In light of the ongoing crisis in Gaza, a local group called the People’s Perseverance is hosting a screening of the film "Israelism," an art exhibit, panel discussion, and question and answer session as conversation among neighbors on Wednesday, July 23 at the Harbor Theater, 185 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, from 6-8 p.m. Doors open at 5:30. This event is free to the public.

The film "Israelism" is a documentary that explores the education of American Jews through Birthright Israel, the power pro-Israel lobbies and how these efforts fail in educating Jews about the military occupation of Palestine, the ongoing theft of land and denial of rights for the Palestinian people. Panelists will discuss the film in light of their own work in educating others about the Palestinian cause and the current crisis in Gaza.

Come early to see the art exhibit with the works of Reverand Loren McGrail. Rev. McGrail is a UCC minister, who served in Israel/Palestine. Her theological praxis includes making meaning and seeking God in the broken places of our lives. She is also an artist, writer, poet, and theologian, and will also be one of the panelists. Her exhibit, entitled "Out of the Ruins," contains images of her time in Gaza and her experiences there.

Panelist Faisal Khan is a civil and human rights advocate and founder of the Carolina Peace Center. Mr. Khan is dedicated to advancing justice, equity, and democratic values through grassroots organizing, civic engagement, and public policy work. His advocacy spans key issues including anti-Muslim racism, immigrant and refugee rights, voting rights, women’s rights, and the protection of civil liberties. Panelists Claire Muscat and Joe Pearl from Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) will discuss their work about utilizing dialogue as a way to build intentional community, and raise awareness around the rights of Palestinians.

The question and answer portion of the event will be moderated by Dr. Abby Fuller, professor of sociology and USM and an active member of the Maine Voices for Palestinian Rights (MVPR) and the Maine Coalition for Palestine (MCP). The MCP is a coalition of statewide organizations, including MVPR and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), that is active in organizing campaigns to stop Israel’s attack on Gaza since Oct. 7 and US funding of the war, with tactics that range from calling congressional representatives, to holding educational events and committing acts of civil disobedience designed to raise awareness, helping to change public opinion and support for changing legislation.

This event comes on the tails of the July 5 panelist event, where a moving evening of truth-telling, consciousness raising and deep solidarity was found. This event continues the effort to have a discussion among neighbors concerned about the crisis in Gaza and how individuals, collectively and individually can effect change that recognizes and advances the rights of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.