The Village of Peace 2014
Distributed by Ruth Diskin Films Ltd., P.O.Box 7153, Jerusalem, 91071, ISRAEL
Produced by Ben Schuder, Sam Schuder, Niko Philipides.
Directed by Ben Schuder and Niko Philipides
DVD, color, 64 min.
Middle School - General Adult
Civil Rights, Religion, Israel, African Americans
Date Entered: 11/16/2016
Reviewed by Malcolm L. Rigsby, Department of Sociology, Human Services, & Criminal Justice, Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, ArkansasVillage of Peace resonates the meaning of being at peace of mind!
~ Malcolm L. Rigsby
The film is one of returning to roots, heritage and history. The directors bring us an intimate look into the lives of people some of which were born in the U.S.A. prior to 1967 and others born in Israel post 1967. The commonality is the shared peace that comes from knowing one’s self, community and belonging in the world. In 1967, 300 African Americans that were seeking identity and community came together and took a monumental step to return to their heritage in the state of Israel. Their championing cause was their belief in being the descendants of the Biblical Israelites and they returned home to claim dignity and belonging.
The first part of the film offers a review of the American Civil Rights movement of the early 1960s. Within this historic backdrop we see the African American society seeking identity through community. They find the answer in the state of Israel. In this new homeland identity is found a united belief in polygamy, vegetarian life and scriptural ancient texts. Today the community consists of some 5000 members that serve in the Israeli Defense Forces and otherwise support the state of Israel.
The film provides many opportunities for group analysis and discussion. Students of religion as well as others interested in identity and social justice will find the documentary stimulating. People interested in social movement whether arising in politics, sociology or psychology will find this an intriguing film. The film’s website provides a trailer. Several means for viewing the film are available including purchase of a DVD through Ruth Diskin Films as well as live viewing using a PayPal account.