Welcome to West Shore's Social Action Film Series
We hope to present, on a monthly basis, documentary films on a variety of important and relevant issues. These films will be free and open to the public and will occasionally be accompanied by speakers who are authorities on that month's topic. We also invite you to stay after the film for refreshments and conversation!
Mark Your Calendar
"USA vs Al-Arian "
Saturday, June 9, 7:00 p.m.
Winner of the Jury Prize, Best Film Award at the 8th Annual New Orleans International Human Rights Film Festival, "USA vs Al-Arian" is an intimate family portrait that documents the American-Muslim family Al-Arian's desperate attempt to fight terrorism charges leveled by the U.S. Government.
In February 2003, university professor and pro-Palestinian civil rights activist Sami Al-Arian was arrested in Tampa, Florida, charged with providing material support to a terror organization. For two-and-a-half years he was held in solitary confinement, denied basic privileges and given limited access to his attorneys.
The film follows Sami Al-Arian's wife Nahla and their five children throughout his 6 month-long trial. It is an intimate family portrait that documents the strain brought on by the trial, a battle waged both in court and in the media. This is a nightmare come to life, as a man is prosecuted for his beliefs rather than his actions.
The film raises questions on whether it is possible for a man like Sami Al-Arian to receive a fair trial in the United States. It presents democracy in a new light in a post-9/11 culture of fear, where "security measures" trump free speech and punishment is meted out in the name of protection.
Please stay after for refreshments and conversation.
Run time: 98 minutes. FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. FREE PARKING
To view a trailer, click here.
Hosted by West Shore Social Action Committee
Questions? Call 440-333-2255