Ali Velshi joins the hosts to discuss the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Rafah offensive, Al Jazeera shutdown, TikTok ban. They tackle Chinese President's Europe visit, Putin's inauguration, assassination plot against Zelensky. They also talk about activism for abortion rights in Europe and discuss Ali's book 'Small Acts of Courage'.
Lessons from Gandhi influenced Ali Velshi's family ethos of resilience and activism.
Family's commitment to fight apartheid within their businesses based on Gandhi's teachings.
Influence of Gandhi's principles passed down for generations, shaping dedication to social justice.
Deep dives
Gandhi's Influence and Journey in South Africa
Growing up in South Africa during Gandhi's time, Ali Velshi's grandfather had a unique connection with Gandhi, as Gandhi carried Ali's young grandfather on his shoulders. This experience with Gandhi at a young age influenced Ali's family ethos and mentality, instilling values of resilience, activism, and fighting against apartheid.
Impact of Gandhi's Lessons on Family Business
As Gandhi aimed to toughen people up for the struggle against apartheid, Ali's grandfather learned valuable lessons during his time with Gandhi that translated into the family's approach in their businesses. These lessons led to a commitment to fight apartheid in small ways within their businesses, contributing to activism and resistance.
Gandhi's Departure and Family's Continued Activism
Despite Gandhi's departure from South Africa feeling he had failed, the impact of his teachings continued in Ali's family. The principles instilled by Gandhi carried through generations, shaping the family's dedication to social justice and resistance against apartheid laws and practices.
Transference of Values to Future Generations
The values passed down from Gandhi to Ali Velshi's family have not only impacted their approach to business but also influenced their commitment to social causes and activism. This connection highlights the lasting legacy and influence of Gandhi's teachings on subsequent generations.
Promoting Pluralism and Commitment to Public Service
Growing up in a diverse and pluralistic household, the speaker's family instilled values of social justice, equality, and pluralism. They emphasized the importance of embracing diversity as a positive aspect that enriches interactions. The speaker's upbringing in Canada, surrounded by a commitment to pluralism and public service, shaped their perspective and values, leading to a deep-rooted understanding of the importance of inclusivity and engagement in political processes.
Advocating for Reproductive Rights and Citizen Engagement
Reflecting on the importance of reproductive rights, the speaker highlights the need for citizen engagement in shaping policies and advocating for equality. Drawing on experiences from Europe and the US, the speaker underscores the significance of protecting abortion access and ensuring democratic values. Through initiatives like 'My Voice, My Choice,' the speaker emphasizes the power of collective action in influencing political decisions and defending fundamental rights.
Ben and guest host Ali Velshi discuss the latest developments on ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, the beginning of a military offensive in Rafah, the shutdown of Al Jazeera in Israel, and plans to ban TikTok in the United States. They also discuss Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first visit to Europe in 5 years, Putin’s inauguration and an alleged assignation plot against President Zelensky, and Canadian police bringing charges in the assassination of a Sikh separatist on their soil. Then, Ben speaks with Ali about his new book, “Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy”, and interviews Slovenian activist Nika Kovač about the “My Voice, My Choice” campaign to fight for abortion rights in Europe.
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