Explore Waelri Hamati’s musical journey of unity and hope amidst conflict through her emotive Arabic and Hebrew performances in hospitals and shelters.
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Valerie Hamaty
A Voice that Resonates with Hope and Healing
Israeli-Arab singer Valerie Hamaty took to the broadcast “Together We Win” last night, sharing her touching experiences amidst ongoing threats, especially as an Arab-Israeli.
She graced the audience with a moving performance of “Hallelujah” in Arabic, a rendition that stirred great emotion among the viewers and in the studio.
Valerie Hamaty wandered among hospitals, serenading the injured and those seeking shelter in various locations, oscillating between two languages, Arabic and Hebrew.
She conveyed her initial apprehension, questioning the appropriateness of singing in Arabic due to the language’s recent association with terror and violence.
Navigating Complex Identities During Conflict
Being an Arab-Israeli during these challenging times is complicated, Valerie Hamaty expressed.
“There is a feeling that people are being persecuted online, which comes from influential bodies. Arabs are sometimes afraid to express themselves because they feel threatened from both sides,” she explained.
When you want to condemn murder, a universal sentiment of good-hearted people, you find yourself hesitating due to the potential threats that may follow.
She reflected on the difficulties, mentioning that even expressing something positive about Jews could attract threats.
“It is not about taking sides. Every sane person should condemn murder and appalling acts,”
Valerie Hamaty emphasized, pointing to the complexities of the identity crisis that Arab-Israelis sometimes navigate during heightened tensions.
A Journey through Hospitals and Shelters
Amidst the chaos, Valerie Hamaty has been contributing what she can to society – her voice.
Visiting hospitals, she sang to the injured, sharing moments of solace and compassion through her music in various languages.
Her journey took her to the hearts of those enduring immense suffering in the conflict, where she embraced her Arabic and Hebrew roots in her performances.
Despite her doubts, Valerie Hamaty discovered that her Arabic performances were met with the most warmth and encouragement.
“I was embraced very strongly during the Arabic segments. They found solace in these parts, telling me that I am the nation’s hope,”
She revealed, capturing the essence of unity and shared hope amid adversity.
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