Art is Bringing Palestinian and Jewish People Together Amid Protests in New York City
In the wake of the Hamas-led attack on Israel, political unrest has spread around the world, including here in New York City. But art is bringing these communities together: Hallie Chametzky is Jewish and she’s showing her support for Palestinians through art. “Jewishness for me has always been rooted in activism,” she said.
Her grandparents were politically active, since fleeing Nazi Germany. “I’ve always felt their Jewishness and love for politics were deeply intertwined,” she said.
Hallie participated in the ‘Tot Shabbat for Ceasefire’ in Brooklyn with Jewish for Racial and Economic Justice. They used songs to remember children in Gaza. “Music and art brings people in, reminds people of our connection to people here and to people in Gaza,” said Ty Citerman, a musician who attended the event.
Hallie marched with them to Congresswoman Yvette Clarke’s office, where they placed the ‘birds of Gaza’ to remember victims. “I think it’s very moving to see families with their children coming out to stuff like this,” she said.
Hallie continues her activism through dance. She choreographed a music video for Palestinian American artist Liana Afuni. It’s about the song ‘Mosh Sa2bny’ – which means ‘Don’t leave me alone.’
They screened the video at the People’s Forum, where Palestinian and Jewish artists showed their solidarity to victims in Gaza. “We build bridges,” Afuni said. “I used to be an engineer so I’m all about building bridges.”
Francesca is an Italian reporter covering politics for City Newsroom. She has reported in print, web, audio and video. Francesca speaks three languages.