Pro-Palestine Marchers at Sundance Protest Against ‘Media Complicity in Genocide’

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On Saturday, a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators assembled on Main Street in Park City, carrying signs that read “Zionism is lethal” and “the media conceals the truth.” Approximately 75 individuals braved the snowy weather and freezing temperatures to voice their discontent over the media’s alleged role in covering up genocide. The rally was organized by groups such as Health Care Workers for Palestine, Arabs in Utah, Armed Queers, and Salt Lake Artists Against Genocide, who stated that they have no qualms with the Sundance Film Festival but aim to enlighten and inspire the film industry to portray Palestinian lives more authentically, rather than relying on stereotypical characters and overused narrative devices.

Dalia Salum, a notable speaker, addressed her relatives who were forced to flee due to actions by the Israeli administration. However, she critically pointed out the media, often referred to as the Fourth Estate, for disseminating falsehoods and misleading information about the circumstances in Gaza.

In simpler terms, “Salum questioned the media for not upholding principles such as truthfulness, independence, impartiality, compassion, and responsibility. He wondered aloud why they distort facts to reveal their hidden manipulators like AIPAC, ADL, and JFN.

Salum declined to be interviewed by EbMaster. “I don’t talk to press,” she said.

The evening’s event isn’t linked to Sundance, but it will feature the global debut of Cherien Dabis’ “All That’s Left of You,” a poignant multi-generational drama about a Palestinian teenager who clashes with Israeli soldiers at a West Bank demonstration. On the Sundance website, it is mentioned that the story unfolds from the perspective of his mother, detailing the chain of events leading to that critical moment, starting with her grandfather’s forced relocation.

Today’s Main Street protest aligns with recent events in the Middle East. Just now, Hamas announced the liberation of four hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack. This release occurred following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which was negotiated about a week prior.

Wrapping myself up against the cold, I joined the crowd of protesters voicing cries such as “Israel is a terror state” and “from the river to the sea,” echoing their calls at this bustling hub for independent films. Last year, during a similar rally, some demonstrators branded President Joe Biden as “Genocide Joe,” holding banners that depicted him as a “butcher.” This time around, orators still used the term “Genocide Joe” but paid minimal attention to former President Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, a passerby interrupted the speaker with a shout of “Thank you, President Trump, for releasing the hostages.” A few protesters laughed as the man walked along Main Street.

Mishandi Sarhan, representing Salt Lake Artists Against Genocide and speaking to EbMaster later on, expressed that their primary concern is highlighting the role of the media rather than Trump. She explained, “We haven’t directly criticized Trump because many current protests across the country are centered around him. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the government isn’t the only entity involved in genocide. Instead, other protesters are focusing their efforts on the government. Our goal is to draw attention specifically towards the media, as we believe they contribute to genocide by not accurately reporting it. The media often presents itself as a symbol of truth, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Sarhan said the worst offenders are the New York Post, the New York Times and CNN.

She pointed out that the language used tends to be quite passive when discussing the number of Palestinians who have lost their lives. Instead of explicitly stating the events that lead to these deaths, they often describe them as ‘Palestinians dying during random incidents.’ However, she emphasized that Palestinians are actually dying as a direct result of Israel’s actions, and yet there is a reluctance to openly acknowledge this fact.

In Park City, police officers set up a barrier to separate two groups: the protesters and approximately ten individuals who displayed Israeli and American flags. Doug Rosen, bearing an Israeli flag, voiced his disappointment, stating, “It’s disappointing to witness people who don’t back America or Israel protesting in such an American town as Park City, creating disharmony and fostering division within our nation.

Prior to the protest, a representative from the festival expressed their concern to EbMaster, stating, “The well-being and protection of our festival visitors is always our top priority.” The representative continued by clarifying that the peaceful demonstration was not organized by the Sundance Institute or the festival. They assured constant communication with local and state law enforcement, who are dedicated to maintaining a secure and inviting atmosphere for all attendees. Furthermore, the festival’s Safety and Belonging Team is working diligently to create an environment that reflects the values of the festival within theaters and venues—a place where open dialogue can take place respectfully, ideas can be exchanged passionately, and our collective humanity can be celebrated inclusively and safely.

However, influential figure Hen Mazzig from Israel expressed disagreement towards the demonstration happening at the renowned film festival.

His comment was akin to comparing the current protests to the unrest following the Nova Music Festival tragedy – it’s not about promoting empathy, but rather withholding it from others. He emphasized that genuine storytelling requires bravery and honesty. Unfortunately, these protesters lack both qualities, and in doing so, they dishonor not just Sundance’s principles, but the essence of art as a whole.

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2025-01-26 02:21