Mission Statement
As Americans and Democrats eager to see our country change direction after years of Republican mismanagement, we share a deep concern regarding the tragic Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Electing a Democratic president in 2008 will provide an opportunity to improve U.S. standing in the Middle East and strengthen the hands of peacemakers in the region.
We recognize that some Democrats hold biased and harmful views regarding the conflict. This is partly the result of ignorance; it is also because of the ‘Israel right or wrong’ lobby that has distorted our foreign policy. A more balanced, fair, and engaged US policy will ultimately serve most Israelis and Palestinians far better.
To serve the ends of peace with justice in Israel, Palestine, and in the Middle East, Olive Tree Democrats will:
- Strengthen the hands of Democratic candidates who are willing to stand up for a just and comprehensive Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement.
- Pass resolutions at state party conventions and at the platform committee of the national convention.
- Initiate public campaigns to strengthen or weaken candidates on the basis of their statements on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The vast majority of Democrats – and Americans – support a negotiated, just, and peaceful solution between the Israel and the Palestinian people, as represented by their lawfully elected governments. OTD believes that any just solution will require the establishment of two states as a precondition for achieving a lasting peace, and that the 1949 Green Line armistice line must serve as the basis for any future border or territory swaps. Palestinian claims regarding refugees, restitution, equal rights and freedom of movement must be seen as the equal of Israeli security needs. OTD’s approach is consistent with that of most Israeli and Palestinian peace organizations, the current Arab League peace initiative, international law and UN resolutions.
OTD founders and members include Democrats with diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. We are affiliated with the Progressive Democrats of America (PDA), which provides our administrative support. PDA is a Democratic political organization that endorses candidates, raises political donations, and lobbies Congress. These are activities that many organizations who share OTD’s sentiments are unable to do. Please join us in bringing the requisite pressure to bear on Congress and the Democratic Party needed to advance peace and justice in Israel and Palestine.
This mission statement was drafted in April of 2007. It is based on, and flows from the I/P policy position adopted by Progressive Democrats of America. This statement represents our ‘points of unity’ on which activities are based; individual members may hold – and advocate for – slightly different views.
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1.
Priscilla Rich | April 24, 2007 at 3:25 am
I am most impressed with your mission. However, I have talked with many peace advocates who believe a one state solution is the real solution. I agree. I believe that One Country, authored by Palestinian-American Ali Abunimah, has the broad wisdom of what both people are asking for – and based on other bi-ethnic conflicts, as he describes in this brilliant book. I would sign on to your project, if you include this solution as another humane solution that deserves attention. If the Arab world embraces this, and there is enough western support for it, I do believe this would be the real test of Jewish/Arab co-existence. It deserves a solid look.
2.
clenchner | April 24, 2007 at 4:02 am
Many serious people are talking about a one state solution. However… these serious people do not have the support of either the Israeli peace movement or the Palestinian political parties comprising the vast majority of voters in the West Bank and Gaza.
Which recognized organization or leader of national stature in the Palestinian, Israeli, or US would champion a one state solution? A one state solution should be discussed; but that’s all it deserves. Olive Tree Democrats is primarily about gaining political traction in the Democratic Party. And we are not the proper forum for competing visions of peace and justice in Palestine; we represent the vision already in place and supported by the peoples in question.
In order to focus on the ‘tasks at hand’ and avoid endless debate I’ll be keeping one state/two state comments off the website for the time being.
For those looking for more, check out excellent contribution.
3.
Brien Kinkel | June 5, 2007 at 3:36 pm
I propose the follow additions to the “Olive Tree Democrats will:” section”
4. Encorage elected officials to meet with constituents and representatives of all points of view in the Israeli-Palestinian and Israeli-Arab conflicts, and to facilitate such meetings.
5. Encourage elected officials to visit Israel, the Occupied Territories and neighboring Arab states, to ascertain the true facts on the ground through first-hand observation and contact with representatives of all parties to the conflict, and to facilitate such visits.