Hollywood stars among thousands who join pledge not to work with Israeli film institutions 'implicated in genocide'
Original story by
NBC News•Sep 11•Politics, Culture
📰 Article Summary
An open letter from the group 'Film Workers for Palestine' has gained over 4,000 signatures, including those from prominent Hollywood figures, who pledge to refuse work with Israeli film institutions, citing complicity in alleged genocide and apartheid against Palestinians. The letter expresses a commitment to using the power of cinema to address these issues during a time of crisis, and emphasizes that the refusal to work with such institutions targets institutional complicity, not individual identities. This initiative mirrors historical actions against apartheid South Africa, urging the international film community to support Palestinian filmmakers and highlight their plight against oppression.
📌 Key Facts
- Pledge Against Israeli Institutions: The pledge initiated by Film Workers for Palestine calls for Hollywood filmmakers and actors to refuse collaboration with Israeli film festivals and production companies implicated in human rights abuses against Palestinians.
- Signatories and Support: High-profile signatories include Oscar and BAFTA winners like Ava DuVernay and Joaquin Phoenix, marking a significant stance among industry members against complicity in perceived injustices.
- Historical Context: The pledge is reminiscent of past initiatives against apartheid in South Africa, demonstrating a continuity of filmmakers using their influence to combat oppression through collective action.
- Reaction and Backlash: The movement has sparked controversy, with instances of backlash against some celebrities who have publicly supported Palestinian rights, highlighting the tension within Hollywood regarding this geopolitical issue.
- Focus on Human Rights: The letter emphasizes a humanitarian perspective, insisting that advocacy for Palestinian rights is not anti-Semitic, but rather a call for recognition and empathy towards all oppressed individuals.
📂 Article Classification
Topic Tags: Film Industry and Political Advocacy
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