Practice the change you want to see in the world: Transformative practices of social movements in Israel.

Abstract

This study explores the psychological challenges to social movements in the face of structural and cultural violence, and the cognitive and behavioral practices that help overcome these obstacles. It presents 3 case studies of social movements that brought about political and social transformation in Israel in the past 15 years: the struggles against industrial pollution in the city of Ashkelon; for the rights of the LGBT movement in Jerusalem; and of young Jews and Palestinians working against institutional discrimination in the city of Lydda. The research utilized qualitative methods: participative observations and interviews. We followed each group for approximately 1 year and documented its main activities for social change, as well as internal meetings and decision-making processes. We also conducted follow-up interviews with some of the groups' leaders after their goals were accomplished. Public Significance StatementOur research revealed 3 main practices used by social movements to effectively address psychological challenges: a complex view of identities; commitment to a moral compass; and the initiation of small and symbolic acts. Using these practices, the social movements we followed challenged the violent ground rules of a conflict situation, and promoted deep cultural and structural transformation.

Ribbons of Belonging

“…David and Rubel-Lifschitz (2018) presented a case study that explored how groups can overcome challenges involved in social change movements involving unjust, violent social structures. The case study took place in Israel and utilized the research tradition of conflict transformation.…”

“…The case study took place in Israel and utilized the research tradition of conflict transformation. “The conflict transformation tradition suggested that transformation from unjust unequal structures to equal just structures should occur through practices of power with others as opposed to power over others ” (David & Rubel-Lifschitz, 2018, p. 11). The ability to engage people in power with others involves identifying people with shared ideas who set “goals that use resources to promote those goals, for the sake of all members of society.…”

“…The ability to engage people in power with others involves identifying people with shared ideas who set “goals that use resources to promote those goals, for the sake of all members of society. The ability to engage people in collective action is based on this principle” (David & Rubel-Lifschitz, 2018, p. 11). The researchers identified three major challenges facing individuals involved in cultures of domination, but wanting to make change for a more just society.…”

“…The Israeli government had decided to expand the coal-fired power plant in Ashkelon, Israel. “Coal firing generating plants are the most polluting, and do severe harm to the physical environment, causing human diseases and death” (Tal, as cited in David & Rubel-Lifschitz, 2018, p. 13). Through concentrating on stories from activists, the researchers, acting as consultants to the activists for one year, identified practices that allowed constructive collective action.…”

“…We initiated conversations with people. We asked them, ‘Do you understand the meaning of this move for climate change and on your health?’ Come—join our struggle” (David & Rubel-Lifschitz, 2018, p. 13). Many whom the activists talked with were worried about losing work if the power plant was not built.…”