In the most recent episode of PalCast, available on Apple & Spotify, cohosts Yousef, Helena, and Tony engaged in a profound and thought-provoking conversation with Anas Abu Samhan. Anas, a Palestinian writer and translator, delved into the intricate process of decolonizing both mind and language, emphasizing the critical importance of decolonial epistemology. His personal narrative provided a poignant glimpse into the profound impact of displacement and loss experienced by his family during the ongoing conflict.
Anas completed his undergraduate studies in English Language and Literature at the Islamic University of Gaza, where he built a strong foundation in cross-cultural communication. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and articulating the Palestinian experience. He pursued a specialization in Creative Writing, refining his ability to convey complex emotions and narratives through language. Furthering his education at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, Anas earned a Master’s degree in Comparative Literature, where he explored the diverse literary traditions across cultures.
Anas’s recollections of his late lecturer, Refaat Alareer, from Gaza add depth to the episode. Through Anas’s words, we glimpse the resilience and courage of educators who continue to inspire even amidst adversity.
Towards the end of the episode, Helena contributed valuable insights. She touched on regional developments, including the simmering tensions between Hezbollah, Iran, and Israel. The possibility of a regional war breaking out looms large, and the conversation grappled with the implications for Gaza and beyond.
The PalCast invites listeners to engage in meaningful dialogue, transcending borders and biases. As we listen to Anas’s powerful narrative, we gain a deeper understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—one that extends beyond headlines and statistics. Let’s continue to amplify voices like Anas’s and shed light on the humanitarian impact of this ongoing struggle.