The Panama Deception

Film evenings begin with optional potluck refreshments and social hour at 6:30 pm,
followed by the film at 7:30 pm, followed by a discussion after the film.

THE PANAMA DECEPTION
by Barbara Trent

Years before the U.S. went after Saddam Hussein, the White House had Manuel Noriega, another former ally, in its sights. This riveting film documents the untold story of the December 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama; the events which led to it; the excessive force used; the enormity of the death and destruction; and the devastating aftermath. It contrasts U.S. media coverage of the invasion with the expert testimony shown in the film. It uncovers the real reasons for this internationally condemned attack, presenting a view of the invasion which widely differs from that portrayed by the U.S. media. It exposes how the U.S. government and the mainstream media suppressed information about this foreign policy disaster.

The filmmakers also backtrack to America’s turn-of-the-century takeover of the Panama Canal –- and volatile aftermath -– before flashing forward to the reform-minded Carter era. When CIA-supported Manuel Noriega comes to power, reform gives way to repression, and President Reagan calls for the dictator’s ouster. His successor, President Bush Sr., brings in the troops. It would be one thing if the U.S. only targeted military facilities, but citizen witnesses claim soldiers also fired on civilians and residential property (a Pentagon spokesman denies this accusation). Depending on the source, casualties ranged from 250 to 4,000. This film, though depicting an invasion from the last century, shows the depths of U.S. depravity abroad and the depths of U.S. lies to cover it up. Depravity and lies, of course, are still keeping pace in other arenas today.

Wheelchair accessible around the corner at 411 28th Street

$5 donations are accepted