Open Palestine or Closed Palestine? The Present and Future of Christians in Palestine

On October 11 at 7 pm, at Beit Zatoun, you're invited to to join speaker Varsen Aghabekian at Open Palestine or Closed Palestine? The Present and Future of Christians in Palestine.

Playing on the title of the recent film, Open Bethlehem, which looks at Christian life in the city of Bethlehem, Varsen Aghabekian will outline the very precarious and possibly extinct presence of Christians in this fabled town and the entire Holy Land.  From her many roles and current position, Aghabekian offers insights into the impact of Israel’s military occupation on the Christian population with special emphasis on Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  She outlines strategies and steps being taken to maintain and strengthen the Christian presence for the future.  Followed by Q&A.

About the speaker:  Varsen Aghabekian lives in Jerusalem and holds a Ph.D. in Administrative & Policy Studies-Education from the University of Pittsburgh/USA (1988) and a M.Sc. in Nursing Management from Indiana University/Purdue University (1983).

Dr. Aghabekian has a very long history of writing studies and participation in institutions and policy development on matters of Jerusalem, education, youth, women and management.

Currently she is the Operations Director at the Negotiations Support Project. Previously she served as Manager of Capacity and Institution Building at the office of the President (2006-2009) and as the Executive Director of Jerusalem Capital of Arab Culture in 2009.

Dr. Aghabekian has been a founder and active member of several NGOs.  Most recently, she was elected the Commissioner General for the Palestinian Independent Commission for Human Rights in January 2016.

Other details:
– Doors open at 6:50
– $5 donation (suggested minimum)
– Accessible on demand via portable ramp; washrooms not accessible
– Please avoid using strong-scented products due to sensitivities

Tasty refreshments (non-alcoholic) with Zatoun oliveoil+za’atar dipping

Hosted by Canadian Friends of Sabeel—Toronto network.

Beit Zatoun, 612 Markham St. (1 minute from Markham exit at Bathurst Station).