There are few opportunities to illustrate that some people are working with a different mindset—not following the usual divisions like Israel vs. Palestine, and Left vs. Right — that are dragging our world into unnecessary tensions, insecurity, and violence. Standing Together (ST) is one such organization, whose members have a different sensibility and vision for the future.
Anat Meiri, through her work with the Friends of Standing Together (FoST) in NYC, exemplifies one of the twelve Principles of Valid Action described by Argentine writer and thinker Silo in his book The Inner Look: “It does not matter in which faction events have placed you. What matters is that you comprehend that you have not chosen any faction.”
The principle underscores that our outlook on things often results from factors completely beyond our control: cultural influences, historical context, family background, geographical location, and more. These factors are a circumstance of our birth and play a decisive role in shaping our opinions and the “side” or group with which we identify. By comprehending that we didn’t choose our “faction,” we gain a crucial perspective that allows for critical reflection and a greater openness to others’ perspectives. The principle is perhaps more urgent than ever, given the exacerbated divisions currently playing out across the planet.
Anat describes this perspective well in her testimony:
“There are many peace organizations of Jews and Palestinians in Israel/Palestine. I chose to support ST through my work with FoST because ST, as a group composed of Jewish and Palestinian citizens of Israel, is taking action to change the political landscape within Israeli society. They do so democratically, with skill and initiatives that represent the needs of all people, based on mutual interests, amplifying a voice that humanizes everyone on both sides. We are not exclusively pro-Israel or pro-Palestinian—we are pro-ALL people, from the river to the sea.
For the past year and a half, we have gathered in Union Square every Sunday for our weekly protests alongside the organizers from Israelis for Peace. We often have speakers—Jews and Palestinians alike—who believe in our mission of ending the war, releasing the hostages, and ending the occupation. We are met with both cheers from passersby and attacks. I can’t say I’ve learned anything new from this experience, but it has served me in several ways:
One day in the future, when my child learns about the atrocities committed by the Israeli army and government in Gaza and the West Bank, I will be able to tell my daughter that I did what I could to resist.
We hear from many Palestinians how much it means to them that we are out there, supporting them and calling for an end to their suffering.
Standing with people who share my perspective—especially now, when my relationships with family and friends have suffered because of my opinions—has been lifesaving.”
The highest attainment lies in awakening to our fundamental interconnection and not giving in to the emotional pull of tribalism.
We owe gratitude to those brave enough to stand united—the genuine heroes who construct worlds, civilizations, societies, neighborhoods, and communities. Our collective bond forms our only true foundation; everything beyond this connection is merely illusion.
