Introducing Laila

These remarks were delivered as part of the 20th annual Maryse and Ramzy Mikhail Memorial Lecture Series. More information on the series is available at mikhaillecture.wordpress.com Good evening, thank you, John, and thank you to Dean Gilbert and the  University of Toledo College of Arts and Letters and everyone who worked to make this event … Continue reading Introducing Laila

‘A National Holiday That I Do Not Recognize’– Reflections on Columbus Day 2015

Today I am not at the office in observance of a United States national holiday that I do not recognize, a day commemorating that in which I recognize my complicity yet nonetheless reject; the project of settler-colonial domination and the creation and perpetuation of myths of nation which oppress. Across the North American continent to … Continue reading ‘A National Holiday That I Do Not Recognize’– Reflections on Columbus Day 2015

Syrian American Contributions

Syrian Americans have been part of the rich fabric of American life for over a century. Syrian Americans include members of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Syrian Americans have contributed and elevated American politics, sports, popular and high culture, academia, industry, and civic life for generations. If Paula was your favorite judge on American Idol … Continue reading Syrian American Contributions

Şükran Gününüz Kutlu Olsun! (Happy Thanksgiving!)

This post sends my sincerest Thanksgiving greetings to my friends and family, wherever they may be. This year marks my first ever Thanksgiving away from my traditional Waggoner family Thanksgiving/ reunion in Wood County, OH. İ took the opportunity this week to teach my classes about the history and traditions of the holiday, which was … Continue reading Şükran Gününüz Kutlu Olsun! (Happy Thanksgiving!)

Ray Kelly to DHS? Here’s Why Not

This was originally posted on AAI's newsblog on July 19, 2013 under the title, "Why Commissioner Kelly is the Wrong Choice to Lead Homeland Security." Recent press reports have suggested that President Obama may be considering Ray Kelly, Commissioner of the New York Police Department (NYPD), for the recently vacated position of Secretary of the Department … Continue reading Ray Kelly to DHS? Here’s Why Not

Forward?

This piece was originally published under the title "Hope and Change From Election Night's Results" http://kenyonobserver.com/2012/11/07/hope-and-change-from-election-nights-results/ on the Kenyon Observer blog on November 7, 2012 in reaction to elections in the United States the previous day. In his acceptance speech last night, President Barack Obama said, “we know in our hearts that for the United States … Continue reading Forward?

Politics, Love, Religion, and Hip Hop

This piece was originally published on the Kenyon Observer blog on October 15, 2012. In the wake of the ongoing Supreme Court hearing regarding Proposition 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act, and a lively debate about attacking oppression within those marginalized communities advocating repeal of these laws, Macklemore's message of inclusion remains as timely … Continue reading Politics, Love, Religion, and Hip Hop