Civil Society Influencer Project
Enraged , angered, and frustrated? How does one respond after watching the genocide in Palestine without first-hand experience on the ground in Palestine or direct contact with Palestinians?
Influential members of civil society play a vital role in shaping public discourse, advocating for justice, and influencing government policy. First-hand experiences in Palestine provide critical insight into the realities on the ground, allowing leaders to witness the political, economic, and social impacts of apartheid and genocide. By engaging directly with those affected, you can contribute to a more informed and just global conversation on human rights, peace with justice, equality, and international law.
About the project
The Civil Society Influencer Project, led by the Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center (Sabeel) in partnership with Canadian Friends of Sabeel (CFOS), envisions peace with justice and equality for both Palestinians and Israelis. It supports the preservation of Palestinian identity and culture while strengthening international solidarity.
This initiative builds international networks of support through visits to Palestine. It is open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents aged 18 and older who have the potential to influence public opinion and decisions through their credibility, engagement, and reach.
About the process
We invite you to “come and see” the political, cultural, economic, and environmental situation in Palestine. You will engage with Palestinians through Sabeel, a long-standing, community-based organization committed to non-violent, inclusive peace with justice.
Participants will:
Meet Palestinians and witness their daily lives.
Connect with community leaders, and human rights advocates.
Learn from Sabeel’s decades of experience in the region.
Stand in solidarity with Palestinians and others committed to justice and equality.
Taking action
Upon your return to Canada, you will be encouraged—and expected—to share your experiences with your networks and communities. With our support, you will:
Advocate for peace with justice and the protection of Palestinian human rights.
Raise awareness of violations such as settler encroachment and property confiscation.
Promote international law and challenge settler-colonial systems.
Engage institutions and governments to uphold human rights and humanitarian law.
Travel details
Ten days that include eight days in Palestine with one day on either end for travel.
September 29-October 9, 2025
December 1-December 10, 2025 (a group of Anglican church leaders will form the basis of this trip)
March 19-29, 2026
April 30-May 10, 2026
September 23-October 3, 2026
Participants must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their date of arrival in Palestine/Israel. An Israeli electronic visa is required prior to travel for all Canadian passport holders (https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/). A two-entry Jordanian visa can be purchased on arrival in Amman.
Costs
Each delegate is responsible for his/her/their travel, health insurance, visas, and any additional border expenses.
Sabeel will provide a 30% subsidy for airfare booked through its agents in Jerusalem. Local costs (food, accommodation, presenters, and ground transportation), including travel from the airport in Amman to Jerusalem return, will be subsidized at over 50% by Sabeel.
Total cost to each delegate is estimated to be $5000 Cdn.
We are available to guide you through the next steps and answer any questions you might have.
Contact us at cfosinfluencer@gmail.com.
