In al-Eizariya, a town in the occupied West Bank near Jerusalem, the Palestinian Manar and her husband Milad have founded a Waldorf school called House of Hope. An elementary school, based on the Waldorf educational philosophy, that embraces non-violent resistance, supporting children in healing from trauma. Manar tries to offer young Palestinian students a safe haven, but she’s finding it increasingly difficult.

In collaboration with a Palestinian crew, director Marjolein Busstra followed Manar and Milad at work as well as at home with their two children. The film crew kept returning over a period of three years. After 7 October 2023, tensions rise steadily inside and outside the home of the idealistic couple. The director’s photos, as well as phone recordings by Manar supplement their story.

Without security or dignity, life is suffocating, says Manar. She has spent her entire life under Israeli occupation, but the increasing violence and the accompanying stress are taking their toll. Yet the school remains open and the children sing about peace.