Jewish-American filmmaker Sarah Friedland used her acceptance speech at the Venice International Film Festival on Saturday to highlight the “genocide in Gaza”, adding that she supports the liberation of Palestine.
Friedland’s debut film ‘Familiar Touch’ won awards for Best Director, Best First Film and Best Actress at 81st film festival.
Taking to the stage to accept her awards, Friedland said: “As a Jewish American artist working in a time-based medium, I must note, I’m accepting this award on the 336th day of Israel’s genocide in Gaza and 76th year of occupation.”.
“I believe it is our responsibility as filmmakers to use the institutional platforms through which we work to redress Israel’s impunity on the global stage. I stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and their struggle for liberation.”
Her speech was welcomed with applause from across the hall.
Palestinian film ‘Happy Holidays’, directed by Scandar Copti, won the awards for Best Screenplay.
The film presents “four interconnected characters who share their unique realities, highlighting the complexities between genders, generations, and cultures.”
Born in Jaffa in historic Palestine, Copti’s films examine the social problems of Arab-Palestinian society in Israel.
READ: Top Israeli rabbi blesses soldier accused of Gaza rape
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