Holy Land Film Festival explores life in the Middle East through the eyes of its people

Northfielders have the opportunity to go beyond the headlines out of the Middle East to see how its residents deal with matters of peace and justice. Sponsored by Northfielders for Justice in Palestine/Israel, the films, “Occupation 101,” “Jaffa, The Orange’s Clockwork” and “The Israel Lobby,” offer storiss of the conflict between Israel and Palestine through the eyes of its Christian, Jewish and Muslim residents.

All shows begin at 7 p.m. on three consecutive Tuesdays beginning June 12, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 1050 Cedar Avenue, Northfield, and are free and open to the public.

Tuesday, June 12: Occupation 101

The award-winning film “Occupation 101” is a thought-provoking and powerful documentary on the current and historical root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Unlike other films produced on the conflict “Occupation 101” presents a comprehensive analysis of the facts and hidden truths surrounding the never-ending controversy and dispels many of its long-perceived myths and misconceptions.

Tuesday, June 16: Jaffa, The Orange’s Clockwork

Just as apple pie is considered a symbol of American good life, the Jaffa orange has been the symbol of good food in the Middle East. This wide-ranging documentary considers the Israeli- Palestinian conflict from the point of view of a dispute over branding. Israeli filmmaker Eyal Sivan examines how both East and West have politicized this most prized orange.

Tuesday, June 26: The Israel Lobby

This documentary, based on a 2006 article of the same name, sheds light on the strong ties between the US and Israel. It does so by examining the powerful pro-Israel lobby, and the lengths to which the lobby goes to stifle any criticism of Israel by those in public office. Narrating the story are military figures, academics, televangelists, lobbyists, journalists and others.

NJP is an ecumenical group of community members who organize local events to educate and advocate for justice and peace in Palestine/Israel. Members of the committee are available to speak about their experiences in Palestine/Israel.

For more information about the event or NJP, contact committee member Bill McGrath at 507-645-7660.