Richard Gere visits NSWAS

Actor Richard Gere took time out of a three day visit to Israel and Palestine to visit NSWAS. In the village he visited the kindergarten, and then was greeted by the entire student body of the primary school, as well as by teachers, Village members and many parents.

The children prepared many posters in his honour, performed a debka, and played a musical selection on recorders.

Richard, visibly moved, said he was astonished and delighted by this warm reception.

This was not Richard’s the first exposure to the village, since on April 30 1996 he had served as guest of honour at a benefit concert for NSWAS in New York’s Merkin Hall.

He recalled that event in his words. He also said he thought we were together on a common course and pledged future support.

The visit to Israel, which also involved meetings with key Palestinian and Israeli leaders, was arranged by Bernie Glassman, co-founder of Peacemaker Community, which is represented locally by Spirit of Peace.