[Jerusalem, Israel] — In response to the recent horrific attack by Hamas on Israel, occupational therapists, researchers, lecturers, and clinicians at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have come together to express their deep concern and disappointment at the silence of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) regarding the Hamas attack on Israel and tragic events that unfolded on October 7th, 2023.
The group, representing a wide range of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of individuals through occupational therapy, has penned a letter addressed to WFOT President Samantha Shann. The letter underscores their shared humanity, echoing President Shann's message from World OT Day on October 27, which emphasized the unifying power of the occupational therapy community.
In the letter, the group expresses their disappointment that WFOT has not yet condemned the horrific attack on Israel, the violence and rape against women, children and the elderly, which resulted in the loss of 1400 innocent civilian lives, including foreign nationals from over 20 countries. Furthermore, over 200 hostages, including babies, children, individuals with special needs, and the elderly, are being held captive by the Hamas, among them Carmel Gat, an occupational therapist and graduate student at Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
The letter implores WFOT to take immediate action and call for the release of these hostages, especially in light of the critical need for medical care for the wounded and those with chronic diseases. The occupational therapists at Hebrew University believe that WFOT, an organization committed to social and occupational justice and the principles of humanity, should align with the World Health Organization's (WHO) call for the immediate release of hostages, as well as access to and medical support for those affected by this crisis.
In the spirit of solidarity and their shared commitment to promoting the well-being of all individuals, the group has collected signatures from occupational therapists, researchers, lecturers, and clinicians at the Hebrew University, urging WFOT to take a strong stance against the events in Israel.
"We believe in the power of our occupational therapy community to make a meaningful impact, and we call upon WFOT to join us in condemning this heinous act and advocating for the immediate release and care of those affected by this tragedy," the letter concludes.
The occupational therapists at Hebrew University stand united, and they hope that their call for action will prompt a timely and compassionate response from the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.
For further information, contact: Prof. Naomi Weintraub; naomi.weintraub@mail.huji.ac.il