24 | DECEMBER 21 • 2023 J N OUR COMMUNITY I t’s no secret that war can breed divisiveness and anger, but several Israel-based organizations continue to promote peace and understanding amidst a crisis. While these organizations have long strived to build relationships between Israeli and Palestinian communities, the effort has now become more important than ever during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war that has devastated families in both communities. At a time of rising antisemitism and Islamophobia, Jewish Metro Detroiters like Brenda Rosenberg, who is actively involved in promoting peace amongst various religions, choose to support international efforts that foster connections between nations. “There’s positive ways of looking at what people think is negative tension,” the Bloomfield Hills resident explains. “It’s really what can connect us as people.” After all, Rosenberg continues, “You can’t build a bridge without points of tension.” Still, Rosenberg says that Metro Detroiters often aren’t aware of Israel- based or international organizations that support Israelis and Palestinians working together. Here are a few she’s involved with that she recommends the local community learn about. PARENTS CIRCLE - FAMILIES FORUM The Parents Circle-Families Forum (PCFF) is a joint Israeli- Palestinian organization that consists of more than 600 families, all of whom have lost an immediate family member to the ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. The goal is to create sustained peace between the two nations by promoting reconciliation and nonviolence. There is also a U.S.-based branch of the organization, American Friends of the Parents Circle, that operates out of New York. This sector helps share These organizations continue to foster Israeli and Palestinian relations. Promoting Peace in Time of War ASHLEY ZLATOPOLSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Parents Circle-Families Forum consists of Israeli and Palestinian families who have lost a family member to violence. PARENT’S CIRCLE PARENT’S CIRCLE Brenda Rosenberg