New Film Examines American Jews’ Growing Rejection of Israel’s Occupation

Democracy Now!16 minutes read

Students sued Harvard University for alleged anti-Jewish harassment, amid a rise in reports of anti-Semitism and efforts to limit Pro-Palestinian speech on college campuses. The lawsuit, backed by law firms like Kasowitz Benson Torres, also involves screenings of the documentary "Israelism" at Harvard Divinity School, examining the relationship between American Jews and Israel, and highlights the importance of defending progressive Jewish and pro-Palestinian voices against censorship.

Insights

  • Efforts to limit Pro-Palestinian speech on college campuses have sparked controversy and legal action, such as the lawsuit against Harvard University, indicating a complex landscape of free speech and political tensions within academic institutions.
  • The documentary "Israelism" and the experiences of individuals like Simone Zimmerman and the Jewish studies scholar at Harvard shed light on the nuanced discussions around Israel, anti-Semitism, and the importance of upholding diverse perspectives, challenging stereotypes, and promoting open dialogue even when met with resistance or attempts at censorship.

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Recent questions

  • What is the controversy surrounding Harvard University?

    Allegations of anti-Jewish harassment and intolerance.

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Summary

00:00

Harvard sued for anti-Jewish harassment

  • Six students have sued Harvard University for alleged anti-Jewish harassment and intolerance.
  • Reports of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia have increased nationwide.
  • Efforts to limit Pro-Palestinian speech on college campuses are noted.
  • Former Harvard president resigned amid controversy.
  • Lawsuit against Harvard filed by two law firms, including Kasowitz Benson Torres.
  • Lawsuit mentions student-led marches supporting Palestinian rights.
  • Screening of the documentary "Israelism" at Harvard Divinity School is highlighted.
  • Documentary explores the relationship between American Jews and Israel.
  • Co-director of "Israelism," Aaron Axelman, shares the film's purpose.
  • Simone Zimmerman, a Jewish American activist, discusses her transformation and involvement in challenging the state of Israel.

16:41

Backlash against Jewish scholar criticizes Israeli government

  • A Jewish studies scholar at Harvard University faced backlash for criticizing the Israeli government after being appointed to an anti-Semitism Task Force, revealing the establishment's intolerance towards differing views and opposition to the government's actions in Gaza.
  • Despite facing attempted cancellations of screenings by Jewish groups, the film "Israelism" challenges the conflation of anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism, highlighting the confusion surrounding criticism of Israel even when voiced by Jewish individuals, emphasizing the importance of fighting censorship and supporting progressive Jewish and pro-Palestinian voices.
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