February 18, 2010
For Immediate Release

For more information: Michael Minch (801) 863-7482
University Marketing & Communications: Erin Spurgeon, (801) 863-6807
Written by: Chelsey Richardson (801) 863-8504

Utah Valley University’s Peace and Justice Studies Program is focused strongly on sustainable international peace, and it is to that end that they present the annual J. Bonner Ritchie Dialogue on Peace and Justice entitled “The Israeli Palestinian Conflict: Toward Peace” Feb. 17-18. The conference will focus on the Israeli Palestinian conflict and possible solutions.

“This year, as always, we are exploring a vitally important topic with the help of several guest scholars and activists,” said Michael Minch, Peace and Justice Studies program director. “Nearly all Israelis and Palestinians want to live with one another in peace. The decisions and actions of a minority among both peoples have thwarted that desire. We will not only learn about the problem, but also about crucial aspects of the solution.”

The presentations will address the challenges facing Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the creation of a Palestinian educational system, and the obligations and responsibilities that Americans and the international community have in making sure a sustainable peace is realized. Guest speakers will include Jeff Halper, Anna Baltzer, Jennifer Loewenstein, Riham Barghouti, Jason Hicks and Blair Van Dyke.

Speeches and presentations will take place in the UVU Library Auditorium (LI 120), from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Wednesday and from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. on Thursday. This event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited.

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