Loading ...Ways to Support the Lebanese Community
By: Monica Haddad / Arab America Contributing Writer
In recent weeks, the escalation of violence in Lebanon including aerial bombardments and ground invasions has resulted in widespread destruction and the loss of countless lives. Millions of Lebanese individuals have had their world’s turned completely upside down. Millions of Lebanese people have been forced to flee their homes, lost everything, and are currently displaced. This violence has had a strong impact on the global Lebanese diaspora. In the U.S., Lebanese-Americans have loved ones back home who have been directly impacted by this violence, causing heightened anxiety and stress within the diaspora. This is a trying time for the Lebanese community and there are many ways you can take meaningful action to support our Lebanese family and friends and Lebanese people across the diaspora.
Humanitarian Aid Campaigns & Donations
Sending donations to reputable sources can provide critical support for immediate needs in Lebanon such as food and medical supplies. Contributing to aid campaigns can provide essential supplies and medical assistance to those affected by the violence. Collaborating with reputable Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) focused on delivering aid in Lebanon can maximize your impact. Here are a list of some organizations you can donate to:
- Red Cross of Lebanon
- Lebanese Food Bank
- IRC Lebanon Emergency Relief
- Doctors Without Borders
- SOS Children’s Villages Lebanon
- Lebanon Humanitarian Fund – UN Crisis Relief
Advocacy & Awareness
Raising awareness about the ongoing conflict in Lebanon and its humanitarian implications is vital for efforts of support. You can utilize social media to share informative content, personal stories, and updates from sources that are credible. Organizing educational workshops, discussions, or film screenings can engage community members and foster a deeper understanding of the current situation. Collaborating with local universities or community organizations focused on Arab issues can help facilitate these events. Additionally, contacting your elected officials and advocating for policies that promote humanitarian aid and peace is able to have a strong impact. Means of collective action, such as letter-writing campaigns or participating in peaceful protests and demonstrations, can amplify the community’s voice, urging leaders to speak up against this violence and support the recovery of Lebanon and the safety and wellbeing of Lebanese people.
Emotional Support
Providing emotional support to friends and family affected by the conflict is essential for fostering resilience within the Arab community. Simply being there for friends who are affected is extremely important right now as the emotional toll of recent events is profound as Lebanese people worry and fear for their loved ones. Establishing support groups or safe spaces for open dialogue allows individuals to share their experiences and feelings. Individuals can also organize check-ins, ensuring that individuals with loved ones in Lubnan feel connected and supported, even from hundreds of miles away. If you are able to offer resources such as access to mental health professionals or helplines, it can further assist those struggling with anxiety and trauma. By prioritizing emotional well-being, the Arab American community can help individuals cope with the impact of the conflict and foster a sense of solidarity and hope.
Conclusion
In the face of the recent ongoing violence and humanitarian crises in Lebanon, the Arab American community has a vital role to play in providing solidarity and support. Through humanitarian aid campaigns, advocacy efforts, and emotional support, individuals can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this senseless violence. The Arab community can help alleviate suffering and foster hope for a stronger and safer future for Lebanon and its people. It is important that we play our parts in working toward healing both domestically and abroad.
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