Storytelling as Resistance: Preserving Palestinian Identity with Jenan Matari
In this powerful episode of Siti’s Stories , I sit down with Palestinian storyteller, advocate, and now author Jenan Matari, whose work amplifies Indigenous voices and fights for the preservation of cultural heritage. Jenan is a beacon of storytelling resistance, using her platform to bring awareness to the struggles of marginalized communities—especially Palestinians.
We dive deep into:
- Navigating Palestinian Identity: Jenan shares her experience of feeling the need to "button up" her Palestinian identity in certain spaces, the turning point that led her to leave corporate America, and why Palestine was the line she refused to let others cross.
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Palestinian Women as Pillars of Resistance: We reflect on the strength of Palestinian women—how simply bringing new life into the world and raising it with pride for their homeland is an act of resistance.
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Generational Healing Through Storytelling: Jenan speaks beautifully about interviewing her grandparents for the first time, discovering stories even her parents didn’t know, and how storytelling can be a form of healing generational trauma.
- The Power of Passing Down Stories: Her upcoming children's book, Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden , is a heartfelt narrative inspired by her grandfather's legacy, and a testament to the beauty of learning from our elders.
We talk about the power of storytelling—not just as a tool for resistance, but as a means of connection, healing, and preservation. This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
“Voicemails to Siti” submissions!!! Last week to submit YOUR Siti’s Stories directly on our website, click the tab on the side and start recording right away to be included in our Season 1 Finale!
🌐 Connect with Jenan Matari:
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Instagram:
@jenanmatari
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Zaytoun Publicity:
Zaytoun Publicity
- Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden : pre-order here
🌿 Connect with Siti’s Stories:
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Instagram:
@sitis.stories
- Website: Siti’s Stories
