Hey Immigration Nation,
I want to share a fascinating conversation I had during a recent Uber ride to the Charlotte airport. It began as a simple chat about a conference where I had spoken on the business aspects of law, but quickly evolved into a much deeper dialogue.
After discussing the conference’s focus on enhancing law practices, my driver, Razi, opened up about his strong opinions regarding U.S. foreign policies.
Razi: “I disagree with how Biden is sending all that support to Israel. I voted for him, but I wouldn’t do it again.”
Me: “That’s interesting. What do you think America should do, then? Not support its allies? And what about Trump? What do you think his approach might be?”
Razi was taken aback, not expecting such direct questions.
Razi: “I hadn’t thought about what America’s interest might be there. And no, I wouldn’t support Trump either.”
Me: “But abstaining from voting could indirectly support candidates you disagree with even more. Have you considered that?”
This question surprised him, leading us down a path of historical and political inquiry. As we delved deeper, Razi shared his personal connection to the land and his family’s history, expressing a sentiment of profound connection and displacement.
Razi: “My grandfather stayed when others left in 1948. He said no one would force him off his land. How dare they try to erase the state of Palestine and its people?”
Me: “What do you think the state of Palestine was? When was it created?”
This question paused our conversation. It was clear that while his feelings were deeply rooted, specific historical details were less familiar to him.
Razi: “I… I don’t really know.”
Me: “It’s a complex history, isn’t it? Many people identify as Palestinians, and while there is a shared identity, I am not aware of any historical Palestinian State.”
We also touched on the broader history of the Jewish people and the region itself.
Razi: “Jews moved to Israel to kick out the Palestinians. But, yes, I know Jews had a country once and have lived there through history.”
Me: “And it’s also important to remember what happened to Jews in the Middle East and North Africa during the same period. Many were forced out at gunpoint, losing everything.”
As we approached the airport, it was evident that our brief conversation had sparked a reflection on both sides about our own perceptions and what we accept as the narrative.
Thank you for sharing this journey with me through this email, we are all in this together.
Warmest regards,
Andres “Thoughtful” Mejer
