What do You Think?

2/2/2013

Should We Mix Politics with Art? Or Keep Them Separated?

Read this article, Arab dancers' participation in Israeli festival draws fire from some from "Ahram Online" and share what you think. It's a touchy subject for sure....Please share your thoughts below in the comments section.

2 Comments

Nivasi link

2/5/2013 08:18:08 am

Such a tricky issue, and one that I've thought about because so many great dancers teach and perform at Eilat, and because I have an MA in Middle Eastern studies and an interest in the region's politics and history. I have the impression that Orit Maftsir, the festival organizer, is for peace, though it's not clear to what extent she approves or disapproves of the Israeli government's actions. In general, as an Israeli who clearly supports Arab culture, I think she should be supported and congratulated for her work to build cultural bridges between two opposing sides.

On the other hand, among those who support Palestinian freedom and condemn the actions of the Israeli government, there is a strong movement to boycott Israeli businesses, institutions, events, etc. Not necessarily in order to punish individual citizens or the Israeli people for the actions of the government, but to try to weaken the economy and reduce the amount of money available for settlements, blockades and military occupation, and to make sure that their money isn't eventually going to things they disapprove of.

I can see the point of the boycott campaign, and I can see how people who strongly oppose Israel would be opposed to spending money there, even for something that celebrates Arab culture. But I don't think it's fair to judge others for the choice they make, especially not as harshly as the dancer quoted in the article. You may choose not to teach at or attend the festival because you don't want to spend any money in Israel, but those who choose differently may not be anti-Palestinian. They may just want peace, or they may see the support of Arab culture in Israel as more important than the boycott, or a better way to peace.

Sa'diyya

2/26/2013 05:32:35 am

Thank you for your insightful response, Nivasi.

Services

Hire a Dancer
Learn to Belly Dance
Sponsor a Workshop
Attend an Event
Buy a DVD
Study Belly Dance Online

About

Biography
Awards
Testimonials
Photos
Videos
Contact

Buy Sa'diyya's New Video!

"Sa'diyya is one of the top belly dance artists in Texas. I have always admired her artistic expression. I think she is extremely talented technically as well as emotionally. I always look forward to seeing her perform!"

-Jillina,
International Bellydance Superstar

Sa'diyya's Blog

Newsletter!

Photo from foreverseptember