STORIES OF RESILIENCE, Solidarity & HOPE |
Welcome to Our Podcast. We're glad you're here!
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Everyone has a story. The Qissah is a place to delve into these diverse stories of identity, solidarity, resistance, justice, etc. Stories provide a potent means of expression and demonstrate the courage and resilience required to navigate pressing issues. Each episode features influential activists and scholars who share unique perspectives and narratives on racial justice, human rights, and Indigenous Peoples’ issues. By sharing stories, we become formidable agents of change, empowering others to use their own voices to advocate for the issues that matter. Through this podcast, we are devoted to changing the narrative and taking action together.
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Watch on YOUTUBE
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tell yours!Our stories showcase the diversity, vibrancy, resilience, solidarity, hope & power of connections & we invite you
to be part of this narrative! |
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CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO CLIPS OF EACH STORY ON TIKTOK AND INSTAGRAM
Part I
Part II
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EPISODE 26What can history teach us about the complexities of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict? In this episode, we speak with Ilan Pappé, a leading Israeli historian and professor at the University of Exeter, renowned for his bold, research-driven critiques of mainstream narratives. The author of 24 books—including The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine. In this in-depth interview Prof. Pappé reflects on his academic journey and shares some of the findings about the events of 1948, challenging enduring myths about the Nakba, unpacking overlooked historical dynamics, and offering deeper context for understanding October 7. He also examines the foundations of Zionism as a settler-colonial project and explains why he believes we may be witnessing the beginning of the end of the Zionist project as it has traditionally been understood. The conversation explores his vision for a democratic one-state solution, the expanding global movement for Palestinian liberation, and the broader implications of shifting public opinion worldwide—including the latest proposals for a Gaza peace plan. We also discuss his new book, Israel on the Brink: The Eight Revolutions That Could Lead to Decolonization and Coexistence.
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EPISODE 25In this episode, we speak with activist Sunita Viswanath, who co-founded ‘Hindus for Human Rights’ to confront Hindutva, the caste system, and other forms of oppression in both the US and India. She discusses how her Hindu faith shapes her lifelong commitment to justice, pluralism, and human rights. Broadly, what Sunita offers is not the false comfort of unguarded optimism but something more necessary: clarity about what the moment demands. She takes fierce moral stands while refusing to demonize and speaking bravely about Gaza and Kashmir in spaces designed to silence such speech.
Sunita’s advocacy spans decades, from co-founding ‘Women for Afghan Women’ to being recognized by President Obama in 2015 as a “Champion of Change.” Her work sits at the intersection of faith, feminism, and liberation. |
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EPISODE 24In this episode, we’re joined by Huwaida Arraf, a Palestinian-American human rights attorney and co-founder of Freedom Flotilla from Michigan, who has organised to break Israel’s illegal naval blockade on Gaza since 2008. Having participated in the two most recent Freedom Flotilla “Handala and Conscious” voyages, she shares what drives her to continue these missions, offering powerful firsthand accounts of her experiences, her time in Israeli detention, and her reflections on the ongoing situation in Gaza. Huwaida stresses the importance of solidarity, resilience, and resistance in the face of the continuing siege and oppression.
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EPISODE 23Our latest podcast features Sahar Aziz, a distinguished Professor of Law, Chancellor's Social Justice Scholar, and author of "The Racial Muslim: When Racism Quashes Religious Freedom," whose voice carries the weight of someone who has spent decades watching the slow erosion of principles she once believed were bedrock American values. Sahar knows a lot about being caught between worlds. As an American Muslim, she experienced what she calls a "double injury" after September 11th — traumatized like any American by the attacks, yet blamed by association for them. That experience set her on a path that would make her one of the country's leading experts on how national security policies reshape civil liberties, particularly for Muslim, Arab, and South Asian communities.
Prof. Sahar discussed the historical roots of Orientalism and Islamophobia, explaining how these concepts have shaped Western perceptions of Muslims and influenced the Palestine-Israel conflict. She also shared her insights on the current political climate and the historical context of immigration policies. |
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EPISODE 22 - PART IIThis is part two of our conversation with Prof Daniel Segal and Malkah Bird, leaders from the Indiana chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace—the world’s largest Jewish organization advocating for Palestinian liberation. Their stories are part of a burgeoning movement—one that refuses to equate Jewish identity with support for a militarized ethnostate and instead embraces a vision of justice rooted in collective liberation. If you haven’t yet listened to Part 1, we encourage you to start there — as it provides essential insights into the work of Jewish Voice for Peace and the important perspectives we will be building upon today. In this second part, we will delve deeper into the broader context by exploring the increasing public support for Palestine, the dynamics of imperialism, and the interconnected struggles while holding space for both hope and collective actions. Let’s continue the conversation.
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EPISODE 22 - PART IIn this podcast interview, we were joined by Prof. Daniel Segal and Malkah Bird, leaders from the Indiana chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace. Their stories are part of a burgeoning movement—one that refuses to equate Jewish identity with support for a militarized ethnostate, and instead embraces a vision of justice rooted in collective liberation. Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), the world’s largest Jewish organization, is at the heart of that shift. With tens of thousands of members and chapters across the country, JVP is mobilizing Jews and allies to confront U.S. complicity in Israeli apartheid and build a “Judaism beyond Zionism”—one that stands in active solidarity with Palestinians and all oppressed people.
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EPISODE 21In this episode of the Qissah podcast, we sit down with an outstanding award-winning sociologist and author, Bianca Mabute-Louie, who leads us through an unforgettable conversation on the intersection of race and politics and delves into the deeper interconnected issues surrounding them. Bianca is dedicated to the praxis of solidarity and collective liberation, both in her academic work and within the community. She is the author of Unassimilable: An Asian Diasporic Manifesto for the Twenty-First Century, which offers a radical vision of Asian American political identity informed by a refusal of Whiteness and collective care for each other.
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EPISODE 20When we talk about Kashmir, we often hear about territorial disputes, geopolitical tensions, and occasional flare-ups between nuclear-armed neighbors.
What gets lost in these discussions is a fundamental reality that scholar Ather Zia emphasizes repeatedly: Kashmir is home to 8 million people whose voices have been systematically silenced. "We're not talking about a sweater, we're not talking about wool, we're not talking about a region that's a territory between India and Pakistan," she says. "We're actually talking about a region that has been a swath of a region in itself and of itself historically." Kashmir's story is one of strength and resilience, yet it remains one of the world's most overlooked and ignored stories. It deserves to be heard. We are honored to speak with Dr. Ather Zia, who brings remarkable credentials to this conversation, a Kashmiri scholar and associate professor in the Department of Anthropology and Gender Studies at the University of Northern Colorado. |
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EPISODE 19What would it take to challenge the values that shaped your identity? For Miko Peled, a former Zionist raised by key figures in Israel’s establishment as a state, it meant facing uncomfortable truths and breaking societal norms. Miko’s remarkable transformation as a global human rights advocate offers a glimpse into the necessary work that allows one to challenge ingrained beliefs to fight for justice. Miko is a renowned author, speaker, and human rights activist born and raised in Israel. His book, "The General's Son: Journey of an Israeli in Palestine," details his family's history in Palestine and his personal evolution into a defender of Palestinian rights.
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EPISODE 18As a psychologist, antiracism educator, and advocate for marginalized communities, Dr. Nathalie Edmond's journey informs her approach to dismantling systems of white supremacy, colonialism, and intergenerational trauma. She passionately advocates for collective liberation, highlighting the interconnected struggles for freedom from movements like, Black Lives Matter to native Americans and the Palestinians alongside other marginalized communities. Dr. Edmond owns a therapy practice called Mindful and Multicultural Counseling and leads an online membership community called Antiracism Revolution, all while authoring a best-selling book, "Mindful Race Talk: Building Racial Literacy, Fluency, and Agility."
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EPISODE 17In this podcast interview, Imam Dawud Walid, a prominent Black Muslim scholar and activist, shared valuable insights about America’s web of systemic racism, the Black Muslim experience, and the broader socio-political challenges faced by Muslims in America.
As the executive director of the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI) and a member of the Imams Council of Michigan, Walid brings a wealth of experience from decades of work as an imam and social justice activist. His broad-ranging background—also being a Senior Fellow at Auburn Seminary and a member of the Aspen Institute Racial Justice and Religion Commission—informs his valuable perspective on issues intersecting faith, race, and justice. |
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EPISODE 16This "Storytelling Beyond Border" podcast features Dr. Ilise Cohan, a scholar-activist on Israel/Palestine, Middle East history, Jewish studies, and global justice issues and policies. She co-founded the Jews of Color, bijocsm (Black, Indigenous Jewish of Color Sephardic & Mizrahi) network in partnership with Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP). Dr. Cohan shares her Sephardic heritage and multicultural upbringing that significantly shaped her worldview and her understanding of justice and how her unique work for justice— intertwining scholarship and activism— has driven her to become a prominent advocate for Palestinian rights and a vocal critic of systemic racism within the Jewish community.
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EPISODE 15In this story, Jonathan Kuttab—a leading human rights lawyer and co-founder of Al-Haq—discusses his vision for a just peace in Israel and Palestine. He explores the complexities of the conflict, the shortcomings of the two-state solution, and the potential for a single state where both peoples can coexist in equality. Kuttab also critiques the influence of Christian Zionism and advocates for a nonviolent resistance that forwards solidarity.
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EPISODE 14In this podcast, Rene Lichtman shared his powerful story woven from the threads of history's darkest and most resilient moments. As the son of Polish Jews who fled to France during the 1930s, he survived as a hidden child during the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied France. His journey of antiwar activism began during the 1960s with the Vietnam War, and he has been actively involved in numerous demonstrations. Today, he is a vocal critic of what he terms the "ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza," drawing unsettling parallels between his own experiences and the current plight of Palestinians.
Rene was a founding member of the World Federation of Jewish Child Survivors of the Holocaust (WFJCSH) and Co-Chair of the Hidden Children and Child Survivors of Michigan. He is also President of the Holocaust Education Coalition, founded in 1992. |
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EPISODE 13In this "Storytelling Beyond Border" podcast, we feature Lori Ajlouny's, whose family's Nakba story is one of resilience, rich cultural heritage, and steadfast activism. Born to a Palestinian family from Ramallah, her narrative intertwines personal family history with the broader historical events of the Nakba and the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. Through her journey, Lori provides a powerful testimony of her family's experiences, the vibrant culture of pre-1948 Palestine, and her unwavering commitment to Palestinian activism in the United States.
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EPISODE 12The latest episode of the 'Storytelling Beyond Borders' Podcast features Pranay Somayajula, an Indian-American human rights activist, writer, and organizer who shares his story of uniting diverse histories and struggles for justice to foster solidarity between movements and people —from South Asia to Palestine and beyond.
Pranay highlights the interconnected struggles for justice and liberation worldwide, focusing on the parallels between the Indigenous peoples of Palestine and Kashmir's struggles for self-determination and freedom. He also emphasizes the need to address the intertwined ideologies of Zionism and Hindutva—both are ethno-nationalist movements that seek to establish a homeland for a chosen national community at the expense of others. |
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EPISODE 11In this "Storytelling Beyond Border" podcast episode, Jeyda Muhammad, a student at Princeton University, shared her compelling story about her active participation in the college encampments movement for Palestinian liberation. She also discussed the aftermath of the October 7th, highlighting a notable surge in Islamophobia on campus. Despite the challenges—including harassment and discrimination—Jeyda and her peers remained undeterred.
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EPISODE 10In this episode, we explore Matthew Clark's personal journey of self-discovery and growth as an American Jew and advocate for Palestinian liberation. His story reflects deep introspection, critical thinking, and a deep commitment to justice. Matt's transition from Zionism to Palestinian activism is a compelling testament to the transformative influence of critical thinking and compassion. His journey challenges us to confront ingrained beliefs, engage in challenging dialogues, and strive toward a just and more equitable world.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 9The latest episode of the 'Storytelling Beyond Borders' Podcast featured Indigenous Activist Jaike Spotted Wolf, a prominent voice in the fight for Native American rights—who shared her compelling life story. She highlights how the enduring legacy of colonization continues to impact Native American communities, causing profound pain and generational trauma. Jaike also draws significant parallels between colonial practices, highlighting the shared struggle of both Native Americans and Palestinians.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 8In this episode, Felicia Eaves, a black activist inspired by the Black Panthers, draws many connections between the struggles of African Americans and Palestinians. Felicia recounts the untold history of the Black and Palestinian Alliance that is often overlooked and crucial in understanding the intersection of struggles against oppression. As social media exposes ongoing atrocities, more black voices are joining the call for justice, challenging the narrative of apathy.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 7As we continue to try and center Palestinians, their voices, & their struggles for liberation, we are joined by Nadia, a Palestinian woman who shares her Palestinian roots, her own family's experience in the Nakba of 1948, their lives following their forced displacement, and their resilience that has kept her family hopeful & fighting for a free Palestine. Nadia reminds us of the importance of remembering Palestinians are not numbers. They are living, breathing, beautiful people who deserve a chance at life & liberation.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 6Huwaida Arraf, a Palestinian American human rights attorney, activist, co-founder of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), and former chair of the Free Gaza Movement, shares her journey and vision for the Palestinian cause in our recent storytelling interview, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity. She discusses the history of struggle, her involvement in nonviolent grassroots initiatives to support Palestine, ISM work, and how criticism of Israel is often twisted with antisemitism. She also recounts the narrative behind the Free Gaza movement and its endeavor to challenge the Gaza Blockade through the sailing of Flotillas in 2008 and 2010.
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EPISODE 5In this episode, Joshua Feinstein narrates his story of justice and peace. Over the past several years, Joshua has become a leading voice for peace among the Jewish people. In his quest for a Free Palestine, he is inspired by the words of the late great Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere…Whatever affects one directly affects us all indirectly.’
Read story HERE
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Episode 4In this episode, Mariam Alboustani, a Lebanese American, shares the story of her upbringing in Lebanon and her formative years that were profoundly influenced by the Israeli occupation of Lebanon.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 3In this episode, Lori-Kamleh Ajlouny, a committed Christian Palestinian activist, shares her journey of advocating for Palestinian rights and fostering global understanding. Raised with a strong connection to her Palestinian heritage, Lori's passion for education and justice grew from witnessing the injustices faced by Palestinians, especially regarding access to Jerusalem and the construction of the separation wall. She highlights the interconnectedness of justice movements worldwide, from South Africa to the Black Lives Matter movement. Her powerful message to diverse communities is simple: "See us as human beings, and then you will see us from our hearts."
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EPISODE 2In a recent episode of Storytelling Beyond Borders, we had the privilege of engaging in a heartfelt conversation with Pastor Brandi Hebert, a dynamic individual whose journey of faith and commitment to justice has been a guiding force in her life.
Read story HERE
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EPISODE 1It is a human reflex to feel numb. We’ve all felt it. Powerless. Paralyzed. Desensitized. So many intense emotions boiling inside you—unable to escape—but suppressed to a sour cooling point. Crowded by so many issues of such significant scale, today’s young Americans feel helpless as they are guided by the hand of quietism, passivity, and normalization.
Mary Hanna and Melody Arnst, from the Meta Peace Team, hope to halt this cycle of normalization and detail their first-hand experience with conflict management in this podcast. Read the story HERE |