On November 4, 2007, the Lebanese Forces Students of Toronto proudly showed the film “Under the Skies of Lebanon” in Mississauga to a crowd of impressed and excited viewers from all over Toronto and the GTA. More than 150 people filled the Lecture Hall of John Cabot Catholic School. People began to arrive at 6:00 pm, and waited anxiously as copies of the movie were sold and refreshments were served to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome. The attendants sat with family, friends, and even people they had just met for the first time, and chatted about the movie and wondering aloud about what to expect amongst audio speeches of Sheikh Bachir Gemayel playing over the loudspeakers. The members of the Lebanese Forces Toronto Students as well as different chapter members worked relentlessly to secure a relaxed and fun atmosphere for all.
At about 6:30, a short speech was presented outlining what the movie was about and what it meant to the Lebanese youth movement. Finally, the movie started, and the room went silent. AS the movie wore on, different responses were heard from the large crowd. Before the movie had started, a member of the Toronto chapter who had already seen the movie stated that we should have put a box of tissues at each row. His idea was not very far fetched, as many were drawn to tears at some emotional parts of the movie. Some were taken back to the days in which they had fought in the very same battles outlined in the movie, and others who were too young to have fought were moved by the courageousness and sacrifice of the different martyrs they saw on the screen, both living and dead. The images of war and pain affected everyone watching the movie, but at the same time they were uplifted by the images and sounds of hope that chimed in near the end. As soon as the short tribute to Sheikh Bachir Gemayel appeared on the screen, loud applause filled the room, as well as during one of the many inspiring speeches of Dr. Samir Geagea. But the most resounding applause and cheering came at the end of the film, when the credits were met with a standing ovation from the crowd. In fact, as someone went to the front to address the crowd, they found it hard to speak over the resounding applause that filled the lecture hall.
Many of the audience members came up to the table where the films were being sold to congratulate and thank the students who were involved in making the viewing happen. Many commented on how essential a movie like this was, especially with the political uncertainty facing the nation. Many expressed joy in the fact that the students of the Lebanese Forces we driven to make such a movie, and how it affected both young and old so deeply. They bought many copies to give to their family and friends, and many commented on how well the film was made, and a few even said it had renewed their faith and outlook in the Lebanese cause. Everyone filed into the hallway outside the Lecture Hall and chatted over coffee about the movie and the various points it made. It was a very important part of the viewing that it would initiate conversation within the community, and this is exactly what it did. Different people talked about different topics with their neighbour, branching off into larger debates and conversations.
All in all, the Lebanese Forces Students of Toronto were very happy with the outcome of this kick-off event. Both the impact of the movie as well as the events’ ability to recruit new members to the group contributed to the overall success of the night. The students involved regard the night as being a great initiation into the community as well as a stepping stone in the creation of future events. This was the first event officially hosted by the LFST and it turned out to be one that will not soon be forgotten by all who attended.
Thanks to everyone in the Lebanese Forces Students Toronto who was involved, particularly: Sabine El-Chidiac, Dona Geagea, Michel Chaaya and Joe Moghaizel. Also, special thanks to the Lebanese Forces Toronto chapter on supporting and helping out in this event.
