This project brings Israeli and international volunteers together in solidarity with Palestinian farmers through shared agricultural work against extremism. Through harvesting olives and planting trees with Palestinian farmers whose lands are vulnerable to attacks by extremist Jewish settlers, this projects protects the basic right of Palestinian farmers to earn a living in dignity and safety.
For Palestinians with land near Israeli settlements, the agricultural seasons bring great anxiety. These farmers face regular violence & interference by settlers & the Israeli Army during their work, causing financial loss & trauma. The 2019 olive harvest had a 50% increase of incidents compared to 2018 including damage to nearly 500 trees, 27 theft incidents & 9 violent incidents. Despite Israel's responsibility as sovereign power, the army refuses to adequately protect Palestinian rights.
This project is a chance to restore justice on the ground! Our staff & volunteers help ensure the harvest goes as smoothly & peacefully as possible for Palestinians while replacing damaged trees. Our presence in the field is a powerful deterrent to aggression & interference. In a time when tensions are high, this project demonstrates there is another way - one based in justice & fellowship, where Palestinians and Israelis come together in the spirit of solidarity and fellowship.
Volunteers & work days vary according to the cyclical nature of the seasons, ranging from 50 volunteers to over 300 for more than 20 days of harvest. We will assist between 20-50 farmers to complete their agricultural work with less chance of incident or harassment. Through this practical work, Palestinians & Israelis are empowered to view one another as a force of partnership & solidarity. This gradual attitude shift is a critical one in the effort to paving a road towards peace and justice.
