About the film

Sumud (Arabic: صمود) meaning steadfastness or steadfast perseverance.

As increasing numbers of journalists in Gaza are killed by Israeli forces, Gazan health care workers and international medical volunteers serve as vital reporters bearing witness to the ongoing genocide. The film follows Dr. Travis Meleen, an American anesthesiologist volunteering in Gaza as he works with Palestinian surgical teams that continue training at Nasser Hospital even as the medical center is under siege.  The film includes commentary from Omar El Akkad, an Egyptian-Canadian journalist and writer reporting on the genocide. He is the author of One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. The 26 minute film is followed by a recorded panel discussion and audience Q and A with Dr. Meleen, El Akkad and Director Jan Haaken. The panel was filmed at the theatrical premiere of SUMUD in Portland Oregon. Total program running time is 66 minutes.