Dr. Bassem Youssef and Filmmaker Sara Taksler to Visit SLAM!

Post date: Oct 09, 2017 2:27:33 PM

This is tentatively scheduled for this Friday at 2pm. You will have to leave your 5th period at 1:50pm to get to the AEC on time. Permission slips are available in Mr. Farley's class and Mr. Sheridan's.

For some, the only escape from the current state of politics is the world of comedy. Relief comes in the form of satire delivered nightly by masters of the craft like Stephen Colbert, Trevor Noah, or the cast of Saturday Night Live. For others around the world, free speech is under attack. Journalists, comedians, and artists are facing increasing criticism and in some cases, censorship. This screening of the new documentary Tickling Giants and a visit with guests Dr. Bassem Youssef and filmmaker Sara Taksler will aim to inspire students and show them that we must fight for the right of free speech and advocate for others who do not have the freedom to speak out.

TICKLING GIANTS tells the story of Dr. Bassem Youssef, the "Egyptian Jon Stewart". Following the Arab Spring and in need of a laugh, Bassem makes a decision that's every mother's worst nightmare... He leaves his job as a heart surgeon in Cairo to try his hand at comedy. Bassem starts "Al Bernameg", Egypt's first political satire show, and attracts 30 million viewers per episode (compared to "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart", which had two million people watching each episode). In a country where free expression is not settled law, Bassem's jokes prompt physical threats, protests, and legal action. Bassem finds creative, non-violent ways to protect free speech and fight a president who abuses his power.

Here's the movie trailer

Here's their challenge to SLAM students:

Tickle the giants in your own life! Find creative, non-violent ways to express yourself when power is abused. From a protest against a world leader to standing up to a bully in a school cafeteria. Inspire others and share your experiences with the hashtag #TicklingGiants