12th Grade Informational Text Cultural Activities

Palestinian & Israeli: One question Two Perspectives

In this ebook you will find ten questions posed twice. One response is from a Palestinian & one from an Israeli. The views are moderate, but perspectives are clearly seen and can provide comparative insights into their respective perspectives. 

By asking these questions to both interviewees, we can compare the nuanced views that exist on either side of the conflict. It is important to approach these conversations with empathy and an open mind, as the answers will reflect deeply held beliefs and experiences shaped by a complex history and challenging realities.

The questions are followed by 10 potential assignments and projects aimed at a grades 9 to 12.

Here is a list of 10 questions that you can ask both a moderate Gazan Palestinian and a moderate Israeli:

1. Historical Narrative: How do you understand the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and how does that history inform your perspective on the current situation?
2. Personal Impact: In what ways has the conflict directly affected your life and the lives of those closest to you?
3. Security Concerns: How do you perceive the issues surrounding security and safety for your community, and what measures do you believe are necessary to improve them?
4. Political Solutions: What political solution do you envision as being the most fair and sustainable to address the issues of the conflict?
5. Land and Settlements: What is your stance on the issue of land, settlements, and the right of return for refugees?
6. International Role: How do you view the role of international actors, such as the United States or the United Nations, in resolving the conflict?
7. Daily Coexistence: Are there areas of daily life where you see successful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians, and what can be learned from these examples?
8. Education and Misconceptions: What role do you think education plays in perpetuating or resolving the conflict, and what misconceptions might people on each side have about the other?
9. Economic Factors: How do you believe the conflict has shaped the economic situation for Palestinians and Israelis, and what economic changes would you propose to support peace efforts?
10. Vision for Peace: Can you describe your personal vision for peace and how individuals from both societies can contribute to achieving it?

"Transcending: Voices of Triumph" is a groundbreaking collection of narratives that shines a light on the lives of 20 extraordinary transgender individuals who have risen above challenges to excel in various fields. From artists to activists, scientists to politicians, each story is a testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of the transgender community.

This book takes you on an inspiring journey through diverse experiences and backgrounds, showcasing how each individual has not only navigated their personal transitions but also made significant contributions to society. Their stories are ones of courage, determination, and triumph over adversity, offering powerful insights into the human spirit.

These are the 20:

Elliot Page - An Oscar-nominated actor known for roles in films like "Juno" and "Inception." He came out as transgender in 2020 and has since been an outspoken advocate for transgender rights.

Dr. Rachel Levine - A physician and professor of pediatrics and psychiatry, Dr. Levine is the first openly transgender federal official to be confirmed by the Senate in the United States. She serves as the Assistant Secretary for Health.

Sarah McBride - An American politician and activist, Sarah McBride is the first openly transgender state senator in the United States, serving in the Delaware Senate.

Lana Wachowski - Co-director of the "Matrix" trilogy and "Cloud Atlas," Lana Wachowski is a film director, writer, and producer. She transitioned in the early 2010s and has been open about her experiences as a transgender woman.

Martine Rothblatt - She is a lawyer, author, and entrepreneur, best known for her role in founding several biotechnology companies, including United Therapeutics, and for her earlier work in satellite communications.

Saskia Wieringa (Uganda) - A prominent academic and activist, Saskia Wieringa has worked extensively on gender and sexuality issues, particularly focusing on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in African societies.

Kalki Subramaniam (India) - An activist, artist, and actor, Kalki Subramaniam is a transgender rights activist and founder of Sahodari Foundation, an organization that supports transgender people in India.

Aderet (Israel) - A pop singer known for her unique voice and style, Aderet is a transgender woman who has gained popularity in Israel's music scene.

Tiara Mack (Zimbabwe) - Born in Zimbabwe and raised in the United States, Tiara Mack is a politician and activist. She is known for being the first openly queer Black woman in the Rhode Island Senate.

Ricki Kgositau (Botswana) - A transgender activist, Ricki Kgositau has been instrumental in advocating for transgender rights in Botswana, including a landmark case that allowed for the legal recognition of gender identity.

Lea T (Brazil) - Born in Brazil, Lea T is a well-known fashion model. She has been a muse for Givenchy and has been featured in numerous high-profile fashion campaigns and magazines.

Nisha Ayub - Nisha Ayub is a prominent Malaysian transgender rights activist. She has been a vocal advocate for the transgender community in Malaysia, a country where LGBTQ+ rights are still very much a contentious issue. Nisha co-founded SEED Malaysia, the country's first transgender-led organization, and has worked tirelessly to support the health and legal rights of transgender people in Malaysia.

Vladimir Luxuria (Italy) - A politician, actress, and television host, Vladimir Luxuria was the first openly transgender member of Parliament in Europe, representing the Communist Refoundation Party in Italy.

Jordan Raskopoulos (Australia) - A comedian, actor, and lead singer of the comedy rock band The Axis of Awesome, Jordan Raskopoulos came out as a transgender woman in 2016 and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

Eddie Izzard (United Kingdom) - A stand-up comedian, actor, and writer, Eddie Izzard has had a successful career in comedy and film. Izzard identifies as gender fluid and transgender and has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights.

Jin Xing is a highly celebrated figure, not only as an entrepreneur but also as a dancer, choreographer, and television personality. She is often hailed as one of the first publicly recognized transgender individuals in China.

Kim Petras (Germany) - A pop singer and songwriter, Kim Petras has gained international recognition for her music. She underwent gender transition at a young age and has been open about her experiences as a transgender woman.

Valentina Sampaio (Brazil) - Although primarily known as a model, Valentina Sampaio has also made strides in acting. She is notable for being the first openly transgender model to work for Victoria's Secret and has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights.

Jake Zyrus (Philippines) - Formerly known as Charice Pempengco, Jake Zyrus is a singer who gained international fame through YouTube. He came out as a transgender man in 2017 and has continued his successful music career.

Cleopatra Kambugu (Uganda) - A biochemist and transgender rights activist, Cleopatra Kambugu has been featured in documentaries and has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights in Uganda.

All images in this book are representations of the individuals and not actual photos of the person