PHILADELPHIA, PA — On October 19, 2023, the Suzanne Roberts Theatre in Philadelphia hosted the first local screening of “Repairing the World: Stories from the Tree of Life“. This documentary chronicles Pittsburgh’s community response to the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.
The film provides a powerful display of unity and resilience in the face of hate through the voices of survivors, family members, diverse Pittsburgh residents, and leaders. The event took place almost five years after the tragic attack, marking its fifth anniversary.
A panel discussion followed the screening, led by Jennifer Lynn, host and producer of WHYY’s “Morning Edition”. Panelists included Patrice O’Neill, the film’s producer and director, Alan Mallinger, a survivor of the shooting, and Maggie Feinstein, director of the 10.27 Healing Partnership. Eric G. Olshan, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and members of the trial team that prosecuted the shooter also attended and shared remarks.
The screening was part of the Department of Justice’s United Against Hate Initiative, hosted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in partnership with WHYY and Not In Our Town. Several organizations, including the American Jewish Committee, the Anti-Defamation League, the Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia, HIAS Pennsylvania, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, and the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, cosponsored the event.
“Hate-based violence and threats hurt not just the victims; they destroy entire communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero. She emphasized the commitment to prosecuting these crimes and working with partners to prevent them.
U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan, who joined his colleagues from the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for the viewing, praised the strength and resolve of the victim community. He affirmed continued solidarity and the belief that together we are stronger than hate.
Patrice O’Neill, the film’s director and Not In Our Town CEO, expressed honor in presenting the film to the Philadelphia community. She shared hopes that Pittsburgh’s story would spark discussions and inspire action against hate, both locally and nationwide.
WHYY will broadcast the film on October 26, 2023, at 9:00 p.m., with a repeat screening on October 29, 2023, at 12:30 p.m.
“Repairing the World: Stories from the Tree of Life” documents Pittsburgh’s response to hate and antisemitism following the 2018 attack at the Tree of Life synagogue that killed eleven people. The film explores hate speech, gun violence, and the spread of hate online. It reveals signs of hope, ways to bridge deep divisions, build resilience, and shows a determined community addressing deep challenges.
O’Neill emphasized the power of local communities in stopping the spread of hate. She believes that mobilizing against hate speech and violence can make a significant difference. The fear and insecurity caused by hate violence have a devastating effect on communities, influencing decisions about where to live, work, or participate in community and civic life.
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