The Youth Programs Committee of Baltimore Yearly Meeting is offering a powerful two-week service opportunity for young people from the United States who are interested in exploring the world through service. From July 10-24, 2006, five BYM Young Friends and five Palestinian youth from the Friends School in Ramallah will meet, visit, listen, work, travel, eat, and explore Palestinian, American, and other international perspectives. Workshops and trips are integrated into the experience, carefully designed to allow participants time to listen, and reflect, providing each individual with an opportunity to discover him or herself more fully. Both youth groups will be mutually enriched as they educate each other about their respective cultures, share their perspectives, and provide windows into each others’ societies beyond media images. This trip will broaden our awareness of what it means to be global citizens

Is it safe? Palestinians are incredibly hospitable people, highly educated (especially in cities like Ramallah), and appreciate internationals who come to show their solidarity and concern for the situation facing Palestinians. In general, Palestinians do an excellent job separating the actions and policies of the U.S. government from U.S. citizens. As the de facto capital of the West Bank, Ramallah is one of the most open and stable areas.

How can I help? Your tax-deductible contribution will help to defray the costs of trans-Atlantic flights, local transportation and excursion expenses, and meals for the young people who have stepped into this important experience in awareness, faith, and service. We appreciate your support, as it teaches young people that this is indeed a valuable and worthwhile endeavor. Please make checks payable to Baltimore Yearly Meeting, with Young Friends in Ramallah on the memo line.

Submitted by Hope Braveheart & Lamar Matthew, Trip Coordinators and participants.