Our Whys
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KIDS IN GAZA ARE.... JUST KIDS:
This event puts our shared humanity top of mind.
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​​​GET SLC KIDS INVOLVED IN ACTIVISM:
​Typical rallies and films may be over kids head and way too intense. This event engages children in peace activism, but at their level.
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WELCOME NEWBIES TO THE CAUSE:
Even adults wanting to understand Gaza better can feel overwhelmed. Learning about Mr. Tantesh's Children's Swim Academy is a simple entry point to learn more.
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SUPPORT VETERAN PEACE ACTIVISTS:
Long standing Israeli-Palestinian peace activists are exhausted by the contention and pain that only seems to escalate. Even hard core activists need community building events that bring people across the political spectrum together around shared values - even a value as simple as kids being able to swim.
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​We still wondered if it was appropriate to have a swim in solidarity event in the midst of politically induced famine and war. But Mr. Tantesh asked us to go forward - so that the Gazan civilians, trapped in the crossfires, are not forgotten.
About Mr. Tantesh's Childrens Swim Academy
Amjed Tantesh opened his first swim school in 2000 to just 5 students. Despite enormous difficulties, and against all odds, his swim academy grew to teach thousands of children. And he has found it's true purpose - using swimming to help Gazan kids heal from trauma. He looks forward to the end of the war so he can continue his mission.
“Our children have suffered too much. Swimming will make them laugh again and give them hope. They need, more than ever, to feel that. They need a chance… The kids needed to swim and I am a determined man.”
Swimming IS Activism!
How is going to the pool peace activism?
During the civil rights movement, Mr. Rogers and his friend Officer Clemmons used Mr. Rogers children's television program to protest segregated pools. Putting their feet in the same small pool symbolically demonstrated racial harmony, at a level even a child could understand.
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Swimming in solidarity with the children of Gaza is a way to protest the divisiveness of hate and violence. We want to send a message, particularly to the children in Gaza, that they are not forgotten.
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Mr. Rogers and Officer Clemmons were peace activists who went to the pool.
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Now it's your turn!
What to expect:
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​​Family friendly people of all ages and from all religious & political backgrounds. ALL are WELCOME.
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Swimming, sliding, splashing, lifeguards, bathrooms
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Self touring educational booths for children about "What is activism" and "What is life like for kids in Gaza" and "Mr. Tantesh's Childrens Swim Academy."
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Pictures will be taken and sent to Mr. Tantesh's Swim Academy to show them we're thinking of them​
​This is a peaceful, family friendly event. Hate speech, violence, alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated. ​
Please note:
Sponsored by
