Lunch and Learn with a film and speaker. 

Routes of Exile: A Moroccan Jewish Odyssey

This compelling look at the remnant of the Jewish community left in Morocco provides a new perspective on the current crisis of Jews in a modern Arab state and in the  Middle East. Shot on location in four countries, the film vividly portrays the ongoing odyssey of a 2,000 year old community whose remarkable journey is still unfolding.

Can Jews and Arabs live together peacefully in the Middle East? Can Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jews live together peacefully in Israel? “Routes of Exile” dynamically explores these controversial topics as it carefully reconstructs the story of the Moroccan Jews—of their journey from the remoteness of antiquity to the tragic turbulence of today’s Middle East.

Combining rare archival footage, interviews with people from all walks of life, exotic celebrations, lively music and special effects, the film explores the ancient origins of the Jews of Morocco-their fascinating Berber roots, illustrious Spanish heritage and long co-existence with Arabs in a Moslem country. Routes of Exile examines the impact of colonialism on Arab-Jewish relations and follows the Moroccan exodus to Europe, the New World and Israel where Jews of Moroccan origin have waged a fierce struggle for equality in Israeli society.

Admission: $12.50 per person
Includes lunch