Manchester Theater Urged to Reinstate Event in Support of Palestinian Literature
Over 300 actors and creatives are calling for HOME Manchester to reverse its decision to cancel a cultural event celebrating Palestinian literature, titled “Voices of Resilience.” The event, originally scheduled for April 22, was shelved after a complaint from the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester.
The cancellation came after the JRGCM accused Palestinian Culture Minister Atef Abu Saif, a participant in the event, of being an antisemite and a Holocaust denier. They also objected to the use of the word “genocide” in promotional materials related to Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Comma Press, the organization behind “Voices of Resilience,” has refuted the allegations against Abu Saif, calling them “baseless and libellous” and threatening legal action.
In an open letter, signatories, including renowned director Asif Kapadia, criticized HOME Manchester for silencing Palestinian voices in a time when they need to be heard the most. Other notable signatories include theater director Pooja Ghai, playwright Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, and actor Maxine Peake, who was set to participate in the event.
Playwright James Harker, supported by Artists for Palestine UK, condemned HOME’s decision as cowardly and shameful, stating that it tarnishes the reputation of Manchester and the arts community.
In response, HOME Manchester defended its actions, stating that it is a politically neutral space committed to welcoming diverse artistic expressions. Their priority is the safety and well-being of their team, audiences, and artists.
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### Cancellation of Voices of Resilience Event
Due to recent public attention surrounding the Voices of Resilience event, we have made the decision to cancel it.
#### HOME’s Commitment to Responsibility
“HOME must always be mindful of our responsibility to those who visit and work here, and our purpose of supporting a wide variety of artists and the audiences who want to experience them remains unchanged.”
## Battleground: Jerusalem
### The Biblical Battle for the Holy City
[Enter](https://www.arabnews.com/node/2484561/battleground-jerusalem)
**Keywords:** Jerusalem, battle, biblical, Holy City
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