For three generations, the Educational Bookshop in Jerusalem has been a vital center of Palestinian culture that opens its doors to all. Last month, the Bookstore was raided by Israeli police. Two of its owners, Mahmoud and Ahmad Muna, were jailed. In court, the police offered only one specific act the Munas had committed: “Selling books.” The Munas were charged with disturbing the peace by selling “books containing content of incitement with nationalistic Palestinian characteristics.” The sole example given was a children's coloring book titled “From the River to the Sea.” 

The Munas’ arrest spurred global outrage. For many in the Extend community, this was a jarring event: the Munas have hosted hundreds of Extend participants in the Educational Bookstore, sharing their life stories, political analysis, and many wonderful books. 

Now released from prison, Ahmad Muna will speak to us about his detention, ongoing legal issues, the challenges faced by the Bookstore, and the broader Israeli state crackdown on Palestinian civil society. He will also share how each of us can act to support the Educational Bookshop.

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If you are unable to make the event, please consider donating to support the Educational Bookstore and sharing this event widely.