Statement On arnolfini withdrawing from the palestinian film festival

In light of Arnolfini's decision to withdraw from hosting events for the Bristol Palestine Film Festival we wanted to state explicitly and publicly that we disagree with this decision given our status as Creators in Residence there.

“Art is not neutral. It either upholds or disrupts the status quo, advancing or regressing justice. We are living now inside the imagination of people who thought economic disparity & environmental destruction were acceptable costs for their power. It is our right and responsibility to write ourselves into the future.”

― adrienne maree brown

We are against censorship of any kind.

We feel like this decision from Arnolfini goes against our efforts to create safer spaces in the creative industries and encourage expression in all its forms.

We want our community and our partners to know we do not agree with their justification of why this decision has been made and we will be taking some time to reflect on our continued status as Creators in Residence.

This is an ongoing conversation and we’re here for discussion, push back and to be held accountable by the people we work with, love and support.

Love and Rage,

Rising Arts Agency