The evidence of Hamas using sexual violence as a weapon on Oct. 7 is both overwhelming and undeniable. While reading reports of these atrocities is distressing, hearing survivors and witnesses recount their experiences makes the horror even more real. Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta and founder of LeanIn.org, created the documentary “Screams Before Silence” to amplify those voices and to push back against the denial and justification of these acts by anti-Israel activists and antisemites.
In June, after a screening of the film for a bipartisan group of lawmakers at the U.S. Capitol, Sandberg told the JTA, “Some pretty mainstream people are either ignoring or, worse, denying this happened. This film brings to light the truth, showing people the terror these survivors faced and why understanding it is crucial.”
Now, St. Louis is set to become part of this critical conversation when the documentary screens at the United Hebrew Congregation on Sept. 23. Scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the congregation’s chapel, the event is a call to bear witness and take action against the atrocities of the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel.
A documentary of harrowing truths
Directed and produced by Sandberg, “Screams Before Silence” captures the raw, unfiltered experiences of survivors, first responders and witnesses to the brutal gender-based violence inflicted by Hamas terrorists. The documentary includes first-person testimonies, forensic analyses and expert commentaries, making it a comprehensive and heart-wrenching account of the events that unfolded on that tragic day. It shines a light on the systemic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war, exposing the horrific acts of rape, assault, and mutilation endured by women and hostages during the attacks.
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Understanding the role of sexual violence in conflict through ‘Screams Before Silence’
The documentary has already made waves across the country, with screenings on Capitol Hill and at the White House attended by influential lawmakers, activists, and even Vice President Kamala Harris. During these events, the film was praised for its portrayal of the violence and its role in countering denialism and misinformation about the Oct. 7 attacks.
“We cannot look away, and we will not be silent,” said Harris after the screening at the White House, emphasizing the importance of confronting these uncomfortable truths to prevent further atrocities.
Former President Donald Trump also voiced strong support for “Screams Before Silence.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged people to watch the film, describing it as “incredibly difficult to watch” due to its graphic portrayal of the “death and destruction that Hamas has unleashed.”
St. Louis screening of ‘Screams Before Silence’
The screening in St. Louis is open to the public, and the United Hebrew Congregation encourages attendance from all members of the community, regardless of background or faith. This event is an opportunity for St. Louis residents to unite in solidarity with survivors, to educate themselves on the realities of sexual violence in conflict, and to join a growing movement demanding global accountability and change.
Registration required
Please note that registration is required to attend the screening of “Screams Before Silence.” To secure your spot, please register here.
