Dear Friends of Lost & Found,
In a gesture of solidarity with friends and colleagues in Beirut, we would like to pass on news from the Arab Image Foundation, a great archival project that has been a kindred spirit and institution to Lost & Found. Thankfully, only one staff member was hurt, but is recovering.
Given the extent of the loss of lives and humanitarian needs resulting from the catastrophic explosions of August 4th, it might seem frivolous to consider donating to a cultural institution. We would like to emphasize, however, in the strongest possible terms: as a society, we are only as strong as our most vibrant culture, and the institutions embodying the vibrancy of that culture.
The Arab Image Foundation has been at the forefront of a cultural efflorescence in Beirut, and of expressions of civil society now demanding immediate and significant change. In these trying times, we wanted you to be aware of their work and their present circumstances.
With heartfelt thanks from all of us at Lost & Found,
Ammiel Alcalay
General Editor
Beirut Port Explosion, Damage Assessment, and Solidarity Fund
Dear friends and colleagues,
As you know, this has been a catastrophic week for Beirut and Lebanon. A tragic week that follows an overwhelming year in the country. Our heartfelt thoughts are with the families and friends of the deceased, missing, and injured in the 4th of August explosions at the port of Beirut.
The explosions at the port were neither inevitable nor accidental. They are the result of longstanding government negligence, and a failed political system that has plunged the country into complete paralysis.
Situated at 800m from the site of the explosions, the Arab Image Foundation’s fourth-floor premises on Gouraud Street in the Gemmayzeh area sustained substantial damage.
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