Anas “Andy” Shallal, artist, activist and owner of Busboys and Poets; composer, organist, vocalist Evelyn Simpson-Curenton; and ITVS Regional Outreach Coordinator Michon Boston after the screening of “The Calling” at Busboys and Poets.  Busboys and Poets hosted a pre-”The Calling” discussion as part of their monthly A.C.T.O.R. series (A Continuing Talk On Race).  Attendees focused on “callings” that are influenced or inspired by identity issues including religion, nationality, ethnicity, and race.

Andy Shallal and Evelyn Curenton shared their  stories and insights about “callings” as non-clergy.  However, even in their professions, they  share the same commitment and passion to make a better world through service as the persons featured in the film.

The parents of Yoni Brook (left), one of the directors for “The Calling,” joined the discussion at the Washington DC Jewish Community Center.  Guest speakers were Sarah Sayeed (center) co-founder and director of OneBlue.org (community partner), and Rabbi Gilah Langner (right).  As our guest speakers, Sarah and Rabbi Langner brought Muslim and Jewish perspectives to an engaging dialogue about “The Calling.” Rabbi Langner said in the Jewish tradition, it’s not a “calling”; for her it was “clarity.” Sarah’s call to create OneBlue.org was in response to the reactions from 9-11. OneBlue.org will be doing more workin the new year to address “Islamaphobia” in American society.

The Washington DCJCC Community Cinema Cafe events are always great sharing moments between the audience and guest speakers. Everyone gets involved. Community Cinema at the Washington DCJCC is set up in a smaller space which encourages engaging dialogue.