In recognition of the U.N.’s World Refugee Day, Venice Arts and Women’s Voices Now will co-present Syria’s Courageous Women, a free film screening and community discussion. The event is part of the monthly screening series Women’s Voices on Screen.
The evening will include a screening of the Syrian film “The Light in Her Eyes,” directed by Julia Meltzer and Laura Nix. The film focuses on the story of Houda al-Habash, a conservative Muslim preacher who founded a Qur’an school for girls 30 years ago. Filmed right before the uprising in Syrian began, “The Light in Her Eyes” offers an extraordinary portrait of a leader who challenges the women of her community to live according to Islam, without giving up their dreams.
The screening will be followed by a community discussion to further understand and contextualize the crisis in Syria, featuring the Karam Foundation’s Nada Hasem, artist Fadia Afashe, and actor Jay Abdo. Reception will begin at 7:30pm with coffee provided by Groundwork Coffee Co. and other refreshments. Screening begins at 8pm.
