We love you Palestine, we love you

Join us on Sunday 1 December at the Newtown Community Centre for a screening of Occupied.

Occupied is the story of young Palestinians debating the choices made and the path walked – while decoding a future that is equal parts promising and uncertain. Occupied. Something different from any other documentary/film in a similar category. It’s not just a story of occupation and suffering. It’s the story of the strongest souls in the world, resisting that force, through the power of art, music, dance and culture. Through five subjects, the story captures their spirit like no other – one that comes from a belief that their perspective of positivity, unity, love and creativity is not despite the occupation, but because of it. It’s a spirit of living for today and not tomorrow.

On Thursday 29 June 2023, Wellington City Council voted to initiate a Friendly City relationship with Ramallah, the first step in the journey towards becoming sister cities. This is a move that was achieved in no small part through the hard work of local activists affiliated with local groups like Justice for Palestine and Alternative Jewish Voices. Like Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Ramallah is a city recognised for its vibrant arts scene. For example, in 2019, the same year as Wellington was recognised as a UNESCO City of Film, Ramallah became a UNESCO City of Music. A number of the subjects in Occupied come from this scene and discuss their resistance involvement in Palestinian cultural life.

Over a year since Israel ramped up its genocide in Gaza, it is imperative that we continue demonstrating our support for the Palestinian people and sending a message that they are not forgotten. Sending a message out to the NZ goverment, we will not stand as they continue complicity in Israel's genocide.

Please be aware that this film explores the violence of everyday life under Israeli occupation and could be upsetting, particularly for younger viewers.

About the screening event:

Arrival from 5.30pm with the screening starting promptly at 6:00pm
Light refreshments will be available and you are welcome to BYO
Venue details are here and please let us know if you have any specific accessibility requirements: https://www.newtowncommunity.o...
All ticket proceeds and donations go to Justice for Palestine