Sumud Podcast: Inspired by Palestine

In this inspiring episode of the Sumud Podcast, we sit down with Hani Almadhoun, a Palestinian American humanitarian and Senior Director of Philanthropy at UNRWA USA. Hani shares his deeply personal journey growing up between Gaza and the UAE, living in the US, his work in philanthropy, and the unimaginable losses his family has endured due to Israel’s ongoing assaults on Gaza.Hani’s story is one of resilience and unwavering commitment to his community. In 2024, he co-founded the Gaza Soup Kitchen to provide meals for displaced families in Gaza. Amid personal tragedy—including the loss of over 150 family members and the targeted killing of his brother—Hani continues to fight for humanitarian aid and Palestinian dignity.Together, we explore:➡️ The impact of the Nakba and intergenerational displacement➡️ How Hani’s upbringing shaped his dedication to philanthropy and humanitarian work➡️ The importance of community-led solutions like the Gaza Soup Kitchen➡️ The role of UNRWA in supporting Palestinian refugees and why it's under attack➡️ How the land itself becomes a source of survival and resilience during siegeThis episode is a tribute to the resilience of Gaza’s people and a reminder that, even amid devastation, community care and global solidarity can make a difference.🎧 Listen and watch the full episode: https://sumudpod.com/🔗 Learn more & support:🍲 Gaza Soup Kitchen: https://gazasoupkitchen.com/🌍 UNRWA USA: https://www.unrwausa.org/Follow Hani Almadhoun:🌐 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanifundraiser/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alkabeer.alhani/📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myhanitizer/?hl=en🎙️ Follow our host: https://www.instagram.com/dredhasan/  🙏 Special thanks to @ZeinaAshrawiChapters:00:00 Introduction01:59 Family background: From Palestine to UAE 08:56 Moving back from UAE to Gaza and all that it entailed 14:04 The roots of Hani’s activism 17:41 Moving to the US to study 211:32 From Gaza to Utah, the cultural shock31:33 The difference between UNRWA USA and UNRWA in general 37:48 The impact of Israel’s opposition to UNRWA40:16 Hani’s work in light of the current administration 45:24 Hani’s family targeted during the genocide in Gaza52:19 Opening the Gaza Soup Kitchen01:14:30 Ways to advocate for Palestine #SumudPodcast #HaniAlmadhoun #Gaza #Palestine #HumanitarianAid #UNRWA #GazaSoupKitchen #PalestineSolidarity #CommunityResilience Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Sumud Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, an active influential voice on race, history, justice and resistance. A National Book Award-winning author, historian, and professor, Dr. Kendi has reshaped the discourse on racism and anti-racism, from his groundbreaking works How to Be an Antiracist and Stamped from the Beginning to his latest book, Malcolm Lives!🔴At a time when systemic oppression is being actively justified, rewritten, and weaponized, Dr. Kendi breaks down:➡️ The evolution of racist ideologies—how racism reinvents itself to maintain power➡️ The responsibility of anti-racism—why it’s about continuous action, not a fixed identity➡️ Malcolm X’s radical impact—how his critique of Zionism and global oppression remains relevant today➡️ Why Black and Palestinian struggles are deeply connected—and why global solidarity is critical➡️ How racism is used to manufacture consent for genocideDr. Kendi also unpacks the real cost of speaking truth to power, the pushback against anti-racist scholarship, and the urgency of dismantling white supremacy beyond performative allyship.📢 Don’t miss this powerful discussion on racial justice, collective liberation, and the ongoing fight for equality.🔴 For all things Sumud: https://sumudpod.com/📚 Dr. Kendi’s latest book, Malcolm Lives!: https://www.amazon.com/Malcolm-Lives-Official-Biography-Readers/dp/0374311862🌍 Learn more about Dr. Kendi’s work: https://www.ibramxkendi.com/🎙️ Follow our host: https://www.instagram.com/dredhasan/ 📲 Follow Dr. Kendi: https://www.instagram.com/ibramxk/ 📌 CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction03:43 Internalizing racial stereotypes in youth09:06 Being targeted by powerful institutions13:52 Unpacking internalized racism15:34 Being anti-racist requires constant action21:00 The evolution of racist ideologies31:33 Dr. Kendi’s book Malcolm Lives!39:17 Words of advice#SumudPodcast #IbramXKendi #MalcolmX #AntiRacism #BlackLiberation #PalestineSolidarity #Resistance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🔴 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions on sexual assault, trauma, and systemic injustice. If you or someone you know needs support, please refer to the resources below.In this episode of #SumudPodcast, we are excited to be joined by politician Cori Bush, a nurse, activist, and former U.S. Representative for Missouri’s 1st congressional district. Known for her unwavering commitment to justice, racial equity, and human rights, Rep. Bush has been a fierce advocate in Congress for marginalized communities, Palestinian liberation, and holding the U.S. government accountable for its foreign policies.We dive into her journey from activism to Congress, the backlash she faces for speaking up on Palestine, and the challenges of pushing progressive policies within a government resistant to change. Rep. Bush also shares her thoughts on grassroots activism, the power of community organizing, and the need for political accountability in times of injustice.🔗 Learn more and take action: https://www.politivistaction.com/🎧 Watch the full episode and hear her powerful insights!Follow our guest: @coribushFollow our host: @DrEdHasan Follow the podcast: https://sumudpod.comSpecial thanks to Zeina Ashrawi💜 Need Support? Here Are Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors:➡️RAINN (U.S. National Sexual Assault Hotline) – www.rainn.org ➡️National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) – www.thehotline.org ➡️Victim Connect Resource Center – https://victimconnect.org/resources/national-hotlines/ 💡 You are not alone. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to these organizations.#CoriBush #SumudPodcast #Politics #PalestinianLiberation #GrassrootsActivism #JusticeForAll #HumanRights #ProgressivePoliticsChapters:00:00 – Introduction02:41 – From nurse and activist to Congresswoman16:37 – Her SA experience 29:06 – Being evicted and how rough experiences shape her activism42:05 – Going to nursing school as a mother of two01:00:21 – Encountering the Palestinian cause for the first time01:06:56 – Knock Down The House01:21:23 – Her efforts in Congress 01:26:57 The Ceasefire Resolution Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, we are honored to host Tai Salih, also known as Red Ma’at—a Sudanese Pan-African abolitionist, womanist, and social justice educator. Forced to flee Sudan during the second civil war and later settling in Canada as a refugee, Tai has dedicated her life to dismantling oppressive systems, advocating for healing justice, and addressing the deeply rooted structures of colonialism and anti-Black racism.Throughout our discussion, Tai unpacks the following:➡️ Colonial structures that uphold systemic anti-Black racism➡️ Western exploitation of Sudan and Africa➡️ The interconnections between global struggles for justice—from Palestine to Sudan and beyond. She also shares her personal journey of healing, resistance, and activism, and why self-care is a radical act of revolution in the face of oppression.🎧 Watch the full episode and join the conversation: https://sumudpod.com📲 Follow Tai Salih: @red_maathttps://linktr.ee/redmaat 📲 Follow our host: @DrEdHasan Special thanks to Zeina AshrawiChapters:00:00 – Introduction to Tai Salih02:00 – What is Pan-African Abolitionism?07:17 – Fleeing Sudan & the refugee experience12:35 – The colonial roots of anti-Black racism21:02 – Acknowledging Canada's Indigenous lands and the legacy of colonialism30:53 - The effort to be actively anti-racist45:24 - What is happening in Sudan now?01:03:30 – How colonialism and capitalism thrive on division & suffering01:29:52 – How to support Sudan and global liberation movements#Sudan #Politics #Activism  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, we’re happy to host USA Today best-selling author and environmental journalist, Sim Kern. Known for their bold critiques of petrochemical polluters and billionaires, Sim has become a leading voice in mobilizing solidarity for Palestine. Since October 2023, they’ve raised over $500,000 in direct aid for families in Gaza, while using their platform to educate and challenge narratives around Palestine.We discuss their latest book, "Genocide Bad: Notes on Palestine, Jewish History, and Collective Liberation," which examines the ongoing genocide in Gaza, counters Zionist propaganda, and connects Jewish history with the fight for justice. Sim shares their journey from grappling with Zionist narratives to becoming a vocal anti-Zionist activist and how this has shaped their advocacy for collective liberation.This episode delves into:➡️ Sim’s personal journey as a Jewish anti-Zionist.➡️ The systematic erasure of Palestinian voices in publishing and beyond.➡️ The intersections of environmental justice, colonialism, and Palestine.➡️ The backlash and resilience of anti-Zionist activists.🎧 Listen now to hear Sim’s insightful reflections and learn how we can all be part of the fight for justice.📲 Follow Sim Kern: https://linktr.ee/simkern 📲 Follow our host: @DrEdHasan Special thanks to Zeina Ashrawi🌍 Support the podcast and stay updated: https://sumudpod.comCheck out the only Palestinian-owned publisher in the U.S., Interlink Books:https://www.instagram.com/interlinkbookshttps://linktr.ee/interlinkbooks https://x.com/interlinkbooks https://www.facebook.com/interlinkbooks Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:44 Sim’s background: Jewish identity and growing up in rural Illinois086:42 Their journey to anti-Zionism: Key influences and first encounters with Palestinian narratives13:36 Building community for anti-Zionist Jewish people20:40 Suppression in the publishing industry of anti-zionism23:01 Their journey to becoming a power-house author31:17 Environmental justice, colonialism, and the climate crisis in Palestine39:22 The creation and impact of "Genocide Bad"57:41 Messages for anti-Zionist allies and reflections on collective liberationStay tuned for more powerful conversations on justice, resistance, and humanity. 🌟 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This interview was recorded before the Palestinian reconciliation in Jenin and before the latest Israeli military invasion of Jenin.In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, we are proud to feature Diana Buttu, a prominent Palestinian-Canadian lawyer, negotiator, and activist. Diana shares her journey from being the first female negotiator during the Second Intifada to her continued advocacy for justice and human rights.Diana’s experiences shed light on the harsh realities of life under occupation, the challenges of international negotiations, and the systemic injustices faced by Palestinians. She recounts her family’s history, shaped by the Nakba, and her father’s struggle for justice in a deeply discriminatory system. Diana reflects on the lessons she learned from her time negotiating with Israel, the importance of grassroots movements, and the resilience of the Palestinian people.Our hosts, Ed and Zeina, delve into the following topics with Diana:➡️ Her family’s journey through the Nakba and survival under Israeli military rule.➡️ The systemic discrimination and dehumanization faced by Palestinians.➡️ Behind-the-scenes insights from her time as a legal advisor during negotiations.➡️ The enduring spirit of Palestinians resisting displacement and erasure.➡️ Why she remains hopeful for liberation despite immense challenges.🎧Stay tuned for all things Sumud: https://sumudpod.com📲 Follow Diana Buttu: @dianabuttu📲 Follow our hosts: @DrEdHasanSpecial thanks to Zeina AshrawiChapters:00:00 - Introduction01:47 - Diana’s background and her family’s decision to move to Canada 09:18 - Her experience as a Palestinian in Canada12:24 - Experiencing the first Intifada in Palestine and her political awakening 16:11 - Being a part of the negotiations during the second Intifada34:33 - Processing the Israeli violence she witnessed during her time in Palestine 40:01 - Engaging Israelis to Raise Awareness About the Occupation45:35 - Why she chooses to live in Haifa instead of Canada 49:16 - The Palestinian Authority oppressing Palestinians 55:52 - On the ceasefire back and forth 01:00:49 International accountability of Israel’s actions 01:03:33 Insight into the torture Palestinians endure #SumudPodcast #DianaButtu #PalestinianResistance #IsraelApartheid #VoicesOfPalestine #Justice #Advocacy #InternationalLaw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, we are honored to feature writer and activist Nida Abu Baker. She is the daughter of Shukri Abu Baker, co-founder and former CEO of the Holy Land Foundation. Shukri is currently serving a 65-year sentence in federal prison for humanitarian aid work, in one of the most controversial cases against Muslim charities in the U.S.Nida recounts the traumatic events that shaped her life, starting from witnessing her father’s violent arrest during an FBI raid at the age of 10. Four years later, as her father faced unjust incarceration, she stepped into her role as an activist and public speaker.Nida shares her journey of advocating for her father, fighting against stereotypes, and amplifying the stories of Palestinians under occupation. Inspired by her father’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian work, she speaks candidly about navigating life as the daughter of a Palestinian political prisoner in America, while continuing to shed light on the systemic injustices faced by marginalized communities.📲 Follow Nida Abu Baker:@livinlanidaloca | @freethehlf5📲 Follow our host:@DrEdHasanSpecial thanks to Zeina Ashrawi🎧 Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:40 Nida’s background and what shaped her activism 05:47 Introducing her father and what led to his arrest 17:14 School life as a Muslim Palestinian in Texas 23:58 Challenges of life under maximum-security prison conditions31:18 Her father’s trial, and navigating the US justice system 43:32 Changes and threats after October 7th52:22 Breaking the cycle of oppression01:08:39 How you can write letters to her father 01:09:04 Nida reads a poem written by her fatherFor all things Sumud: https://sumudpod.comAbout the Podcast:Sumud Podcast highlights stories of resilience, justice, and activism, featuring inspiring voices from across the globe. Subscribe to join the conversation.#Activism #PoliticalPrisoners #Prison #FBI #Justice  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s #SumudPodcast episode, we are joined by Huwaida Arraf, a Palestinian-American attorney, activist, former U.S. Congress candidate, and co-founder of the International Solidarity Movement.Huwaida has spent her life advocating for justice, human rights, and the liberation of Palestine. Her extensive activism efforts include a leading role in the Free Gaza Movement and organizing the Gaza Freedom Flotilla.In this episode, Huwaida reflects on her family’s journey from Palestine to the U.S., her experiences with international solidarity, and the important role of grassroots activism. She also delves into the challenges of balancing motherhood with activism and the mental and emotional impact of witnessing ongoing atrocities in Gaza.🎧 Watch the full episode to learn more: https://sumudpod.com📲 Follow our host:@DrEdHasan📲 Follow our guest:@huwaida.arraf | https://palsolidarity.org/join/ Special thanks to Zeina AshrawiChapters:00:00 Introduction02:06 Huwaida’s Background as a Palestinian-American06:22 Choosing to Give Birth in Palestine Without Her Husband09:58 Risking Her Life for Resistance17:32 Building Momentum for Palestine’s Cause44:13 Including Her Children in Activism52:17 Arrested and Nearly Missing Her Wedding57:13 Her Experience as a Palestinian with a Jewish Husband01:01:14 Reflections on Her Experience with the Democratic Party🎙️ Don’t forget to follow, like, and share to help amplify Palestinian voices and stories!#HuwaidaArraf #Resistance #Activism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

✨Special thanks to our sponsors:Palestine Drinks Shop: https://www.palestinedrinksshop.com/ | @palestinedrinks_shop on InstagramVisualizing Palestine: https://visualizingpalestine.org/ | @visualizing_palestine on InstagramIn this episode, we are joined by Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac, a Palestinian Christian pastor, theologian, academic dean of Bethlehem Bible College, and author.Reverend Dr. Munther reflects on his personal journey growing up in Palestine during the Intifadas, the challenges of faith under occupation, and the role of the church in the Palestinian liberation struggle.He shares insights from his upcoming book, his impactful "Christ Under the Rubble" display during Christmas, his unwavering commitment to spreading awareness on Gaza today, and the religious diversity in Palestine.📲 Follow us for more:Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac: @munther.isaacSumud Podcast: @SumudPodHost: @DrEdHasanSpecial thanks to Zeina Ashrawi👉 For all things Sumud: https://sumudpod.com🎧 Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:20 Inspiration behind Christ under the rubble06:37 His journey growing up in Palestine during the Intifadas12:47 Liberation theology: A Palestinian perspective19:11 The mission of the church in Palestine and the impact of the Nakba on Christianity in Palestine 28:19 Thanks to our sponsors 30:37 The West’s idea of christians in Palestine 35:06 The complicity of some Western churches in the genocide and the current changes43:30 How Westerners can connect with churches in Palestine44:16 Reverend Dr. Munther discusses his book The Other Side of the Wall49:57 A Christmas message of Sumud and survival🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share to help amplify Palestinian voices and stories!#SumudPodcast #ChristianityInPalestine #LiberationTheology #Christianity #Faith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

✨Special thanks to our sponsors: Palestine Drinks Shop: https://www.palestinedrinksshop.com/ | @palestinedrinks_shop on InstagramVisualizing Palestine: https://visualizingpalestine.org/ | @visualizing_palestine on InstagramOn this episode of #SumudPodcast, we are honored to feature award-winning Palestinian author, social activist, policy analyst, and journalist Laila El-Haddad.Laila’s work spans topics such as life in Gaza, the intersection of food and politics, contemporary Islam, and her experiences as a Palestinian mother and journalist. In 2014, she appeared on CNN's Parts Unknown with Anthony Bourdain, where she guided him through the Gaza Strip, offering a rare and humanizing portrayal of the region.Born in Kuwait, raised in Saudi Arabia, and spending her summers in Gaza, Laila’s journey is a testament to the resilience of Palestinians in the diaspora. A graduate of Duke University and Harvard's Kennedy School of Government in the United States, Laila brings a unique perspective informed by her personal and professional experiences.Join us as our host, @DrEdHasan, explores Laila’s reflections on navigating borders, the challenges of motherhood under occupation, and how food becomes an act of storytelling and resistance.🎧 For all things Sumud: Listen now: https://sumudpod.com➡️ Follow our guest: Laila El-Haddad: @gazamom➡️ Follow our host: Dr. Ed Hasan: @DrEdHasan➡️ Special thanks to Zeina AshrawiChapters: 00:00 Introduction02:01 Laila’s Background: Palestinian identity, displacement, and Israel’s discrtiminatory ID system.12:28 Impact of the Gulf War: Growing up in Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War.15:02 Leaving Gaza: Her parents’ decision and pressures to stay silent before the First Intifada.19:46 Food as Resistance: Connecting to Palestinian culture through cuisine.37:41 Living in the U.S.: Facing the U.S.’s role in perpetuating genocide in Palestine.44:04 Post-9/11 Parallels: Comparing the post-9/11 era to current challenges for Palestinians.51:27 Sponsors: Special thanks to our sponsors.54:08 Writing Gaza Kitchen: Discovering Gaza’s food traditions and working with Anthony Bourdain.01:04:59 Colonialism and Cuisine: How occupation has changed Palestinian culinary traditions.01:24:57 Anthony Bourdain’s Visit: Insights into Gaza’s realities.01:28:22 The Biden Lawsuit: Discussing the landmark case against U.S. support for genocide.01:50:16 Refusing Tokenization: Pushing back against political pressure from the Biden administration.01:53:47 Her Books: Exploring the stories and motivations behind her works. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices