Al-Jana/ ARCPA works with communities that face marginalization in Lebanon, engaging them in documenting their rich and empowering experiences and cultural contributions and in the production of learning and cultural resources.
It is the belief of Al-Jana that the challenges that face these so called "marginalized communities" have enriched their existence and as such have contributed to a stronger sense of community building; creative problem solving; and communal initiative and resiliency. Their vibrant culture reflects this resourcefulness and deep human spirit. Al-Jana operates with the conviction that in working and learning with and from these communities, it is vital to build on their strengths and contributions.
Al-Jana works with children and youth, encouraging them to critically research and learn from the historical and cultural experiences of their community. Much of the work focuses on engaging the children and youth to express their own issues and aspirations while developing skills to convey their inner worlds by way of creative productions and manifestations that inspire and engage young people. The work involves film-making, photography, drama, creative writing, applied arts, performance pieces, and the holistic experience of organizing festivals and carnivals that significantly cater to children and youth. Only through such a gradual process of learning, expressing and ultimately, growth, can children and youth become active agents in community development, advocating community and youth issues and concerns.
One of the key and lasting components of the work is the production and dissemination of learning resources based on the hands-on workshops with children and youth, that in turn inspires and engages other young people.
Al-Jana maintains that the challenges facing "marginalized" communities can only be addressed by working closely with the concerned community and by a concerted effort by all interested bodies and grass-root organizations. Al-Jana facilitates a network of over 60 community centers, pooling resources, and coordinating efforts to promote active learning and creative expression amongst disadvantaged young people.
Al-Jana facilitates forums for exchange, skills development and coordination of efforts amongst grass-root organizations working with disadvantaged children and youth in Lebanon, the region, and leading experiences world-wide.
It is important to highlight the rising levels of intra and inter community intolerance and violence towards and between children. Al-Jana has focused on the creation of a conflict transformation program that also engages young people in becoming active agents in conflict transformation and in promoting a culture of tolerance.
It is the hope of Al-Jana that through its works with the local communities, positive potentials will be unleashed and will contribute towards fostering a culture of tolerance, and healthy diversity in the country they live in. Such work will support the communities to overcome their "marginalization" and support positive engagement with neighboring communities.
