World Premiere of Film on U.S. Diplomat's Efforts to Rescue Jews from Holocaust

"A Voice Among the Silent: The Legacy of James G. McDonald," a new documentary by Shuli Eshel about James G. McDonald, a U.S. diplomat who helped rescue Jewish refugees from the Nazis, will have its world premiere in New York with two showings on October 19th and 20th, 2014.

First, the NYC (and world) film premiere will be held on Sunday October 19, 2014, at Park East Synagogue, 164 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10065. A pre-screening reception will begin at 6:00 PM and screening of the film will start at 7:00 PM.

Then, the Long Island premiere will happen on Monday October 20, 2014 as a Pre-Gold Coast International Film Festival Screening at Bow Tie Cinemas in Great Neck, 115 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck NY. Doors open at 7:00 PM and screening of the film starts at 7:30 PM.

In both events, the film will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr. Barbara McDonald Stewart (McDonald's daughter); historian Dr. Rafael Medoff; and filmmaker Shuli Eshel.

After a face-to-face meeting with Hitler in 1933, McDonald was one of the first to warn world leaders, including President Franklin Roosevelt and the future Pope Pius XII, about Hitler's threat to "get rid of the Jews." As the League of Nations' High Commissioner for Refugees and then as chairman of President Roosevelt's Advisory Committee on Political Refugees, McDonald worked tirelessly to find safe havens for Jews fleeing Nazi Germany.

Later, as America's first ambassador to Israel, McDonald helped build the foundation for American-Israeli friendship.

The incredible story of McDonald's efforts and foresight were almost lost to history until his meticulously kept diaries were discovered in 2003. McDonald spoke up when others were silent. McDonald's bravery is a role model for human decency and courage that is as relevant today as it was 80 years ago.

Admission for the reception, film and post film discussion is $20 per person.

Tickets go on sale on September 8 at www.parkeastsynagogue.org

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