Involvement of artists in the Mediterranean war

The war in the Gaza Strip has caused battles not only on the front line, but also in the circles of artists and intellectuals abroad. Some support Israel, others support the Palestinians. The idea of ​​war is being debated even in the art sector. Starting with discussions in academies, cancellations of award ceremonies in various European countries, and ending with protest demonstrations, boycott events in Berlin, Riga or Paris. The same is noticeable in Latvia: the left for the Palestinians, the right for Israel.

On March 3, there was an unusually long line outside a local cultural center in the suburbs of Paris. Philosopher, gender equality expert from the USA Judith Butler was invited to give a lecture (Pantin Relay). She had also agreed to participate in a panel discussion on anti-Semitism and the subject of Palestine. Therefore, there was no shortage of listeners. In general, this event should have taken place earlier – in December Electric Circus, in a theater partially financed by the city of Paris. However, it did not happen because one of the organizers was suddenly accused of anti-Semitism. The mayor of the city therefore declared the whole event a threat to “public order” and canceled the planned event.