What it’s about:

The Israeli First Lady, Michal Herzog, hosted the premiere of “Screams Before Silence,” a documentary by Sheryl Sandberg, at the President’s Residence, highlighting the brutality and human rights violations carried out by Hamas starting on October 7, 2023. The event garnered support from Israeli officials, international diplomats, and advocacy groups.

Why it matters:

The documentary and Michal Herzog’s advocacy work shine an international spotlight on the heinous acts of violence, drawing much-needed attention to the victims and painting a stark picture of terrorism’s effects. This initiative forms part of a larger commitment by both Herzog and Sandberg to elevate the significant, yet often overlooked, reality of violence, aiming to instigate global action against inhumanity.

The Premiere:

Diplomats and influencers gathered in Jerusalem, gravitating towards the Herzog-led initiative to place atrocities carried out by Hamas into the global consciousness. Presentations from survivors, heart-stirring documentaries, and poignant discussions marked the event, not only honoring the victims but also igniting discussions on prevention and justice.

Broadening the Narrative:

The film premiere comes amidst growing acknowledgement of terrorism’s far-reaching threats, resonating deeply as audiences realize the global ramifications. Unlike some projects that shy from pointing fingers, “Screams Before Silence” boldly documents aggression without reservations – a critical step in advocacy and memory of the victims.

The Response:

The documentaries and Michal Herzog’s relentless effort have sparked international dialogue, breaking the silence on such issues. Traction gained from critical media coverage, including a New York Times interview featuring the horrifying experiences of a former hostage, Amit Soussana, aid in propelling the cause further into global discourse.

Michal Herzog’s Dedication:

In stark contrast to the world’s silence, Herzog’s endeavor, and her persistent confrontations with the horror of these acts, underscore the importance of standing against atrocities. Together with the heartfelt participation of survivors, her work renders a powerful voice to the voiceless, advocating for justice and recovery for all affected.

Conclusion:

As “Screams Before Silence” finds its audience worldwide, its impact extends beyond its initial showing, embodying a testament to the resilience of victims and the tenacity of those campaigning for peace and humanity. The Herzog-Sandberg mission is a beacon of advocacy, shedding indefinable light on the darkest corners of human rights violations.

This story was first published on jpost.com.