Oz Veshalom-Netivot Shalom was founded in 1975 in order to present an alternative expression of religious Zionism. It is committed to promoting the ideals of tolerance, pluralism, and justice, concepts which have always been central to Jewish tradition and law.

As the only religious Zionist peace organization of its kind, we are in a unique position to counter fundamentalist and extremist political arguments that have erroneously placed the value of the Land of Israel ahead of human life, justice, and peace -- concepts which have always been central to Jewish law and tradition. We seek to effect a fundamental change within the national religious community and throughout Israeli society by endeavoring to:


Demonstrate support for the peace process on the basis of political reality and justice.
Enhance Jewish unity and pluralism among Israel's religious and secular publics.
Practice coexistence and support for equality for Israel's Arab minority.
Advocate political rights for Palestinians, including the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Oz Veshalom-Netivot Shalom's activities have received extensive media coverage, both local and international. In addition, the movement issues frequent press releases and is often asked for a response to unfolding events. Its leaders publish opinion pieces in local newspapers and appear frequently on television and on the radio.

Oz Veshalom-Netivot Shalom's programs include both educational and protest activities. Seminars, lectures, workshops, conferences and weekend programs on a variety of topics are held for youth, students, educators and families, while protest activities focus on issues of human rights, co-existence between Jews and Arabs, and responses to issues of particular religious relevance.

Oz Veshalom-Netivot Shalom's educational forums attract not only religious Israelis, but also secular people who are keen to deepen their Jewish knowledge and to hear an alternative religious standpoint on the subjects of peace and social issues. In many respects, therefore, Oz Veshalom-Netivot Shalom fills the ideological vacuum which has been created and counteracts the stridency which is emerging in the right-wing community.

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