Two members of Parents Circle – Family Forum will share their personal stories and answer your questions. Parents Circle is a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization of over 600 families. In 2013 Mount Zion had a presentation by members of Parents Circle in partnership with the Islamic Center of Minnesota and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. On Jan 16, our presentation will include Robi Damelin and Laila Alsheikh. Robi Damelin’s son, David, was killed by a Palestinian sniper in 2002 while guarding a checkpoint near a settlement during his army reserve service. She speaks to Israelis, Palestinians, and audiences all over the world to demand that reconciliation be a part of any peace agreement. Robi was named a 2015 Woman of Impact by Women in the World. Laila Alsheikh lives in Bethlehem in the West Bank. In 2002, her 6 months old son, Qussay, became ill and Israeli soldiers prevented Laila from taking him to the hospital for more than five hours. Qussay soon died from the lack of timely treatment. Laila joined the Parents Circle in 2016. Following her son’s death, she never thought of revenge, but rather has devoted her time and energy to ensuring a better, more peaceful future for her children.
