Revisiting the Dreyfus AffairWith Temple Sholom member, Sima Godfrey, Associate Professor Emerita of French, UBCThe Dreyfus affair which took place in France at the turn of the 20th century remains one of the most notable examples of a miscarriage of justice and of antisemitism. In 1894 Captain Alfred Dreyfus, a talented young Jewish officer serving on the General Staff of the French army, was accused of selling military secrets to the German embassy in Paris. Despite the lack of evidence and motive, Dreyfus was prosecuted, convicted, and sentenced to life imprisonment and sent to a penal colony on Devils Island where he endured harsh, inhumane conditions.

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When in 1896 the real culprit, a French army major, was identified by a French Intelligence officer, high-ranking military officials suppressed the new evidence, acquitted the culprit and laid additional charges against Dreyfus, based on forged documents.  As “The Affair” heated up, it divided France into Dreyfusards, who defended Dreyfus, and anti-Dreyfusards. The press played a crucial role in exposing information and in shaping public opinion in France and beyond. Journalists from around the world covered the increasingly riveting “cause célèbre” including a correspondent for the Viennese Neue Freie Presse by the name of Theodor Herzl.

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Anti-Semitism, virulent nationalism, and the fragility of democratic institutions and the rule of law were all on display in the Dreyfus affair. ‍In this presentation we will consider what the affair has to teach us today.  

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Lunch Catered by Nava Creative Kosher:

- Nava's Hummus with Tahina, Za'atar, Sumac, Marinated Chickpeas & Pita
- Blintzes With Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce and Sour Cream
- Roasted Vegetable Platter with Eggplant, Zucchini, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms and Onions

Assorted Pastries

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Cost: $18 Temple Sholom member, $28 Non-member

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