#159 - Sharon Avraham & Sami Awad: The Prayers of an Israeli and a Palestinian Burner

Life is a Festival

In light of the recent tragic events in Israel, particularly the horrific attack at Nova festival, I wanted to offer the global festival community a conversation centered on hope. Today's Life is a Festival episode features Sharon Avraham, co-founder of Midburn, and his theme camp co-producer, Palestinian activist Sami Awad, as they extend a call for healing.

On the show we discuss Midburn, Israel's Burning Man regional event, and Sami’s dedication to nonviolence. The two talk about their joint camp for Israelis and Palestinians at Midburn, reflect on Supernova's heartbreaking events, and share their hopes for the global community's response. Ultimately, we examine how festivals can present an alternative vision for connection and peace.

Midburn, the largest Burning Man regional event in the Middle East, blends the Hebrew term for "desert" with the English "burn.” This year’s event which was set to take place in early November has been cancelled.

Sharon Avraham, co-founder of Midburn and Fugara art collective, uses photography and installations to explore human connections. A passionate artist-activist, he's collaborated with Palestinian Peace Activists, documenting and bridging diverse realities. His works span from intimate portraiture to broader social narratives.

Sami Awad is the Executive Director of Holy Land Trust and is deeply influenced by his family's history in Palestine and teachings of nonviolent resistance. Educated in the U.S., he holds a Master's Degree in International Relations and promotes global peace.

Links

• Midburn || מידברן: Home
• Sharon Avraham
• Holy Land Trust

Timestamps

• (12:00) - Sharon co-creates Midburn
• (15:30) - Sami’s nonviolent activism
• (19:30) - Creating a camp for Israelis and Palestinians at Midburn
• (23:30) - The horror of attacking a festival
• (31:30) - How would Sharon and Sami like the global community respond?
• (38:00) - Why festivals and burns are the alternative

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