Lebanon is the land of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, inspiring and influencing generations of musicians, writers, filmmakers, artists, historians, and intellectuals. Beirut’s complexity, beauty, and diversity is impossible to capture, even though many have tried. It is a regional and international hub for trade, knowledge, culture, innovation, and a symbol of freedom, resilience, and rebirth; a source of hope and inspiration—the city of light.

In the context of a year of genocide in Gaza, and horrific escalation into Lebanon, on December 14th, we are organizing a fundraiser in collaboration with Riwaq Beirut, Radio Alhara, Operator Radio and Echobox Radio to express our solidarity with the Lebanese people. “City of Light” will feature a full day program to learn from Lebanese history, resilience, and resistance, and an evening of music highlighting artists of the Lebanese diaspora.

In the exercise of our solidarity, we must look to Lebanon, and to the Lebanese people, for guidance. Their freedom, safety, and sovereignty have repeatedly been violated by Israel in a series of wars, assassinations, and political disruptions, yet they remained steadfast in their resistance to aggression and occupation. In our journey as allies, we must acknowledge that we have a lot of learning to do.

"ما حاجتي بك في النور إذا لم أجدك في العتمة"

"What need have I for you in the light if I cannot find you in the darkness?"

Gibran Khalil Gibran

We ask you to consider donating directly to our fundraiser campaign as well.