We’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions to give you clear answers about Voices of Understanding (VOU) and how we operate. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out!
We are neither. Or both. Although our team may have beliefs that would “traditionally” be considered “pro-Palestine” or “pro-Israel,” VOU specifically has no belief other than that high school students should talk about issues related to Israel and Palestine.
No, in the sense that Voices of Understanding does not “believe” in anything other than that high school students should have a space where they can provide their perspective and listen to possibly a different viewpoint. We believe that people should have a safe space to discuss any issue related to Israel and Palestine.
No, in the sense that Voices of Understanding does not “believe” in anything other than that people have a space where they can provide their perspective and listen to possibly another perspective. If we get high school students talking, we believe we have succeeded.
No. VOU does not receive any funding from any government organization or private organization. We are crowdfunded, meaning that we exist solely based on contributions from individuals.
No. VOU has never received (and will never receive) any support from the Israeli government, the Palestinian Authority, or any other government.
No. VOU helps facilitate dialogue between any high school student and it fully respects those with different viewpoints, ideas, religions, or positions.
Yes, each of our discussions will be guided by a trained facilitator.
Yes, we will provide you with guidelines (which you can also find here) that we ask you to follow to encourage a more meaningful discussion.
Each discussion is intended to last for an hour.
We believe that now is the most challenging time to get people from different perspectives to talk. We also believe that it is the most important time. The ability to discuss any issue about Israel and/or Palestine has completely broken down, and we believe this is harmful to everyone involved. Voices of Understanding encourages safe, honest, empathetic discussion and listening.
Many people want to discuss or learn or voice an opinion, but do not want to be labeled “pro-genocide” or “pro-Israel” or “anti-semitic” or “self-hating Jew.” The confidentiality provides some assurance to participants that this is a safe space to discuss and listen.
We focus on high school students because it’s a formative time when they’re developing their values and communication skills, making it ideal for fostering empathy, open-mindedness, and constructive dialogue that can shape how they approach complex issues throughout life.
The participants meet over Zoom instead of in person because it allows them from different locations to connect easily, eliminate the need for travel, and offers greater flexibility in scheduling. Zoom also creates a neutral and comfortable environment, which can help participants feel more at ease when discussing sensitive topics.
No. VOU will provide you with a link for your meeting.
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Voices of Understanding is a 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Public Charity.
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