The cycle of violence and hatred among Palestinian factions and Israel is abhorred by people of good will on all sides of the dispute. One would hardly know from the news that many on both sides favor negotiations. Too many believe their voices will not be heard.

President George W. Bush recently accused those who favor negotiations of supporting appeasement in the manner of Chamberlain at Munich. Driving a small wedge into the cycle of violence is hardly appeasement. Fortunately there are enough Israeli officials who realize this as evidenced by their negotiations with Syria and Hamas.

Many Israeli and American Jews refuse to adopt the thinking of politicians who rail against alternatives to violence. They see that violent response begetting violent response has not made Israel safer. Until now there have been few ways to make these voices heard.

Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, the Jewish Alliance for Justice & Peace, provides such a vehicle. Members come from varied backgrounds and hold differing positions on Israel and Zionism. They do, however, share the belief that an uninterrupted cycle of violence continues to be devastating. They support Israel’s right to defend itself while at the same time supporting the initiation and encouragement of alternative routes to peace and security.

At 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, the newly formed Eastern Chapter of BTV with support from River City Cinema will show the film “Promises” at the Penobscot Theatre on Main Street in Bangor. The film explores the conflict through the eyes of seven Israeli and Palestinian children in Jerusalem. Refreshments and a discussion will held after the film. For more information, e-mail Solutionsbangor@aol.com.

Martin Perfit

Hampden