Israelism: Film Screening and Panel Talk

Join VOX-POP on Wednesday 2 July for a screening of the documentary 'Israelism', followed by a panel with experts and an interactive long table talk. Organised in collaboration with students from Middle Eastern Studies, this programme provides a safe space for open dialogue and reflection. We will explore how power, norm formation and (im)material structures influence our speech, thoughts and feelings about Palestine and Israel. How do we safeguard academic freedom and make space for honest, constructive conversations within the university?

This programme is in Dutch. The documentary will be screened in English, with Dutch subtitles. If you understand Dutch, but are not comfortable speaking it, you may still participate and speak English.

Daily we are confronted with images and reports of the ongoing genocidal violence in Gaza perpetrated by Israel, with severe humanitarian consequences for the Palestinian population. The dramatic way this reality unfolds contrasts with the cautious response of the university. This attitude raises fundamental questions regarding the role of academic institutions in the public debate and the responsibility to critically address and discuss social issues.

Neutrality is often defended out of a desire to avoid polarisation. But this drive for impartiality can easily lead to silence and uncomfort. This tension is further exacerbated by the reticence of the Dutch government. To what extent does this affect the freedom to speak freely about Palestine, and what deep-rooted beliefs and structures underlie it?

Programme

In this programme, we explore how power, norm formation and (un)conscious structures shape our thinking and speaking about Palestine and Israel. The documentary Israelism, about the intertwinement of pro-Israel views in society and education in the United States, is the starting point. Afterwards, we will reflect on the Dutch context in a panel with experts. What does academic freedom mean today? When does restraint become harmful? And how do we create a safe space for an open and honest conversation within universities?

After the panel, experiences and ideas may be shared during a long table talk - an interactive and a democratic conversation form.1

Agenda

• 13:30 Walk-in
• 14:00 Introduction
• 14:15 Film screening
• 15:30 Break
• 15:40 Panel
• 16:15 Long table talk
• 16:45 End of programme

Access and registration

This event is free and openly accessibly to all who is interested - but keep in mind that the main language is Dutch. You can apply via the sign-up form.

1The Long Table Talk format provides openness, interaction and equality and is inspired by the work of performance collective Split Britches, blurring the line between speakers and audience. Around a long table with 12 chairs, participants can join or leave at any time, while others can alternate them if the chairs are occupied. The table is covered with white paper, on which people are free to draw or take notes during the conversation.

Panel Members