In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, we are honored to feature writer and activist Nida Abu Baker. She is the daughter of Shukri Abu Baker, co-founder and former CEO of the Holy Land Foundation. Shukri is currently serving a 65-year sentence in federal prison for humanitarian aid work, in one of the most controversial cases against Muslim charities in the U.S.

Nida recounts the traumatic events that shaped her life, starting from witnessing her father’s violent arrest during an FBI raid at the age of 10. Four years later, as her father faced unjust incarceration, she stepped into her role as an activist and public speaker.

Nida shares her journey of advocating for her father, fighting against stereotypes, and amplifying the stories of Palestinians under occupation. Inspired by her father’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian work, she speaks candidly about navigating life as the daughter of a Palestinian political prisoner in America, while continuing to shed light on the systemic injustices faced by marginalized communities.

📲 Follow Nida Abu Baker:

@livinlanidaloca | @freethehlf5

📲 Follow our host:

@DrEdHasan

Special thanks to Zeina Ashrawi

🎧 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

02:40 Nida’s background and what shaped her activism 

05:47 Introducing her father and what led to his arrest 

17:14 School life as a Muslim Palestinian in Texas 

23:58 Challenges of life under maximum-security prison conditions

31:18 Her father’s trial, and navigating the US justice system 

43:32 Changes and threats after October 7th

52:22 Breaking the cycle of oppression

01:08:39 How you can write letters to her father 

01:09:04 Nida reads a poem written by her father

For all things Sumud: https://sumudpod.com

About the Podcast:

Sumud Podcast highlights stories of resilience, justice, and activism, featuring inspiring voices from across the globe. Subscribe to join the conversation.

#Activism #PoliticalPrisoners #Prison #FBI #Justice 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices