Sending letters to Lori Starr and Mona Filip at the Koffler is a great way to show your support:

lstarr@kofflerarts.org
mfilip@kofflerarts.org

Sample Letter:

“Dear Ms. Starr, Ms. Filip:

I am shocked that the Koffler Center for the Arts has decided at the 11th hour to dissociate with Reena Katz’s commissioned project: each hand as they are called, curated by Kim Simon.  Considering her ambitious work has over 70 local participants and has been in production for over a year, it is very peculiar that you have made such a brash decision without any consultation with the artist or curator so late in the project’s development.

Your statements regarding Katz’s activism for Palestinian human rights are incorrect and misinformed.  Her critique of Zionism and the actions of the State of Israel are not only justified, she has a right to free association and any political leaning she chooses.  Dissent and dialogue are critical tools of cultural work, and as your website states, they strengthen “identity and community while fostering an appreciation of difference.”

Severing connections from the artist (even if you continue financial support) not because of any shortcomings with the project, but simply because of her political principles, sets a frightening precedent. It undermines the Koffler’s credibility as a site for contemporary art and culture, and disregards the mandates of its arts council funders.

I ask you to reconsider this rash and misguided action and grant Katz the meeting she’s requested with the Board of Directors as soon as possible.

Sincerely,
Name and organizational affiliation”