The Language of Peace

Adam and Ciara speak with Awad Awad, the inaugural director of Salaam, Middle East and North African Cultural Center at the University of Illinois, who shares his experiences and perspectives on his Palestinian identity and the complexities of the Middle East. We discuss the need for healthy dialogue, equal rights for all, and the importance of understanding the diverse cultures and histories of the holy land and the Arabic-speaking world. We also discuss the ongoing conflict in Israel/Palestine, the role of diplomacy versus violence in resolving it, and the importance of empathy, understanding, and dialogue in resolving conflicts (Awad's statements do not represent the center or the university but rather his own personal beliefs).