Arabic version: توثيق يروي حياة الأسير الفلسطيني وليد دقة

The documentary ‘Walid Daqqa: A Parallel Life’ sheds light on the extraordinary story of Walid Daqqa, one of the longest-serving Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. This film presents a unique perspective through the voices of his family and recordings he made during his incarceration.

According to Al Jazeera, Daqqa’s journey began as a sharp-minded boy in 1948 Palestine, evolving into a clandestine organizer for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). His life sentence did not deter him; instead, he transformed his prison cell into a space for learning, creativity, and even love. He famously married Sanaa Salama inside Ashkelon prison.

The film delves into Daqqa’s concept of “parallel time,” portraying his ability to live both within the prison walls and in the world beyond. It highlights significant moments, such as the smuggling of his sperm, which led to the birth of his daughter, Milad. His poignant message to her emphasizes the importance of hating oppression rather than people.

As cancer consumes him and Israel refuses his release, the film captures the enduring struggle for freedom. Milad’s rallying cry, “Freedom for our prisoners. For my father,” resonates deeply, symbolizing a legacy that transcends Walid Daqqa’s life and reflects a broader fight for justice.