or revise and send. The site also contains news stories about Palestine, interviews with activists and other information not found in the mainstream press.

The Tikkun Community sponsors teach-ins to Congress, letter-writing and phone call campaigns to politicians and the media, and other educational and organizational activities. Check their site for updates and how you can join.

The Middle East Children's Alliance (MECA) has been fighting for food and justice for Arab children for years. I just received an e-mail from them asking for donations for Gaza relief. 100% of the funds you donate will go to Gaza for food and medical assistance.

MECA accepts "snail mail" donations here: MECA, 901 Parker Street, Berkeley, CA 94710.

Brit Tzedek V'Shalom (Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace) is based in Chicago but was founded by the Bay Area's own Marcia Freedman. They describe themselves as "a national organization of American Jews deeply committed to Israel's well-being through the achievement of a negotiated settlement to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict." Go to their site to learn more about what to do.

The American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee home page includes action alerts - who to call about what issues.

Visit the Gush Shalom site. This Israeli group is in the forefront of protest against Sharon's policies. They need financial support! You will also find reports from Palestine and Israel that you won't see elsewhere.

Call your congressional representatives whenever you think of it. Hard-liners call and write every day, reminding our leaders that they don't want any compromise or negotiation, even if it means endless bloodshed. Those of us who know there is a better way don't have the same fanatical desire to badger our representatives, it seems. Congresspersons have told peace activists that they understand the issues in Israel/Palestine but they don't see the constituency for change. Yet. Your voice matters!