WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a screening of the documentary “Screams Before Silence” at the White House to address and refute denialism of Hamas’ sexual violence. The film, produced by Sheryl Sandberg, shines a light on the atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists, including the sexual assault of hostages.
Harris emphasized the importance of not turning a blind eye to such heinous acts, stating, “We cannot look away and we will not be silent.” The screening was attended by representatives of women’s and human rights groups, who gathered to show support for the survivors and their families affected by the violence in Israel and Gaza.
Sheryl Sandberg, known for her role as the former COO of Meta, produced the documentary to counter the denialism surrounding the sexual violence inflicted by Hamas. In an interview with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, Sandberg expressed her concern over the lack of acknowledgment of these crimes and stressed the need for awareness and condemnation.
The documentary and Sandberg’s public condemnation of rape as a war crime have been instrumental in raising awareness about the use of sexual violence by Hamas. Jewish advocates have been pushing for recognition of these crimes, leading to the United Nations condemning Hamas’ actions in March.
During the event, Amit Soussana, a former hostage and sexual assault survivor, shared her harrowing experience and emphasized the need for justice and accountability. She highlighted the trauma of being in captivity and the importance of speaking out against such atrocities.
Harris and Sandberg called for an end to the conflict and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. They urged for a ceasefire deal to be accepted to bring the hostages home and ultimately put an end to the hostilities.
The event was part of Harris’s initiative to raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence, with a panel discussion featuring experts on the subject, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad.