156: Anarchism, Zapatismo, and the Transformative Impact of Palestine Solidarity Work with Joshua Stephens

The Maverick Show with Matt Bowles

Joshua Stephens shares the story of a non-violent direct action he was involved with as part of the “Free Burma” coalition in Washington, DC, that got him arrested at the Myanmar embassy and subsequently labeled a “terrorist in the pay of the CIA and the Vatican” in the official paper of the Myanmar military junta. Matt and Joshua then talk about how they met doing activist work in the early 2000s, mostly in the Palestinian solidarity organization SUSTAIN, and reflect on the lasting impact that the experience and people had on them. Joshua then opens up about his upbringing, the impact of moving between the US, Bermuda and Sicily, and reflects on how stand-up comedy, skateboarding, straight edge culture and punk rock music influenced the development of his politics and worldview. He also explains Anarchism as a political practice and organizing framework, and shares historical examples of its implementation from revolutionary Barcelona in the 1930s to present day Rojava. Joshua also talks about the Zapatista movement, and how his experience with Zapatismo In Chiapas, Mexico influenced him significantly. And, finally, he reflects on his experience participating in the International Solidarity Movement (ISM) in Palestine, and how that solidarity work on the ground in Palestine was so transformative for him. FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: www.TheMaverickShow.com

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