The rapid escalation of violence in Lebanon coupled with the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of dwellings and livelihoods is, at the moment, unprecedented. As we navigate these difficult times, we would like to recognize the enormous efforts extended by civil society organizations in addressing the enormous needs of the affected and displaced populations and communities. This is more so important as we realize how insufficient public efforts are. Historically and in dire times, civil society in Lebanon has risen to the challenge and provided much-needed emergency support which has been and continues to be lifesaving. In recent times, such emergency support has been way more inclusive and mindful of intersecting vulnerabilities including sexual orientation, ableism, nationality, etc…
Within this landscape, we would like to highlight some of these amazing mobilizations that are worthy of our recognition and support, namely:
- The Center for Civic Engagement and Community Service (CCECS) at the American University calls on the university community to offer shelter assistance to students and their families in need during difficult times. The CCECS is mobilizing its network, asking those who can provide accommodation or help find housing to fill out an online form.
- Our partner Fifty Fifty, in collaboration with women from South Lebanon and the Bekaa within its network, has launched a support group aimed at providing essential needs to areas under bombardment. The initiative focuses on three critical areas: securing safe shelter, providing food, and offering medical assistance. Those across Lebanon who wish to help are encouraged to join the effort via the provided WhatsApp link. This collective action seeks to create a strong support network to help one another in times of crisis.
- Tarek Zeidan, a queer activist from Beirut, is raising emergency funds to support vulnerable members of Lebanon’s queer community, particularly those in areas under heavy bombardment. While the broader crisis impacts entire populations, queer individuals—especially trans and non-conforming members—are often excluded from humanitarian aid. Tarek aims to provide direct support to 15 individuals in urgent need of housing, medication, and essentials by raising $500 per person per month for two months. Donate here.
- Reach out to the AUB Neighborhood Initiative to support displaced individuals in Lebanon.
At Asfari Institute, we will be dedicating our social media presence for the time being to posting content that connects with and is relevant to the current escalation in violence while at the same time emphasizing the role of civil society as well as the attempts to address the current need using an intersectional feminist lens.