continued from page 21

22 | FEBRUARY 3 • 2022 

also underscored how fragile 
these relationships are. Peace 
requires time, care, endless nur-
turing and commitment. I fully 
intend to continue cultivating 
an environment at home that 
allows our connectedness to 
grow.”
Illustrating this need for 
time and care was made most 
apparent in a visit to American 
Jewish Committee’s new office 
in Abu Dhabi, which was estab-
lished after decades of quiet, 
people-to-people work in the 
UAE leading to the signing of 
the Abraham Accords in 2020. 
Reflecting back, said Cooper, 
“On Jan.3, I left for Dubai as an 
American Jew and on Jan. 9, I 
returned home as a global cit-
izen. We are now ambassadors 
who will continue this work for 
peace.”
Added Ridaa Khan, “Once 
again, I am so thankful to the 
Ravitz Foundation for this 
incredible opportunity … Not 
only have we built our own 
bonds, but we will spread the 
mission of Muslim-Jewish 
collaboration, community and 
conversation for the rest of our 
lives!” 

For students interested in learning more 

about the upcoming interfaith fellow-

ships, contact Michael Kuper at kuper@

jfmd.org. Lauren Herrin is associate 

director of the JCRC/AJC.

OUR COMMUNITY

TOP: Yael Grafy, the Israeli COO of the Museum, with Ahmed Almansoori at the new Holocaust exhibit 
at the museum. Crossroads of Civilization Museum promoting Israeli/Jewish and Muslim/Arab relations.
MIDDLE: Eating a kosher lunch at the Crossroads Museum, after the Muslims prayed the Salat al-Ju-
mu’ah. The Palestine Pavilion, with smells and pictures of Jaffa Oranges (also the pride of Israel…)
BOTTOM: In front of the desert-like area, a tribute to friendship with the UAE, at the Israel Pavilion with 
the words in the back in Hebrew-Arabic: El Hamachar – To Tomorrow.

