Gershon Baskin at Netivot Shalom
Gershon spoke at two events at Congregation Netivot Shalom in Berkeley, California USA on September 17 and 18 2016. At the events Gershon described how crucial it was to facilitate a trustworthy and ‘human’ channel of communication between Hamas and Israel that took years of relentless efforts to foster and achieve its final goals.
The event was facilitated by the Jacob’s Ladder association who invites to the Berkeley community passionate leaders who represent hope and possibility for Israel and Palestine, for Jews and Muslims, for Israelis and Arabs, for a world where peace feels less far away.
After the event, Didacus Ramos commented
“Today my friend, Gershon Baskin spoke with us at Congregation Netivot Shalom about hope for the future in Israel and Palestine. I always enjoy hearing Gershon make his presentation. He has the ability to give us hope despite some very dark days. Is peace possible? Yes. What can we do to bring it about? Meet some one on the other side–and listen to what they have to say. Hearing is the first step to peace.”
Deborah Blank added
“I am so happy I was able to attend Gershon’s talks both days. He is such a gifted speaker and I left with more hope than I have felt in a long time about “the situation.” I also greatly appreciated his analysis of what we can learn from the mistakes in past “peace talks” and what needs to happen now. His encouraging us to connect with others on the so-called “other side” was so important.”
Serena Heaslip shared
“I left his talk on Shabbat full of tears. I am so grateful for the work that Gershon Baskin is doing and for the message he is sharing! Humans CAN treat each other with respect and humans CAN figure out how to share space and live in diversity. I know that this is possible but often feel that this view is perceived as naive. Gershon Baskin believes it and he is far from naive. Bless the peacemakers!”
