Clinical Depression, Clinical Oppression

After the talk at the clinic in Barta'a, we went to the local high school with the group of Rabbis. The buildings and surroundings were run down, dirty and the lack of facilities and resources evident. The Head Teacher spoke of chronic underfunding from the Palestinian ministry of education and the possible need for external funds. The group's Israeli guide, Ya'akov, came up to me and very passionately insisted that the local teachers and students could and should keep the place clean and maintained. He argued that the kids could paint the walls and have a cleaning rota ('it wouldn't cost much'). He couldn't understand why they don't take action to improve their lives and why they are so dependent on external sources and resources. I was taken aback by his argument and the way he delivered it. I told him that he has a point but I don't have an answer.
After thinking about it for a while I saw a parallel between clinical depression and clinical oppression. Someone who is chronically depressed cannot summon up the energy for basic daily activities such as keeping themselves and their environment clean and tidy. Maybe the impact of prolonged oppression has similar consequences? I am aware that this is just one way of looking into a complex issue and that there are cultural and other factors but I believe this is a central and dominant aspect.

Rabbis for Human Rights

A group of Rabbis from the UK came to Barta'a today. They are touring Israel and the West Bank looking into human rights and coexistence issues. Whilst Abu Rami was giving an introductory talk at the clinic and I was translating, I had a thought. How can we introduce interfaith work into the mainstream in this part of the world? Whereas in the UK, interfaith activities are well attended, here it is still very much on the 'fringe'. My friends at Jerusalem Peace Makers http://jerusalempeacemakers2008.jerusalempeacemakers.org/ are doing a great job but their meetings are attended by few people.

So, over to you religious leaders. Teach about our shared destiny and common humanity, highlight the common denominator in the religions, focus on the unique spiritual path your religion offers and what in means. Encourage both intellectual learning and activities of the heart. The people have given up on the politicians, I hear it over and over from Israelis and Palestinians. But they go to Churches, Synagogues and Mosques. So, get together religious leaders, show a commitment to your path and your people, continue to grow and develop and sow peace in the hearts of your congregants. The politicians job is to work out a deal and sign a contract. They will eventually do it. But what next?