Oct 15, 2023
2:00 PM Central

The modern nation of Israel, created by the UN in 1948, is central to the political and cultural life of the American Jewish community. But Israel has also become a deeply divisive subject, as painful generational cracks have emerged within the Jewish community. Points of contention–including Israel’s apartheid policies toward its non-Jewish citizens as well as its oppression of Palestinians living on occupied lands–have led to debate, protest, and even censorship.

Focusing on the stories of two young Americans raised to defend Israel at all costs, Israelism traces their awakening to Israel’s dehumanization of Palestinians and the ongoing violence of the occupation. The film explores the past, present, and future of the relationship between American Jews and Israel, as growing numbers question whether support for Israel should condition and define their Jewish identity. Featuring a range of American Jewish thinkers, community leaders and activists, Israelism asks how and why Israel became the cornerstone of American Judaism, what the consequences have been, and what will happen as divisions continue to grow.

Register below and join us on October 15 at 3:00 PM Eastern for a discussion with:
– Eric Axelman: filmmaker, co-founder of Tikkun Olam Productions
– Simone Zimmerman: Jewish American activist, co-founder of IfNotNow
– Lubna Alzaroo: instructor at the University of Washington specializing in settler colonialism
Our moderator will be Peter Beinart, Editor-at-Large, Jewish Currents; Professor of Journalism and Political Science, Newmark School of Journalism, CUNY; and Publisher, The Beinart Newsletter.

Registration

NOTE: After you register, you will immediately get an Approved response – BUT then look in your email for a message from Zoom with the word “Confirmation” at the end of the subject line…there you’ll find the link and password to watch the film in advance of the Salon event.