The Jerusalem Open House blog was extremely interesting. Even though the blog didn't provide us with dense information and facts, it was great to hear experiences from individuals our age. For example, one of the posts was written by a Junior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst majoring in Judaic Studies. Hearing from the perspective of someone who is in the same shoes as us allows me/us to relate to them. The Jerusalem Open House seems to offer something for just about everyone. As one intern put it, "The Jerusalem Open House truly does offer something from every person, regardless of age, religion, or language spoken."
When I visited the Jerusalem Open House website, I was intrigued and drawn to the LGBTQ Bill of Rights. I think it's great that they have taken the initiative to really stand up for what they believe in. Within the Bill, they provide some great points in regards to lesbians, gays, gender, sex, and orientation. For those who are not informed on the topic of LGBTQ, the Bill provides wonderful insight about how "these types of people" are being discriminated against. Even in areas regards to healthcare and identity, these individuals are being treated as "aliens."
The first thing I saw when I visited www.alqaws.org was, "Palestinian Queer Party." I think what alQaws is doing is spectacular. I am a strong proponent of breaking down the barriers that exist in regards to gays, lesbians, bisexuals, trans-genders, and queers. Seeing that the "LQBTQ Palestinian community is still in its early stages," it is warming to see that they are already taking action. They are engaging in initiatives that make them feel welcome and included. I look forward to hearing from our guest speaker, Elinor Sidi (and/or Haneen Maikey) to learn more about these types of organizations in the Middle East.
Questions:
1.) How long have these types of organizations been in existence?
2.) What measurable progress has been made over the last 20 years? 10 years?
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