The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and ADL Philadelphia condemn the Bryn Mawr Film Institute’s (BMFI) recent decision to cancel the screening of “The Child Within Me” for the 2024 Israeli Film Festival (IFF) of Philadelphia.
Although BMFI states that this decision was made in an attempt to avoid controversy, this action only serves to blacklist Israeli culture, playing into the hands of antisemites who try to deny the Jewish people their voice and existence.
The IFF intentionally offers a multifaceted view of Israeli society. Each season, carefully curated feature films and documentaries provide glimpses into the intricate tapestry of Israeli life, allowing audiences to form their own informed opinions.
We will not stand by as the normalization of such hate becomes commonplace. Our history is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity; the Jewish people have prevailed against attempts to silence and erase us, and we will continue to do so. This is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to celebrating Jewish culture and Israel’s right to exist in all its diversity and vibrancy. We stand firm in our resolve not to let hate dictate the narrative.
We urge BMFI to reinstate the screening of “The Child Within Me” immediately. Let us celebrate cultural diversity, promote dialogue, and recognize the transformative power of film in connecting us all.
COVERAGE:
Thank you to the media for covering this important issue:
- Hoodline
- Mainline Media News
- 6ABC
- CBS3
- KYW Newsradio
- NBC10
- London Jewish Chronicle
- DJV
- JNS
- Algemeiner
- Philadelphia Inquirer
- DJV
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Since 1901, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we invest more than $61 million each fiscal year to care for those in need, combat antisemitism and global crisis, and strengthen Jewish identity.
For more information, please visit: jewishphilly.org.
For press inquiries, email phillyfed@redbanyan.com.
