With government in shutdown, jobs scarce, investment values dropping, poor and elderly citizens destitute, and concerns rising about government violation of our privacy rights, why should we focus on oppression in places some of us can barely locate on a map? Because by maintaining our involvement in struggles for justice worldwide, we strengthen and legitimize our own claim to basic human rights here at home.

I have recently learned that on Wednesday, Oct. 23, Israeli-born author Miko Peled, son of one of Israel’s most decorated generals, will be speaking here in Portland about his book, “The General’s Son: Journey of an Israeli in Palestine.” Those who have read this book know how movingly it tells of the author’s journey from total Zionism to Palestinian rights advocacy, a change that began, strangely enough, after his family’s grief over the death of a beloved 12-year-old niece killed by suicide bombers. Writer Alice Walker has called this the “most hopeful” book she’s read on this conflict. I agree. The book reveals how forgiveness and hope can replace hate and revenge. I was very excited when I heard he is coming to Portland.

My own hope is that a lot of my fellow citizens will come to hear this man speak (along with a Palestinian woman and three Palestinian musicians.)

Susan K. Christian
Portland


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