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Screening will start at 12:00 PM US EDT; 19:00 Palestine, 18:00 Europe, UK 17:00; Running Time 52 minutes, 1968, English language with Arabic subtitles. The screening will be followed by Q&A discussions with the audience.
About the Film
The 1968 film "Aftermath" is a documentary produced by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) that sheds light on the plight of Palestinian refugees following the Six-Day War.
The film focuses on the situation in Jordan, where many Palestinian refugees had fled after being displaced from their homes in Palestine. It showcases the refugee camps established with UNRWA aid and foreign charity, highlighting the organization's efforts to provide humanitarian support to those in need. The camps are depicted as being overcrowded, with makeshift shelters and limited amenities.
The film also highlights the challenges faced by the refugees, including the harsh winter of 1967/68, which made their living conditions even more difficult. UNRWA's response to these challenges is showcased, including the provision of emergency aid, food, and shelter.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its portrayal of the Palestinian refugees as a people who are determined to rebuild their lives and regain their homeland. Palestinian university students are shown expressing their hope for the future and their dedication to the cause of Palestinian liberation.
The film concludes by calling on the international community to seek a just and lasting resolution to the Palestine case , emphasizing the impact that it has on the future of the children and the peace and progress of the Middle East. This message is particularly poignant, given the ongoing nature of the -Palestinian situation.
It's worth noting that the film was directed by Palestinian filmmaker Samir Hissen, but produced and written by Myrtle Winter, a UN diplomat working with UNRWA. Some critics have pointed out that relief agency films like "Aftermath" often lack the voices of the Palestinian refugees themselves, instead framing them as recipients of humanitarian aid.
Despite this limitation, "Aftermath" remains an important historical document that provides insight into the experiences of Palestinian refugees in the aftermath of the Six-Day War. The film serves as a reminder of UNRWA's ongoing commitment to providing aid and relief to Palestinian refugees, and highlights the need for a lasting resolution to the Palestinian’s sturn to tehir ruggle for self-determination and return to their land.
Overall, "Aftermath" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on an important chapter in the history of Palestine. Its portrayal of the Palestinian refugees' struggles and determination to rebuild their lives is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and serves as a reminder of the need for a just and lasting peace in the region.