A portrait of an Israeli human rights lawyer who defends Palestinian offenders
March 18-21— WOODSTOCK—Billings Farm & Museum’s 11th annual Woodstock Vermont Film Series features the award-winning documentary, “Advocate,” an examination of the life and work of Jewish-Israeli lawyer Lea Tsemel who has steadfastly represented Palestinians against all types of criminal charges for nearly 50 years.
From feminists to fundamentalists, from nonviolent demonstrators to armed militants, Lea Tsemel defends her clients. As a Jewish-Israeli lawyer who has represented political prisoners for five decades, Tsemel, in her tireless quest for justice, pushes the role of a human rights defender to its limits. As far as most Israelis are concerned, she defends the indefensible. As far as Palestinians are concerned, she’s more than an attorney, she’s an advocate. “Advocate” follows Tsemel’s caseload in real-time, including the high-profile trial of a 13-year-old boy — her youngest client to date. The film also revisits her landmark cases and reflects on the political and professional significance of her work, while revealing the personal price one pays for assuming the role like hers.
The Woodstock Vermont Film Series is produced by Billings Farm & Museum with generous support from local sponsors. Lead sponsors include the Woodstock Inn & Resort and the Ellaway Group. For a full list of films, to learn how to view the films and purchase tickets, go to billingsfarm.org/filmseries or call 802-457-5303.
The Billings Farm & Museum is owned and operated by The Woodstock Foundation Inc., a charitable non-profit institution. Billings Farm & Museum is committed to providing educational opportunities and experiences to visitors, whether here in Woodstock or at home wherever you are through online resources at Billings Farm at Home. Visit us at billingsfarm.org, and find them on Facebook at facebook.com/BillingsFarmMuseum/ and Instagram at instagram.com/billingsfarm.
