United Nations Association Greater Seattle Chapter

Last month, we were extremely delighted to learn that Abed Al Hadi Basheer, a Palestinian early child education leader from Gaza, was accepted for doctoral studies at the College of Education at Washington State University and finally successful in securing his student visa at the U.S. Consulate in Jerusalem.  Abed faced considerable challenges on his journey from Gaza to Pullman [see Moscow-Pullman Daily News story:  http://www.iexaminer.org/news/features/wsu-student-gaza-strip-resident-granted/], but he is now at the Palouse, and eager to commence his Ph.d.  Upon completing his Ph.d, Abed looks forward to returning to his native Gaza to devote his professional career to developing a nonprofit organization to educate at-risk Palestinian children.

Thanks to the combined efforts of innumerable friends at Amnesty International, the College of Education faculty at Washington State University, University of Idaho, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, the United Nations Association, and human rights organizations throughout Washington state, and Europe, Abed has finally been able to realize his dream.  This year, however, he faces an equally formidable challenge, perhaps one as daunting as the one he just endured.  Abed needs your financial support to supplement the modest assistance he has received from WSU to begin his graduate studies.  As you might imagine, his out-of-state tuition and related expenses are staggering for a foreign student, and amount to more than $20,000 a year.

Those of us who are proud to count Abed Al Hadi Basheer as our friend and colleague, are privileged to support this fine young educator.  He is one of those rare individuals who is willing to make enormous personal sacrifices on behalf of educating and assisting children.   We are believe Abed is most deserving of our assistance and are confident that he make a lasting contribution to the welfare and betterment of young people in his native Palestine, which already has endured much and now faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.  You can help.  Would you be willing to contribute whatever amount you can to help provide tuition and related assistance for Abed?  If you are, please contact me at collin.tong9@gmail.com, Prof. Dawn Shinew, dshinew@wsu.edu, or John Reinke, jactive@gmail.com.  Thank you again for your generous support.  And warm wishes for the Lunar New Year!

Warm regards,

Collin Tong

Freelance Journalist