Greening Palestine: Presentation and Eco-Justice Iftar

Join us for a presentation from Simon Awad, the executive director of the Environmental Education Center (EEC), Beit Jala, West Bank.

This event is co-sponsored by the Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations at HIU, the Center for Transformative Spirituality at HIU, the Muslim Coalition of CT, and the New England Synod of the ELCA.

The EEC is a non-profit center that is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). The EEC tackles all environmental issues and their effects on social, cultural, and economic aspects of Palestinian life, and contributes to the sustainable development of society. It is a pioneer in the field of environmental awareness and education and has used a range of tools to provide environmental education in Palestine for the last 34 years.

For example, its botanical garden (adjoining a wilderness area outside Bethlehem) showcases a range of native Palestinian trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and herbs, creating an immersion in natural beauty and allowing visitors to both experience and learn about this ecosystem, including pharmaceutical and traditional relationships with plants. Its bird center draws researchers from around the world, and its advocacy efforts speak to the critical importance of protecting and restoring ecosystems and creating healthy human relations with land, creatures, and water for the whole region.

Following the presentation there will be an Eco-Justice Iftar to break the fast.

The event will be held in person at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and enjoy a meal together in a sustainable setting. See you there!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Hartford International University for Religion and Peace, 77 Sherman Street, Hartford, United States