It is an enormous privilege to start 2023 as the new Chief Executive Officer at Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).
Having lived in Hebron, in the occupied West Bank, I have seen first-hand some of the indignity that Palestinians living under occupation and discrimination experience on a daily basis. The humiliation people face having to cross checkpoints to go to work or the shops. The outrage of children being tear-gassed on their way to school. The devastating, daily violence which has taken the lives and dreams of so many.
MAP is a special organisation and I have always been incredibly impressed by its clarity and vision for a brighter future for Palestinians; its commitment to building long-term partnerships; and its ability to respond quickly during emergencies. I am also struck by the great generosity of people like you.
This year, we are going to need our supporters more than ever. There is no sign of the deadly violence against Palestinians in the West Bank abating, and in Gaza despair continues to grow as basic resources like medicines dwindle. 2023 will also mark the 75th anniversary of the Nakba (“Catastrophe”), as a new generation of Palestinian refugees are born into the dire context of dispossession and humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
As the situation deteriorates for Palestinians across the region, so must MAP rise to the challenges. I am confident that we will be able to do this, thanks to our talented staff and partners, and, crucially, the kindness of our supporters.
I wish you all a happy, and hopeful, new year. I can’t wait to get to work.
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