Palestine Debrief
Palestine Debrief is a podcast that covers stories, people, issues, and events related to Palestine. It features discussions with experts, politicians, artists, and activists, offering a distinctive approach to Palestine as it intersects with the political landscape in Canada and beyond. Produced by Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME), the show aims to provide in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives on the region.
Episodes
CJPME Discussion on NDP Leadership Debate on Palestine
Debate Video: https://youtube.com/live/cD-on4YpRe4?feature=shareSUPPORT OUR WORK - Donate to CJPME: https://www.cjpme.org/donate_epCJPME discusses the "NDP Leadership Debate on Palestine" - hosted by our Director of Media Advocacy Jason Toney, joined by CJPME President Yara Shoufani and Libby Davies - former NDP MP for Vancouver East, former Deputy Leader of the Federal NDP, and longest
NDP Leadership Debate on Palestine - Hosted by CJPME
As NDP members prepare to vote for the party's next leader, join us for a debate on Palestine with the 2026 NDP leadership contestants.For the past two years, the Palestine movement has worked to hold Canada’s political establishment to account. As the NDP increasingly carries advocacy work into Parliament, this debate will bring forward the key priorities of pro-Palestine voices — centering
How Canada Arms Israel's Genocide | Bill C-233 Explained
WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/VMH860aAc-ASUPPORT OUR WORK: Donate to CJPME: https://www.cjpme.org/donate_ep?tc=mini_doc_c233TAKE ACTION: https://www.cjpme.org/no_more_loopholes_act If you believe Canada’s military exports must be transparent, regulated, and compliant with international law, email your Member of Parliament today.Since the start of the genocide, Canada has repeatedly stated tha
Conversation avec Paul Fauteux : CDPQ, Israël et liberté de parole
Dans cet épisode de Palestine Debrief, Anthony Issa parle avec Paul Fauteux, avocat et défenseur spécialisé en droit international. Paul est aussi un ancien diplomate et a occupé le poste de directeur général dans plusieurs ministères fédéraux, incluant le ministère de l'environnement et du changement climatique Canada, ainsi que le ministère des affaires autochtones et du nord canada. Il éta
Divestment and Dismissal w/ Paul Fauteux
A conversation with Paul Fauteux, a lawyer and advocate specializing in International Law. Paul is also a former diplomat and has served as Director General in several federal departments, including Environment Canada and Indigenous and Northern Affairs. Paul shares a bizarre and rather troubling story about an incident that he experienced recently. His position as a sport mediator was not renewed
Ink of Resistence - Interlink vs Censorship w/ Hannah Mouchabek
Interlink Publishing is a fiercely independent, Palestinian-owned press—the only one of its kind in the U.S.—that’s been amplifying Palestinian and Arab voices since 1987. Known for bold, uncompromising titles—including bestsellers and frequently banned books—Interlink has remained steadfast in its mission, even as Genocide Bad draws coordinated smear campaigns and censorship attempts.Joining us t
The Vote Palestine Campaign w/ Yara Shoufani
Joining me today is Yara Shoufani from PYM to talk about the Vote Palestine initiative and platform. The Canadian federal election has officially been announced last Sunday, marking a crucial moment for voters who care about justice and human rights. This election carries particular significance in light of Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza and Canada’s lack of a clear and principled stance since
The Global Push to Stop F-35 Transfers to Israel w/ Kelsey Gallagher
As Israel resumes its bombardment of Gaza following the collapse of the ceasefire and initial attacks relying solely on air strikes, this makes it all the more urgent to understand how the F-35s is actively used to commit these crimes.My guest today is Kelsey Gallagher from Project Ploughshares, a think tank that specialises in conflict zones and human rights abuses as well as broader canadian exp
Boycotting Made Easy w/ Adil Abutalha Founder of Boycat App
With the movement to boycott Israel gaining significant momentum since the start of the Genocide in Gaza, and many major brands facing the heat over their complicity in the occupation, Boycat App is a very powerful and simple tool that is making it easier for consumers to buy consciously and ethically. My guest today is Adil Abutalha, the founder of the Boycat App, the official app partners for th
The Rise of Anti Palestinian Racism in Canada amidst the Genocide w/ Dania Majid
To help us understand APR, its definitions, implication, importance of connection to the Nakba and how it evolved after Oct 7 I am joined by lawyer Dania Majid, co-founder and president of the Arab Canadian Lawyers Association, best known for defining APR in her 2022 publication Anti-Palestinian Racism: Naming, Framing, and Manifestations. She is also the artistic director of the Toronto Palestini
The Lawsuit Challenging Canada’s Role in the Genocide w/ Emilio Dabed
In this episode we speak with Emilio Dabed, the founding member of Legal Centre for Palestine, a lawyer specialised in international law and constituational matter. We talk about the legal proceedings in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice against the Attorney General of Canada for Canada’s failure to act to prevent genocide and in violation of its legal obligations under the Genocide Convention
How Zionism Perpetuates Antisemitism w/ Dr. Ariella Aïsha Azoulay
In this episode of Palestine Debrief, I speak with Dr. Ariella Aïsha Azoulay, a renowned scholar, filmmaker, and author whose work focuses on the intersections of colonialism, photography, and historical narratives. Ariella was born in Israel but rejects the Israeli identity, where she identfies as a Muslim Jew. The refers to Israel as The Zionist Settler colony during the episode.The importance o
Francesca Albanese: ICC Warrant, Canada's UN Vote, Her Canada Visit & More!
Francesca Albanese joins the Palestine Debrief podcast to discuss a variety of important topics: the people who inspire her, her interview with Piers Morgan, her recent tour of Canada, the ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials Netanyahu and Gallant, the hostility she faces from certain reporters, Canada’s vote at the UN, and her role as the UN Special Rapporteur. Francesca Albanese is an i
Mouin Rabbani: The Fragile Ceasefire, Iran, Syria, and the Future of the Conflict
Watch the episode on YouTube. In this episode of Palestine Debrief, Mouin Rabbani, a leading Middle East analyst, discusses the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon and its broader implications for the region. He provides in-depth insights into the expanding conflict in Syria, the evolving dynamics in Lebanon, and the shifting political landscape. Mouin also explores the role of the international communit
What You Don't Hear in Mainstream Media About the Gazan Genocide: with Jon Elmer
We speak with Jon Elmer to provide us alternative views on reporting in Gaza and Lebanon. This episode was recorded before the ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon. Follow Jon on X. Thank you for listening to the ‘Palestine Debrief’ podcast. This podcast is produced by Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME) and hosted by Wissam El Cheikh Hassan. Click here to support the w
Israel Bans Aid Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian Refugees: with Ardi Imseis
This episode we speak to Ardi Imseis, currently Assistant Professor at Queen’s Faculty of Law in 2018, following a 12-year career as a UN official in the Middle East, first with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and then with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). We talk about UNRWA's history, establishment and imp
The Gaza Visa Program: Designed to Fail, Humiliate and Impoverish
This episode is five interviews with Canadians who suffered mentally, emotionally and financially in their attempts to be reunited with their families in Gaza under the governments Temporary Resident Visa Program for Gazans (TRV). The first interview is with Samar Alkhdour whose story highlights the government's attempt to suppress advocacy and freedom of expression and assembly revolving cri
Challenging the Media’s “Palestine Exception”: with Jason Toney
This episode is a conversation with Jason Toney, Director of Media Advocacy at CJPME about Canada's Media Ethics and our Media Accountability Project. We talk about the Canadian media's ethics, standards, biases, and erasure of Palestinian content. We speak about the impact CJPME had on media and the challenges we face. Follow Jason on X. Thank you for listening to the ‘Palestine Debrief
Tech's Role in Genocide: with Paul Biggar
This episode discusses how Israel utilizes technology in their genocide in Gaza, we talk about the AI Lavender, social media censoring of Palestinian voices, media's extensive biases towards the Israel narrative, and IDF soldiers/ Israel government officials who hold positions in media organizations. My guest is Paul Biggar from Tech4Palestine, who was fired from the board of a company he sta
CRA revocation of the JNF's Charitable Status: with Corey Balsam (IJV Canada) and Nicholas Pope
In August 2024, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) revoked the charitable status of the Jewish National Fund of Canada (JNF). This is significant because the JNF is central to the Zionist movement, historically acquiring land in Palestine for exclusive Jewish settlement. It has also supported Israeli military projects and illegal settlements in occupied Palestine.Here to talk about the efforts to ach
Canada's Racist Visa Program for Gazans: with Safinaz El-Solh
On January 9th, 2024, IRCC started accepting applications for a Temporary Residence Visa Program for Gazans with Canadian Family Ties that was called "Crisis in Gaza: Special Measure for Extended Family". Not long after it became clear that the program was not designed to accept refugees. Nothing about the program was urgent and in comparison to past programs the “special measures” seem
How Canada Still Arms Israel: with Rachel Small
worldbeyondwar.org/canadastoparmingisraelEarlier in August the US government announced that General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Inc. a Quebec-based company is the principal contractor in the sale of 50,000 high explosive mortar cartridges and related equipment to the Israeli military, which is worth $61 million US (or about $83 million in Canadian dollars). This is part of a total of $2
Canada's Active Role in US Imperialism: with Muhannad Ayyash
Canada is adamant on their support to Israel, despite when it is becoming extensively clear that Israel is driving the whole world to the brink of a third world war. With the attack that happened last Friday night in a school in Gaza that killed 100 people gathering for morning prayers, it is imperative to understand why Canada refuses to change its stance on Israel.Here to help us make sense of a
ICJ Advisory Opinion on Israel: with Michael Lynk
On July 19th 2024 the ICJ court released its decision regarding Israel’s illegal occupation of the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. It concluded in its ruling that Israel’s continued presence in the occupied territory is illegal and must end as soon as possible. It included Israel’s prolonged occupation, it’s settlement expansion, continuous annexation of the territory, its apartheid policies,
McGill Student Encampment: with SPHR McGill
On April 2nd, pro-Palestinian student groups in Montreal started an encampment on the McGill campus, demanding that the university divest its finances from companies complicit in Israel's genocide in Gaza, like weapons companies BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin. Early this morning, on the 10th of July, it was dismantled. McGill hired a private security firm to shut down the encampment, after t
Israel Bombs Hospitals: with Dr. Yipeng Ge
Our guest for this episode is Dr. Yipeng Ge - follow him on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Within the first 36 hours of Israel’s attack on Gaza after Oct. 7, Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia, Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Al Quds Hospital in Gaza City, amongst other, have been attacked. And it didn’t stop there. For the past 8 months Israel has intentionally and aggressively targetting, attac
Defaming Palestinian Activism: with Michael Bueckert
On October 16, 2023, the Canadian government appointed Deborah Lyons, former Ambassador of Canada to Israel (2016-2020), as the new Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism. The Special Envoy Lyon's office is a joint unit of both Canadian Heritage and Global Affairs Canada, bringing her role into the realm of international relations (whereas the Special Representat
Canada's Policies Towards Israel After Oct. 7: with Dimitri Lascaris
A December article in Al Jazeera describes Canada’s foreign policy towards Israel and Palestine as “schizophrenic.” It’s like Canada supports Israel, wants to support Israel, but is also worried about supporting it too much because it will affect their false image of Canada as a “peace loving, refugee welcoming nation.” We talk about Canada’s policies towards Israel since the beginning of genocide
Exposing Anti-Palestine Media Biases: with Zahraa Al Akhrass
Last month The Breach published an article written by a whistle blower exposing CBC's extensive systemic anti-Palestinian biases in their reporting since October 7. In this episode journalist Zahraa Al Akhrass who was fired from Global in November 2023 after posting pro-Palestinian content on her social media, shares her experiences with similar biases working at Global. Details about Zahraa
Ontario Keffiyeh Ban: Smokescreen, Racism or ? - with Chris Zabaneh
On April 17th 2024, the keffiyeh was banned from being worn by staff and guests in the Ontario legislature by speaker Ted Arnott. There had been no formal complaints nor was a motion presented to Ted Arnott for this ban, yet he acted on his own authority to impose the ban. This conversation with Chris Farris Zabaneh talks about the Keffiyeh Ban, how it came into place, the distraction tactic taken
The Nakba Bill: with NDP MP Matthew Green
In December of last year NDP MP Matthew Green took the lead in sponsoring a Private Member’s bill, informally named “the Nakba Bill.” While the text of Green’s bill has not been made public, Green has made clear that his bill will call for Canada to formally acknowledge the Nakba and its tragic consequences for the Palestinian people. We talk private member bills, the Nakba, Parliament's Pale
Fargo Tbakhi: Envisioning a future Palestine
In this episode, Tom is joined by Fargo Tbakhi, a queer Palestinian American writer and performance artist based in Washington D.C. and winner of 2018 Ghassan Kanafani Resistance Arts Prize. His writings have been published in various literary publications including The Berkeley Review. He is also the recipient of several fellowships. Fargo’s writings and performances challenge notions of erasure
Ahmed Masoud: Amplifying Palestinian voices
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla, and Tom are joined by Ahmed Masoud, Gaza-born Palestinian writer, director, and academic based in the United Kingdom. Ahmed is the author of Come What May and Vanished which address issues in Gazan society, as well as in broader trends in Palestinian history. Ahmed has also directed a number of plays and is the co-founder of PalArt, a collective initiative aimed at
Ussama Makdisi: Narrating our Middle Eastern History
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla, and Tom are joined Dr. Ussama Makdisi, Palestinian-American scholar and academic, currently a Professor of History and Chancellor’s Chair at the University of California Berkeley. Dr Makdisi is the author of several books and publications on sectarianism, Ottoman and Arab history, US-Arab relations, and US missionary work in the Middle East. Listen in as we discuss
Resisting Apartheid in Masafer Yatta (w/ Basel Adra and Daniel Roth)
In this episode, Michael is joined by Palestinian journalist and activist Basel Adra, and Daniel Roth of the Centre for Jewish Nonviolence, to discuss Israel’s plans to expel more than 1,000 Palestinians from their homes in Masafer Yatta. We hear about what is happening on the ground, and discuss the role of journalism and international solidarity in challenging dispossession and apartheid. Links
Defending the Right to Boycott (w/Ben Jamal, Director of Palestine Solidarity Campaign)
In this episode, Michael is joined by Ben Jamal, Director of Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) in the UK. They discuss the anti-boycott bill currently being pushed by the British conservative government, how it poses a threat to freedom of speech and expression, and how civil society is fighting back to defend the ‘right to boycott.’ Links from this podcast:Follow the Palestine Solidarity Campai
Chris Gazaleh: Palestinian-American Muralist & Activist
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla, and Tom are joined by Chris Gazaleh, Palestinian-American muralist, activist, and community organizer. Using different mediums like ink, paint, and digital illustrations, Chris uses powerful symbols and imagery to advocate for Palestinian human rights and social justice. Listen in to learn about Chris’s art, his inspiration, and his efforts to use art to advocate fo
Heifa Odeh: Author of “Dine in Palestine”
In this episode, Tayla and Tom are joined by Heifa Odeh, Palestinian-American chef, recipe developer and food blogger. Founder of the blog Fufu’s Kitchen and author of the recent cookbook, Dine in Palestine, Heifa seeks to celebrate and preserve traditional Palestinian dishes and recipes. Listen in to learn about Heifa’s expression and celebration of her Palestinian identity and culture through fo
Mirna Bamieh: Performing Palestinian Food
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla and Tom are joined by Mirna Bamieh, Palestinian chef, artist and founder of the Palestine Hosting Society - a cultural and social project that seeks to reclaim and revitalize Palestinian food practices and dishes. Listen in to learn about Mirna’s commitment to celebrating the Palestinian identity, culture, and heritage through food. Links:Check out the Palestine Host
Farah Nabulsi: From Stockbroker to Award-Winning Director
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla and Tom are joined by Farah Nabulsi, Palestinian-British filmmaker and human rights advocate. She has written and produced four short films including Today They Took My Son and Nightmare of Gaza. Her most recent short The Present has won over 50 International awards for its powerful portrayal of the daily struggles faced by Palestinians living under Israeli occupatio
Settler-Colonial Violence in Occupied Palestine (w/ Jalal Abukhater)
In this episode, Michael is joined by Jalal Abukhater, a Palestinian writer and activist based in Jerusalem, to discuss settler-colonial violence and dispossession in occupied Palestine. We discuss Israel’s attacks on the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem, Israel’s repeated military invasions in the West Bank (including this week’s deadly attack on Jenin), and Palestinian armed resistance. Links f
Bridging Palestine with the world (w/ Inès Abdel Razek of the Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy)
In this episode, Michael is joined by Inès Abdel Razek, Executive Director of the Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy (PIPD), an independent Palestinian organization focused on international mobilization and digital campaigning for Justice, Freedom and Equality. We discuss the work of PIPD and Palestine Virtual Reality, trends in Palestinian solidarity since May 2021, and what Palestinians th
Darin Sallam: Fearless about Palestine
In this episode, Rafeef, Tayla and Tom are joined by Darin Sallam, Palestinian-Jordanian writer, director and filmmaker. Her most recent film, Farha, follows a young-girl’s traumatic experience during the Nakba. Despite obstacles in producing the film, Farha has been extremely well-received, especially among Palestinians for its realistic depiction of the devastating events of the Nakba. Listen in
The Palestine Laboratory (w/ Antony Loewenstein)
In this episode, Michael and Reem are joined by Antony Loewenstein to discuss his latest book, The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World. We discuss how Israel’s arms industry uses the occupied Palestinian territories as a testing ground for weaponry and surveillance technology that it then exports around the world. We also discuss the censorship of
Maysoun Odeh: Empowering Palestinian women through radio
In this episode, Rafeef and Tayla are joined by Maysoun Odeh, Palestinian entrepreneur and co-founder and director of “NISAA”, the first Arabic radio station in the Middle East that is run by women for women. Launched in 2010, NISAA’s mission is to transform the perception of “women’s role in society by highlighting their social engagement, successes, and creativity.” Maysoun has worked to help in
Vivien Sansour: Seeds, Solidarity & Social Change
In this episode, Tom, Rafeef and Tayla are joined by Vivien Sansour, the Palestinian-American founder of the Palestine Heirloom Library – a cultural and social project that works with farmers and advocates to recover and conserve threatened crop varieties. Through her art and storytelling, Vivien advocates for greater social engagement with Palestinian agriculture, heritage, and culture. Currently
75th Anniversary of the Nakba (Webinar with Zochrot)
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Nakba (“catastrophe” in Arabic), when more than 700,000 Palestinians were forcibly expelled from their homes and country during the creation of Israel. To mark this occasion, CJPME and the Ottawa Forum on Israel Palestine recently hosted a webinar with Umar al-Ghubari and Rachel Beitarie, co-directors of Zochrot, a Jaffa-based organization which is dedic
Weekly Round-Up: Al-Aqsa attack – Canada’s response; Bob Rae comment; Gaza Farm Aid Project
In this news round-up episode, Reem joins Tom and Michael to discuss last week’s attack on Palestinian worshippers in the Al-Aqsa compound, and how Canada responded. They’ll also talk about an interesting comment by Canada’s ambassador to the UN, and a recent humanitarian initiative for Gaza’s struggling farmers. Links from this podcast:Read CJPME’s press release: Canada must condemn, sanction b
Nasser Jaber: NYC Restauranteur & Palestinian Entrepreneur
In this episode, Rafeef and Tom are joined by Nasser Jaber, the Palestinian-American co-founder of the Migrant Kitchen - a social enterprise in NYC which showcases the stories and cuisines of immigrant chefs. Nasser arrived in New York from Ramallah in 2001 hoping to make it big on Wall Street; but ended up being one of the city’s most influential restauranteurs. His journey as an advocate for mar
Visualizing Palestine (w/ Aline Batarseh)
What is data storytelling? How do we shift the dominant narrative on Palestine? On this episode, we are joined by Aline Batarseh, Executive Director of Visualizing Palestine. We discuss the work of Visualizing Palestine, its successes, its challenges, its new strategic plan, international solidarity, and the importance of shifting the narrative toward justice. Links from this podcast:· Visual
Najat El-Khairy: Painting her way back to Palestine
In this episode, we’re joined by Najat El-Taji El-Khairy, a Palestinian-Canadian artist who has created a unique art form combining her interests in both embroidery and porcelain painting. Najat’s art has been exhibited in various venues throughout North America, the Middle East and Europe. Najat has made it her mission to immortalise, protect and preserve the art of Palestinian embroidery. As
Weekly Round-Up: Smear campaign against Sarah Jama; Pushing for media accountability on Palestine-Israel
In this news round-up episode, Tom and Michael discuss two important recent developments: The smear campaign against progressive Ontario NDP candidate Sarah Jama over her support for Palestinian human rights, and a new initiative from CJPME to demand great accountability of Canadian media in their news coverage of Palestine-Israel. Links from this podcast:Globe and Mail story on Sarah Jama, quotin
Weekly Round-Up: Huwara Pogrom, Senator Trip to Israel, Kufiyah Ban at Halifax School
In this news round-up episode, Tom and Michael discuss several important recent developments: Canada expresses concern about the settler pogrom on the Palestinian town of Huwara; Canadian senators meet with a far-right member of the Israeli Knesset; and a Halifax school bans students from wearing the Kufiyah, in an incident of anti-Palestinian racism.Links from this podcast:· CJPME: Canada mu
Wafa Ghnaim: Teaching Palestinian Liberation through Tatreez
In this episode, we’re joined by Wafa Ghnaim, an award-winning Palestinian researcher, educator, author and tatreez expert living in Washington, DC. Her book, titled, Tatreez and Tea: Embroidery and Storytelling in the Diaspora was published in 2018 and documents the stories and meanings behind the Palestinian embroidery motifs that were handed down to Wafa by her mother, Feryal Abbasi Ghnaim, an
Palestinian Liberation through Tatreez, with Wafa Ghnaim
In this episode of "Debrief," we introduce you to the other CJPME podcast: "All Things Palestinian Canadian." Focused on the lives and experiences of Palestinians in the diaspora, "All Things Palestinian Canadian" (ATPC) has interviewed Palestinian authors, filmmakers, artists, and more. In this episode, ATPC speaks with Wafa Ghnaim, an award-winning Palestinian res
Canada ignores its own warnings on Israel (w/ Alex Cosh of The Maple)
Is the Trudeau government ignoring warnings from its diplomats about Israel’s human rights abuses? On this episode, Michael is joined by Alex Cosh of the Maple to discuss his ongoing reporting on what Canadian officials are saying behind the scenes, and how that often conflicts with Canada’s public statements. We talk about Canada’s warm reception to Israel’s far-right government, its reaction to
How University Partnerships with Israel Harm Academic Freedom (w/ Dyala Hamzah and Jillian Rogin)
Last summer, a number of Canadian university presidents participated in a controversial trip to Israel, for the purpose of building partnerships between Canadian and Israeli universities. The trip, which was organized by a major pro-Israel lobby group, has sparked major concerns over the possible impact on human rights and academic freedom. On this episode, Michael is joined by faculty members Dya
Rana Nazzal: Research, Human Rights, Art and Activism
In this episode, we’re joined by Rana Nazzal, a Palestinian-Canadian artist living between Palestine, Ottawa and Toronto. Among other things, Rana’s powerful art explores Palestinians’ relationship with the land, and the themes of Palestinian memory and loss. In addition to her art, she is also an activist and campaigner on grassroots issues including not only Palestinian human rights, but also c
BMO’s Apartheid Loan (w/ Emma Paling of The Breach)
On this episode, Michael is joined by Emma Paling of the Breach to talk about the recent discovery that the Bank of Montreal (BMO) gave a $90m loan to Israel’s largest weapons company Elbit Systems. We discuss Elbit’s human rights record, Canada’s own contracts for military technology from Elbit, and why some investors have decided to divest from the company.Links from this podcast:The Breach: Rev
Rafeef Dajani: ATPC’s New Co-host
As we launch our first ATPC episode for 2023, we note that we sadly said goodbye to Nur Watad in December, as she made the decision to move on to new career challenges elsewhere. But we are thrilled to have lined up a very articulate and capable new co-host in the meantime, Ms. Rafeef Dajani. Rafeef has been a friend to CJPME for several years, and more importantly, an ardent participant in the gl
War Crimes in Jenin (w/ UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese)
On this episode, Michael is joined by Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967. We talk about Israel’s recent deadly attack on the Jenin refugee camp and why she believes these actions violate international law. We also talk about apartheid, settler-colonialism, and what we can expect to see from the UN’s Commission
Liberating Palestine (w/ Ramzy Baroud and Ilan Pappé)
On this episode, Tom and Michael are joined by Ramzy Baroud and Ilan Pappé, co-editors of the book “Our Vision for Liberation: Engaged Palestinian Leaders and Intellectuals Speak Out.” In their new book, they bring together a diverse group of Palestinian voices – from filmmakers to religious figures to politicians and more – to share their own experiences and perspectives on the way forward for Pa
How dangerous is Israel’s new far-right government? (w/ Natasha Roth-Rowland of +972 Magazine)
On November 1st, Israelis completed their fifth election in four years, returning Benjamin Netanyahu to power with the support of extreme, far-right figures who are about to play a major role in the emerging coalition government. Although negotiations to form the government are still underway, it is commonly said that this may be Israel’s most far-right government in history. On this episode, we a
Fida Jiryis: Finding her elusive place as a Palestinian
In this episode, we’re joined by Fida Jiryis, Palestinian author currently living in Ramallah. Jiryis grew up in Lebanon and Cyprus, the daughter of famed Palestinian thinker and leader, Sabri Jiryis. As her family fled Israel’s oppression and wars, Jiryis’ life has spanned the full spectrum of the Palestinian people’s forced fragmentation: in Israel, the West Bank and the diaspora. Her writings
Report from Palestine: CJPME’s eyewitness account of Israeli apartheid
CJPME’s Michael Bueckert recently returned from a two-week trip to Palestine-Israel. During his time there, Bueckert met with dozens of Palestinian community leaders and organizations, politicians, youth activists, business leaders, and academics. He also visited current hotspots including Sheikh Jarrah, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and Jenin, as well as unrecognized Bedouin villages in the Naqab. Get a
Rimah Jabr: Bringing the Palestinian experience to Canadian stages
In this episode, we’re joined by Rimah Jabr, a Palestinian play wright and theatre director based in Toronto who is currently pursuing her PhD in Theatre and Performance Studies at York University. Rimah’s career arc is far from ordinary: after studying and working in accounting for several years, Rimah finally had her breakout opportunity at age 30, and found herself at Belgium’s Royal Institute
Wafa Alzaghal: Introducing Canada to the Arab orchestra
In this episode, we are joined by Wafa Alzaghal, Palestinian-Canadian President & CEO of The Canadian Arabic Orchestra. Wafa grew up playing the Qanun, also known as the dulcimer, after being inspired by his father’s love for classical Arabic music. Wafa co-founded the Canadian Arabic Orchestra in 2014, and has been busy touring Canada with a repertoire of both Western and Eastern tunes. Join
Will Calgary cancel its contract with apartheid? (w/ Saba Amro and Annette Lengyel)
In this episode, we are joined by Saba Amro and Annette Lengyel, two Calgary-based activists who have been at the forefront of pressuring Calgary to cancel a contract with Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) – a Spanish/Basque company which is unethically involved in a $2.5 billion CDN contract to expand Jerusalem Light Rail (JLR) network. Join us as we discuss Calgary’s contract wit
Dalia Elcharbini: Expressing Palestinian Identity Through Contemporary Art
In this episode, we are joined by Dalia Elcharbini, Palestinian-Canadian contemporary artist and international exhibitor based in Toronto. While Dalia’s artistic style is distinct and unique, she frequently infuses it with symbolism and memories of Palestine. Listen in as we discuss her art, her inspiration, her Palestinian identity and her efforts to use art to help children impacted by war. Li
The Islamophobia Industry in Canada (w/ Jasmin Zine)
What and who are the main drivers of anti-Muslim hate in Canada? On this episode, Michael and Tom are joined by Jasmin Zine, author of a new report on the Canadian “Islamophobia Industry.” We talk about some of the key organizations, personalities, and discourses responsible for perpetuating anti-Muslim hate in Canada, and how the connections between them form an ecosystem of hate. As part of this
Serene Husni: Patiently capturing Palestinian reality in film
In this episode, we are joined by Serene Husni, a video editor, mentor, writer and translator. A Diasporic Palestinian and immigrant from Jordan turned Canadian settler, she calls herself “a displaced human existing between multiple cultures, languages, and locales.” She creates most of her own work in her mother tongue, Arabic. Freely available to watch online, her latest film “Brown Bread &
From South Africa to Israel: How apartheid states try to deflect criticism
Last spring, Fernwood Publishing announced a new book, Advocating for Palestine in Canada: one of the first-ever books about Palestinian solidarity work in Canada. Michael Bueckert, one of Debrief’s regular hosts wrote a chapter in the book looking at how Israel seeks to deflect and dismiss criticisms of its oppressive and apartheid practices. This subject matter is also the focus of Michael’s P
Canadian media and pro-Israel bias (w/ Davide Mastracci)
Is Canadian media biased towards Israel and against Palestinians? Where does bias come from, and how can we challenge it? On this episode, Michael and Tom are joined by Passage’s Davide Mastracci, author of a chapter on Canadian media and pro-Israel bias in the book Advocating for Palestine in Canada (Fernwood, 2022). We talk about the role of journalists, editors, corporate owners, and lobby grou
Saeed Teebi: Sharing the Diaspora Palestinian Experience through Fiction
In this episode, we are joined by Saeed Teebi, a writer and lawyer based in Toronto who has recently released a highly celebrated book of short stories entitled, “Her First Palestinian.” Teebi’s book is a collection of stories about diaspora Palestinians struggling to find their place as immigrants to Canada. It is also one of five books shortlisted for the $60,000 Atwood Gibson Writers' Tr
ATIP Documents Reveal What Canada’s Foreign Affairs Experts REALLY Think About Canada’s Pro-Israel Record at the UN
Tom and Michael discuss a recent report authored by Michael and its implications for upcoming votes on Palestinian human rights at the United Nations General Assembly. The report, based on documents obtained through an access to information request, found that Canada’s career foreign affairs officials are highly critical of Canada’s staunchly pro-Israel record, and have been pushing for a change i
Shadia Qubti: Wrestling with reconciliation, justice, faith and gender
Shadia Qubti is a Palestinian from Nazareth who is currently completing a degree in Interreligious and Indigenous Studies at Vancouver School of Theology in Canada. Prior to coming to Canada, Shadia studied International Relations and English Language at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, as well as Conflict Resolution and Nonviolent Action at Trinity Dublin College in Ireland. She has worked fo
Unveiling the Chilly Climate: The Suppression of Speech on Palestine in Canada (w/ Independent Jewish Voices)
On this episode, Michael and Tom are joined by Sheryl Nestel and Rowan Gaudet of Independent Jewish Voices Canada to talk about their new report on the suppression of speech on Palestine on Canadian campuses. We look at how pro-Israel groups have used harassment and intimidation against pro-Palestine academics to create a “chilly” atmosphere for debate. We talk about how students have been affecte
Abeer Barakat: Empowering and supporting the people of Gaza
Abeer Barakat is a Palestinian lecturer of English at the University College of Applied Sciences in Gaza and is a PhD candidate at the University of Putra Malaysia. Abeer is an activist for the Palestinian cause and has done amazing activism work in the field of female empowerment and has provided mothers and children impacted by attacks on Gaza with continuous psychological support. She as well
Shawky Fahel: Palestinian-Canadian Business Leader and Philanthropist
Shawky Fahel came to Canada in the 1960’s and started his first business in 1979 with a $1000 loan and nothing more than a few carpet and paint supplies. Based in Waterloo, ON, Shawky became successful businessman, political activist and philanthropist who has received innumerable awards over the years, both at the local and national level, for his various contributions. Yet amidst all this busy
Palestine Solidarity in Canada: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
Two months ago, Fernwood Publishing announced a new book, Advocating for Palestine in Canada: one of the first-ever books about Palestinian solidarity work in Canada. Tom Woodley, one of Debrief’s regular hosts wrote a chapter in the book discussing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that lie before the Palestinian solidarity movement in Canada. With Michael on vacation, our p
