The community center in Israel's largest Bedouin town, Rahat, received the medal from President Isaac Herzog for its volunteer actions since October 7. In a hangar that brings together Jews and Arabs in Rahat, hundreds of volunteers help southern families affected by the war and soldiers. The director of the Rahat community center, Foad Zeadna, was decorated during an official ceremony in Jerusalem.
"I deeply thank the President for this award. The creation of a Jewish-Arab hall is the result of a joint effort and a deep commitment to coexistence, mutual understanding and the promotion of peace and security between communities We are proud to lead this initiative and prove that by working together it is possible to overcome differences and build a better future,” said Foad Zeadna.
Since the start of the war, many volunteers, Jews and Bedouins have worked hand in hand, to prepare hundreds of packages offered to families in need. Rahat was the first city in Israel to set up such an initiative which brings together Jews and Arabs around the same cause to show that the unity of the Israeli people is the only response to the Hamas massacres, towards peace sustainable in the region.
Many organizations that promote the rise of young Bedouins in society and encourage the leadership of Arab women are also partners in the project.
The Rahat Community Center initiates cultural and educational projects linked to the development of the Arab-Jewish partnership, which aim to bring people together and break down prejudices.
Caroline Haïat
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