As a positive alternative to the normalization of segregation, violence, and racism, Heartbeat creates spaces and opportunities for Palestinian and Israeli youth musicians to build critical awareness, respect, and trust while harnessing creative nonviolent tools for self-expression and social change. Engaging in a sustained music, dialogue, and empowerment process, Heartbeat youth musicians become
agents of change; harnessing the tools of creativity to imagine possibilities, ask questions, and publicly address systemic problems such as violence, oppression, and inequality — partnering to create a safe, equitable future for all. Modern, popular music has long been the voice of change all around the world and a powerful means for youth expression and nonviolent action. By bringing together young Jewish and Arab musicians and strengthening their voices, we are working to build a global culture of trust, compassion, and respect. Why Heartbeat? Heartbeat breaks through entrenched physical and psychological barriers as a constructive alternative to the status quo of segregation, violence, racism, and the power differentials brought on by years of conflict, occupation, and war. Years of traumatic violence, increasing segregation, antagonistic educational and media policies, and occupation have dramatically polarized the Israeli and Palestinian populations. Tensions between Israeli Jews and Palestinians are on the rise as continued fear, distrust, and increased separation further distance these communities from each other, thereby prolonging the status quo. While the few who use violence and racism dominate headlines and dictate how our communities interact, the vast, silent majority of Israelis and Palestinians yearns for a secure, equitable future but is largely unheard and so remains unaware of its power to influence others and transform the status quo. In the past 20 years, less than 1% of the Israeli and Palestinian population has come together for a meaningful, sustained respect and trust building experience. Even within Israel, most Arabs and Jews live in separate neighborhoods and attend separate schools. To transform this protracted struggle for land and recognition, we urgently need to provide safe, engaging spaces for youth from both sides to build critical awareness of their reality, to come to trust and respect each other as equals and to imagine and proactively co-create locations of possibility. Donate Today
Heartbeat programs are over 95% scholarship based, ensuring equal access for all. Whether covering transportation, food, recording equipment, rehearsal spaces, retreat accommodations, or very basic staff salaries, Heartbeat relies on small donations to keep its programs going. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today to help us sustain and strengthen the sounds of a better future. http://heartbeat.fm/donate/
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