After Minyan on Wednesday, April 30th, we’ll be joined by leaders in the Standing Together movement, whose mission is to bring equality, political and climate justice to all citizens of Israel, and peaceful coexistence with Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza. On the Eve of Yom HaAtzma’ut, which celebrates 77 years of Israeli independence, Itamar Avneri and Angela Mattar — a Jewish and Palestinian leader — will talk about the challenges and bright spots they’re seeing, and how we here in Chicago can push for the Israel we know is possible.

Angela Mattar is a Palestinian activist, medical student, and leader in Standing Together. Born and raised in the Galilee village of I’billin, she was driven to activism after witnessing deepening discrimination and violence against Palestinians. The aftermath of October 7th became a turning point, propelling her to join Standing Together and fight for justice through non-violent resistance. On campus, she leads efforts to build Jewish-Palestinian partnerships and confront systemic discrimination, while her activism extends beyond university walls — resisting land theft in places like Al-Makhrour, Beit Jala. Angela’s work is fueled by hope for justice and equality, both in broader society and within her own Palestinian community, where she strives to challenge fear and inspire young people, especially young girls, to believe in their power to create change.

Itamar Avneri was born and raised in Kfar Hachoresh, Israel, a small kibbutz near Nazareth. For the past 15 years, he has been living in Tel Aviv. Itamar has a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and sociology from Tel Aviv University,and a master’s degree in cultural studies from the Hebrew University. He is one of the original founders of the Standing Together movement and a current member of the movement’s national leadership. Itamar is also currently serving as a council member for the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Municipality.”

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