Season 2, Episode 12 | Guest: Brian Carwana

In today's new podcast episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we're delving into the intricacies of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We've noticed the profound impact this war has had on colleges, teams, and workplaces. Sorting through the vast amount of information available is challenging as it's tough to discern the facts from the misleading or inaccurate information circulating. 

Joining us today is Brian Carwana, Executive Director at Encounter World Religions Centre, to help navigate and come to grips with this complex issue. Brian is an esteemed figure in the realm of religious literacy, with a wealth of experience spanning two decades in the field. Brian has actively engaged with diverse sectors, imparting insights and expertise on religious diversity and pluralism.

In our conversation, we unpack the complexities of the war and its impacts on society and workplaces in Canada. We discuss the history of the war, the nuance factors resulting in an ongoing war, and its overall impact on Canadian society. Gain insights into the different perspectives on the war, the national discourse on the topic, how the conflict is creating tensions in the workplace and more. Brian also provides advice to leaders and employees for navigating the discourse with compassion and how to foster understanding of each other perspectives in the workplace.

 Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of violence, conflict, and sensitive geopolitical issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which may be distressing or triggering for some Listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Overview of the war and where the current issues stem from.
• Reasons for the immigration of Jewish people into Palestine.
• Critical aspects to keep in mind when discussing the topic.
• The role of the British and the United Nations in the conflict's history.
• How previous suffering on both sides has led to war.
• Insights into the historical oppression of both communities.
• He unpacks what each side seeks to accomplish.
• Brian explains the national discourse in Canada surrounding the war.
• Problematic ideologies and language used in the national discourse.
• Discover how the war is impacting people in Canada.
• Common problems and tensions felt in the workplace about the war.
• Advice for leaders for navigating the topic within the workplace.
• Why increasing education around religious minorities is essential.
• Creating safe environments for robust and honest conversations.
• Final words of wisdom Brain has for listeners.

For further resources on the background of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, check out these two blogs here: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/10/11/background-on-the-israeli-palestinian-conflict/; https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/11/02/backgrounder-on-israel-palestine-part-ii/

To delve into understanding Antisemitism, explore this comprehensive blog: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/10/26/why-do-they-hate-the-jews/

Additionally, to gain insights into Palestinians and the Muslim Other, visit: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/11/08/palestinians-and-the-muslim-other/