Lissan

Lissan-ליסאן-لسان (Arabic for "language" or "tongue") is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting gender and social equality in Jerusalem. We work to bridge the divide between East and West Jerusalem by advancing linguistic justice and envisioning a bilingual, Hebrew-Arabic city. Our practical, accessible Hebrew language courses are tailored to meet the needs of East Jerusalemite Palestinian women, equipping them with the language skills necessary to navigate Jerusalem’s public sphere independently and access essential resources, rights, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Our shared, multicultural community of Jewish Israeli and Palestinian staff and volunteers collaborates to foster a more just and equitable Jerusalem. With over a decade of experience, Lissan has trained educators, developed specialized pedagogical materials, and built a strong network of over 3,000 alumni, while maintaining close relationships with the East Jerusalem communities we serve.