Pro-active Investment
In 2004, at the 216th gathering of the General Assembly, the Presbyterian Church affirmed its intention to "move forward as soon as possible, for the purpose of creating currents of wider and deeper Presbyterian involvement with Palestinian partners, aimed at demonstrating solidarity and changing the conditions that erode the humanity of Palestinians living in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza."
In 2006, as a further expression of these intentions, the church committed itself at the 216th General Assembly to "identify affirmative investment opportunities as they pertain to Israel, Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank."
In response to those General Assembly decisions, the Israel/Palestine Mission Network is seeking to identify affirmative investment opportunities which will enable American Presbyterians to partner with Palestinians to improve their economy. While there are readily available opportunities for investment in Israeli-owned businesses, less is known about similar opportunities for investment in Palestinian territory. We are currently engaged in conversations exploring interests and opportunities. If it seems appropriate, we may organize a trip to explore these in the field, probably in 2009.
To join in those conversations and share your own interests and ideas, please contact Donald Mead (mead@msu.edu) or Peg Griffiths (mgriffithsphd@comcast.net).
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