As expected, we had a three-hour wait at Tel Aviv airport, for four of us. This ended in a two-minute conversation later, and we were allowed to leave.
We were met and driven back to Abu Dis. On the way, we were fortunate enough to see a wonderful panoramic view of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. Tired and weary, we arrived at Dar Assadaqa, were comforted by a delicious meal of fish, rice and salad, after which we retired to our accommodation and the rest of the night was a blur.
SUNDAY
Today has been an eye-opener for all of us. The realisation of the Separation Wall and the way it has affected people in a social, political and economic way. Despite the harsh realities of their lives, the Palestinian women we met today are strong-spirited and have a strong sense of their identity. We have come to realise that biased reporting in the media does not represent the Palestinian community.
We had an incredible and informative visit to the historical and religious centre where staff work tirelessly to preserve the records and information of Palestine from the sixteenth century during the Ottoman Empire right up to the 1940s, including detailed records of land, people's livelihoods and income that had been retained for tax purposes. They also have records of court hearings which provide a very thorough social history. We appreciated the efforts of the staff at the centre in explaining their work even though we arrived very late.
Walking around Abu Dis, we could see the cruel and illogical destruction of the town.
Finally, we had a look at the checkpoint to Jerusalem, and learned of the difficulties and tragedies that occur here for the Palestinians. Palestinians living in the West Bank require permission to enter Jerusalem and to enter the checkpoints, even to visit sick or dying relatives, seeking medical attention or just to pray at Al Aqsa Mosque.
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