The conflict between Israel and Palestine is at once very controversial and compelling. It is one of the most important issues in world politics and will most likely continue to play a critical role in the future of the world.
GC and UIUC had a wonderful opportunity to experience the human aspect of this conflict last night. Though some of the tactics used by the IPCT may have been upsetting, controversial, or even painful to hear, it is important to remember what their goal was. They wanted to portray Israeli-Palestinian relations from an individual point of view. We got to see humanity on the stage through their stand-up routines. What they expressed were their views as individuals; these views do not apply to all people and should not be used to generalize either view. What I thought of when I saw their routine was that it was conducted in the same manner as other stand-up comedy shows. It was crude at times, controversial at others, but it was meant to be funny, and most of the time it was. If instead of "Israeli-Palestinian" relations it had been "black-white" relations like Chris Rock focuses on, it would have been much less controversial. It is the sensitive nature of the IP issue that made it shocking.
The Israeli-Palestinian issue is undeniably very serious and grave. However, going along with the ideals of the IPCT, a lot can be learned through humor.
These are my impressions of what we saw last night. They are by no means the last word. I don't want them to be. So sound off, let everyone else hear your point of view. Because this is a serious and important issue and deserves serious discussion.
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