We are outraged by the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and the countless other black men and women, seen and unseen, at the hands of police who feel free to act with impunity. Like you, we are riveted to the enormity of the moment, watching the massive global outcry for change. As a Palestinian organization, we recognize our similar struggles and stand in solidarity with our black brothers and sisters. Black Lives Matter, and all lives can’t matter until black lives do.
Police brutality against black and brown people in this country and around the world is the result of centuries of systemic racism and classism that have affected every aspect of life. It’s up to all of us–black, brown, white–to recognize how deeply ingrained racism is in our society and to commit ourselves to doing everything in our power to eliminate it. This starts with education, self-examination, and listening to black voices and experiences. We are witnessing a historic moment in which the possibility for real systemic change to address over 400 years of generational trauma, oppression, and profound injustice appears to have opened.
How can the Boston Palestine Film Festival contribute? We vow to recognize and stand against racism against our black American brothers and sisters whenever it occurs within our communities. This also means further education and listening on our part from black voices to know where we can help. Furthermore, we provide a platform for Palestinian voices to be heard–this also means black Palestinians. Moving forward, we will be sure to highlight their voices as well. We pledge to create more opportunities for programming with the black community, to gain deeper insight into commonalities of oppression.
Since we were founded in 2007, we are proud that our work has used the power of arts, film, and stories to spotlight equally urgent profound injustices elsewhere–in Palestine. We are honored to embrace this work, and we look forward to continuing our journey with you.
Yours in solidarity,
The BPFF Executive Committee