Siegebreakers: Gaza's Struggle Through Justin Podur's Eyes
All liberals can manage to say: right now, after children have been vaporized and hundreds of civilians have been vaporized, you're just watching towers fall down and they're all saying: well, Israel has a right to defend itself. So they don't have a problem with violence at all.
What does resistance look like in one of the most contested regions in the world? In this compelling episode of 'Recovery and Transformation', host Sameer Dossani sits down with Justin Podur, author of the novel 'Siegebreakers', to unpack the complex layers of Gaza's ongoing struggle. Podur's insights come from his time with the International Solidarity Movement, a group dedicated to nonviolent resistance against colonialism in Gaza.
The conversation kicks off with a dive into Podur's background and the influences of thinkers like Chomsky and Marx on his work. They then explore the current situation in Gaza, touching on the cycle of violence and how Islamophobia intertwines with colonialism. One of the most thought-provoking parts of their discussion is whether nonviolent resistance can truly bring about change in such a fraught environment.
Podur also shares his perspective on international solidarity, particularly Canada's role, and what actionable steps can be taken to support those in Gaza. The episode wraps up with a look at possible futures for the region, leaving listeners with much to ponder about political and humanitarian efforts in Palestine. Whether you're deeply familiar with the Israel-Palestine conflict or looking to understand it better, this episode offers valuable perspectives that challenge conventional narratives.