OV youth leaders Danny Shaket (left) and Ahmad Omeir with sign language interpreters at Gallaudet University.
New York, October 12, 2010—OneVoice youth leaders Danny Shaket and Ahmad Omeir stressed the importance of the future in ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at Gallaudet University, the only liberal arts university for deaf students in the world, in Washington, D.C. on September 30.
Ahmad and Danny were accompanied on stage by interpreters who simultaneously translated their words into sign language for 70 students and professors. Assistant Professor of Government at Gallaudet Dr. Marta Vrbetic introduced Ahmad and Danny and emphasized the importance of international involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In her welcoming remarks, Vrbetic said, “It is about what we can do to help the resolution of this conflict,” not just for the people in the Middle East but for the people in the U.S. too.
Ahmad and Danny shared stories of their personal experiences, which were followed by questions from the students about how peace is possible if Israelis and Palestinians cannot agree on past issues. One student remarked that peace doesn’t seem sustainable in the region and wondered why Palestinians and Israelis cannot just come to an agreement.
The youth leaders explained the need for each side to have their own narrative, while simultaneously working toward a final agreement. “For me it was important that I participate in the change. What I’m doing isn’t giving up. It’s creating hope for my future children,” said Ahmad.
Ahmad with sign language interpreter.
Professor of Philosophy and Religion Kirk VanGilder stated how significant this event was for the students at Gallaudet. “Although our international students bring a wide range of experiences with them from some of the world's conflict zones, we don't always have the opportunity to bring those experiences into a forum of discussion that lets the rest of our community be engaged in learning how others have lived.”
The atmosphere of the event was of mutual respect and admiration. The youth leaders and the audience members shared feelings of being a part of communities that face daily challenges. The event opened a dialogue amongst the students at Gallaudet of how they can help end the conflict and bring about a peaceful resolution by looking towards the future and not back at the past.
Danny with sign language interpreter.
Both Danny and Ahmad cited this tour stop as their most memorable. As a result of the expressive nature of sign language, students asked direct questions that were much more straightforward than the youth leaders had previously received. “We were able to respond by really saying what was in our hearts and minds and get out all of our emotions from the past few days. We were happy to be able to bring the voice of the majority to those who usually do not have a voice that’s heard,” said Danny.
Students (and interpreters) asking Ahmad and Danny questions.
Read about the event in Gallaudet University’s newspaper The Buff and Blue.
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