Rachel Corrie was 23 years old when she traveled from Olympia to the Gaza strip to fight for Palestinian rights. Tragically, she was killed when a bulldozer ran over her as she defended a Palestinian family home.
Since the fateful day 10 years ago, a struggle for human rights has been brought to the forefront in Olympia and beyond - the murals were erected and a community of Corrie supporters continues to grow, working to live her mission of peace and social justice.
In recognition of the 10th anniversary of Corrie's stand in Gaza, several events will be held this weekend throughout downtown Olympia.
Friday, Olympia Film Society presents a screening of Fida Qishta's Where Should the Birds Fly at 6:30 p.m. at the Capitol Theater. Qishta, a young Palestinian filmmaker born and raised in Gaza, examines the effects of the 22-day Israeli military operation in the Gaza Strip in 2008-09 that killed more than 1,400 Palestinians, the vast majority civilians. After the screening, an audience discussion will be held with Qishta and Sonja Wentz, Rachel Corrie Foundation board member.
Saturday brings more events and discussions, complete with dancers, speakers, food and family.
The Saturday schedule is as follows:
1 p.m., Sylvester Park, 615 Washington St. SE: "Ten Years is Enough!" rally challenging U.S. aid to Israel and the lack of accountability for how those resources are used.
2:30 to 9 p.m., Olympia Ballroom, 116 Legion Way SE: Community celebration featuring music and dance by Batiste Dabke, House of Tarab, David Rovics and others, remembrances from Rachel's parents - Cindy and Craig Corrie - and others, keynote address from Phyllis Bennis and Ramzy Baroud and a community potluck from 5-7 p.m.
Interactive displays, a visual feast reflecting Corrie, will also be part of the community celebration inside the Olympia Ballroom.
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