How do you raise your voice in the chaos?
In an atmosphere of accelerating misinformation, hostile speech, and polarization, we want to uplift stories of clear, confident voices that can help guide us through the confusion.
Have you called your representatives to tell them your concerns and priorities? Do you face risks and challenges to making your opinions heard in our democracy? Do you have experiences speaking out under authoritarian regimes? Have you ever organized your neighbors to take collective action against an injustice? Have you ever run for elected office, or worked on someone’s election campaign?
In the middle of a contentious election season, we want to cut through hateful rhetoric and divisive language and rehumanize each other. We hope you'll join us for an evening of powerful stories and robust conversation.
Featured Storytellers:
Aliza Benor is from Los Angeles, and currently holds three jobs working for the transit coalition, in Jewish education, and assisting adults with disabilities. She received a degree last year in City Planning and Arabic, and was a student leader spearheading dialogue on her college campus.
Amy Shimshon-Santo was born on Tovaangar land in L.A. and has immediate family in the Americas and the Middle East. She is the mother of two artists, and author of five books of poetry and creative nonfiction. (www.amyshimshon.com)
Dr. Jessica Spence Moss is an interfaith activist and academic, as well as a daughter, wife, and mother. She has served as the Executive Director of Interfaith Youth Alliance since 2021. She believes that as we attempt to create a more just and peaceful world, we must cultivate the characteristics of curiosity, hospitality, and authenticity. Jessica is in constant awe of the beauty and inspiration she finds in diverse religious, spiritual, secular, and ethical traditions she has come in contact with.
Layla Sadrieh is a UCLA freshman studying Political Science on the pre-law track. Across her academic, civic, professional, and community work, Layla has consistently been guided by one central commitment: serving the communities that have shaped her and creating spaces where people feel heard, represented, and empowered.
Nina M. Fernando serves as Executive Director of the Shoulder to Shoulder Campaign, a national multifaith coalition committed to countering and preventing anti-Muslim discrimination and violence in the United States by building a society where all are treated with dignity and respect. Nina's intersectional identities have informed her work as a multifaith community organizer, activist, vocalist, and songwriter.
Ryan Ahari is a former Peace Corps Volunteer in Armenia, where he taught English, strengthened local tourism, and fostered cross-cultural exchange. He worked on Josh Harder’s victorious congressional campaign, contributing to flipping California’s 10th District, and worked in the Capitol Hill offices of Congressmembers Eleanor Holmes Norton and Conor Lamb. He also served as Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman’s Senior Field Deputy for Sherman Oaks and Van Nuys including State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian’s Field Representative, in which he improved the quality of life for thousands of Angelenos.