The Hamas-Israel Conflict
- Tyneeta Canonge
- Oct 15, 2023
- 2 min read
It's been a week since the violence between Israel and Hamas has escalated out of control. While we are watching and grieving together, some people in our community have innocent family members and friends who are in imminent danger or worse. The most important thing to do is to center the humanity of not only the innocent people who are suffering through violence and destruction, but those who are in our neighborhoods, work communities and schools who may be suffering also. Whether the suffering is because of concern for the safety of loved ones, or because of grief for the broken hearts, minds, and souls of fellow human beings, our suffering is worthy of care.
People process suffering - anger, fear and trauma differently. Some desire to take up space while others need to be quietly reflective. Honoring the needs of others is essential during this time.
I also recommend active listening. In times of crisis, we often want to be reactive. For those of us who can afford to listen to understand more than to be understood, this is a good time to do so, if for no other reason than to comprehend why we experience things differently. Hold space for each other. Don't operate as if nothing is happening. We must pay attention to our sources of information and examine them critically. Seek sources that center humanity and offer a complete, (as) unbiased (of a) story (as possible).
If you are not familiar with the Hamas-Isreal humanitarian crisis or any of the others that are taking place across the globe, this is a great time to become educated and determine how you are called to act in response. I’ve shared several resources below. Feel free to add ones you know about in the comments.
Our goal is to center humanity and show up for one another during this difficult time. We always need each other, but especially during times like these.
Other ongoing crisis to know about:
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