Karama Beirut: A Cinematic Solidarity Window by Karama Jordan

The Karama Beirut festival, launched in 2016 by Association “691” in partnership with various organizations, has become a vital platform for addressing human rights issues in Lebanon and the region. Over the years, the festival has explored diverse themes, starting with its first edition titled “The Others”, followed by “New Identities” in 2017, and “Free the Word” in 2018, showcasing a wide range of Arab and international films.

The festival continued its journey with the fourth edition in 2019 titled “Talk to Her”, addressing issues of displacement, poverty, war, and women’s rights. The fifth edition in 2021 came under the theme “Occupy the Void”, followed by the sixth edition in 2022, “The First Gate”. The seventh edition in 2023, held at Sunflower Theatre amidst intense political unrest, carried the theme “Hold Together”, calling for unity among the Lebanese people, artists, and filmmakers.

Postponement of the 8th Edition in 2024

Due to the recent escalation and war that swept across Lebanon from the south to the north, the eighth edition, scheduled for October 2024 under the theme “Remember: On Memory and Human Rights”, was unfortunately postponed. However, in a spirit of solidarity, Karama Jordan launched a special window titled “One Karama” to showcase selected Lebanese films, ensuring the festival’s message of resilience and human rights continues to thrive.

Films Presented in the Karama Beirut Window:

  1. “In the Shadow of Beirut” (Feature Documentary, 92 min) – Directed by Stephen Kelly & Garry Keane.
    Watch the film here

  2. “We Never Left” (Feature Documentary) – Directed by Loulwa Khoury, exploring themes of longing, exile, and belonging, with the director and editor Mary-Louise Elia in attendance.
    Watch the film here

  3. “Out of Battle” (Short Narrative) – Directed by Jaafar Al-Asal, depicting journalists and vibrant borders between Lebanon and Palestine.
    Watch the film here

  4. “Deaf” (Short Narrative) – Directed by Roy Arida, focusing on a deserted village, coffin wood, and silent wishes.

The Festival’s Message

Despite the challenges, Karama Beirut continues to affirm its commitment to delivering its artistic and human rights message. With the support of partners in the ANHAR Network and solidarity initiatives like the Karama Jordan window, the festival remains a testament to the power of cinema in defending human rights.