Identity without Supremacy
http://www.gilad.co.uk/writings/dr-june-c-terpstra-identity-without-supremacy.html
I also met Munir Muhammad at Nation of Islam’s TV and participated in his show, after which I felt that there is potentially a lot of groundwork that could to be done together with The Nation of Islam.
http://www.gilad.co.uk/writings/gilad-atzmon-munir-muhammad-tv-show-chicago.html
Video streaming by Ustream
In Dallas I took part in a One Democratic State (ODS) panel at The University of Texas together with Dr. Samir Abed Rabbo and Remi Kanazi. I also met very many young Palestinians. I watched a poetry event performed by Remi and a few of the young female Palestinian students. Never in my life have I encountered such a level of determination and conviction. I am planning to increase my work with Dr. Abed Rabbo and the ODS. The event was documented, and I will link to the footage and write more about it, as soon it is available on-line.
While in Berkley I met Rabbi Michael Lerner and a few members of his liberal congregation. We spent more than three hours together. I presented my thoughts and ideas and answered many questions. This gathering reaffirmed my belief that any form of meaningful shift within the Jewish discourse will be achieved through a spiritual transformation. To a certain extent, it was easier to communicate with the Rabbi and his friends, because, for the Rabbi -- unlike in the case of Jewish secular left -- Jewishness is a coherent, spiritual notion. It is inherently linked with Judaism. Instead of another manifestation of identity politics, it is actually lived, experienced and expressed as a religion.
To watch footage from the Rabbi’s house
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdXuUzAfU28
In Oakland, I participated in a benefit for the US Boat to Gaza at the Lake Merritt United Methodist Church. I gave a talk that was followed by a Q&A and a recital with my longtime friend, pianist Daniel Raynaud. Just before the meeting took place I had a chance to debate four Zionist picketers who were sent by the Israeli Consulate. They were indeed misinformed: they didn’t know exactly why they were there. They didn’t know who I was and what I stood for. The debate was documented and hopefully will be on-line soon.
Since the meeting took place late afternoon (4.30 pm), certainly too early for many working people, we continued to a nearby private house to resume the discussion for another two hours.
In Oklahoma, I gave my 'Primacy of the Ear' talk. I went over the story of my life. I tried to throw light on the culture that led to Israeli inherent blindness towards other people’s pain. We continued with a Q&A and then continued with a little musical jam. In the night I discussed with Dr Abed Rabbo and Jeff Salamat, the organiser, some new strategies to spread the message.
I also returned to Denver for the fourth time. This time I had a chance to talk to a few academics and some senior politicians about AIPAC and the Zionist grip over American politics. I also gave a talk at the legendary Denver’s Mercury Café that evolved into a musical gathering with Denver’s leading Jazz players. I love being in Denver and feel very welcome there.
After the event, I heard some familiar beats echoing out from another room within the Mercury complex. I followed the sound and found myself in a belly dancing party. This event reminded me of what America is all about. I was pretty much knocked down by the virtuosity performed by the young ladies.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kknY2nFNX_A
Those women are performing that Arabian art at the time American soldiers are stationed in Iraq. I thought to myself that in spite of AIPAC influence, the Zionist control of Media and entertainment, I wouldn’t imagine these young beautiful girls dancing Israeli Hora or bopping to the sound of Kletzmer.
In Denver I also participated in the Nakba Day demo. I played Louis Armstrong's ‘What a Wonderful Day’ because I know that in spite of Netanyahu, Barak, Peres, AIPAC and the ADL, it will be a wonderful world.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KPBw6W4DkI
Then, just before jumping onto the plane I traveled to Aspen. I met many friends and took part in a radio show. then I slept for three hours and flew back home.
My visit was supported by Texas ODS, UStoGAZAWest, Evelyn Hecht Galinski and Benjamin Hecht, LEARN- Liberation Education Action Research Network, SPP with Support from Jeff Salamat and Argus Fest.
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