Dear Friend,

Rosh Hashanah is traditionally a time of reflection, and this year, with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in recent days, that sense of introspection is deepened.

Thinking back on this time last year, for the first time ever, Israel’s governing collation included an independent Arab Party– a truly milestone. Yet what we’ve seen since then is a continued threat both in Israel – and around the word – to the future of democratic and open societies.

Bibi and Likud aim to insert greater political influence in judicial appointments, curtail the Supreme Court, and weaken the attorney general. Last month, Itamar Ben Gvir declared his intention to seek a law enabling deportation of Arab citizens and those deemed disloyal to the State of Israel.

Despite these setbacks, your support, together with the work of our grantees, gives me hope. Your donation will defend democracy and fight for fairness and freedom.

Your generosity means Shatil can continue to train hundreds of leaders and support dozens of organisations to shape the understanding of those running for office and secure policies and action from whoever forms the next government.

With your support, FakeReporter are exposing and stopping attempts to use social media to mislead voters, exposing and disarming fake accounts and disinformation campaigns.

You are backing passionate Jewish and Arab leaders and the people-powered movements that encourage hundreds of thousands of Israelis across the country to put aside their differences and stand together to create change, such as increasing voter turnout.

Governments come and go. The people and projects you support to fight for a better fairer future are here to stay.

Together, we create a fairer and better Israel for all.

Thank you for all your support and for being a defender of democracy.

Wishing you, your family, and all close to you a sweet, happy and healthy New Year.

Warm regards,

David Davidi-Brown