How Deeyah Khan Faces Hate With Humanity (Live!)

This Being Human

In this episode of "This Being Human," we sit down with Deeyah Khan, an acclaimed filmmaker and activist renowned for her transformative documentaries. Deeyah shares her remarkable journey from being a music artist to becoming a powerful voice against extremism through film. Growing up as a Norwegian of Pakistani descent, she faced significant cultural and racial challenges that shaped her worldview and ignited her passion for storytelling. Deeyah recounts her transition from music to filmmaking, driven by a desire to address critical social issues and humanize those often seen as enemies.
Deeyah delves into her profound experiences engaging with white supremacists and jihadis, offering an unfiltered look at the roots of their beliefs and the power of empathy. Her films, including encounters with former extremists, have not only shed light on the psychology of hate but have also sparked moments of transformation for her subjects. Through heartfelt dialogue and unwavering courage, Deeyah's work demonstrates the possibility of change and understanding even in the most polarized situations.
Throughout the conversation, Deeyah reflects on the importance of empathy, love, and humanizing others as acts of defiance and resistance. She discusses the personal impact of her work, including how motherhood has deepened her commitment to creating a better world. This episode offers a powerful exploration of art as activism and the enduring hope that comes from seeing beyond hatred to our shared humanity. Join us as we uncover the stories behind Deeyah Khan's impactful films and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of empathy.
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