The Emancipated Citizen

This podcast is meant to be a platform for activists taking democratic initiative and standing up against authoritarianism across the globe. We believe that every human is entitled to democratic representation and universal human rights, as outlined in the UDHR. As the voices of people under authoritarian regimes far too often get lost in the global discussion in favor of western-centered politics, we have taken those as our main focus. The podcast’s individual episodes will be centered around the experiences and backgrounds of activists around the world fighting for their rights.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio

Episodes

Tuesday Sep 17, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with Egyptian former Muslim and atheist Mohammed Nofal to discuss his courageous journey from Islam to atheism, his infamous TV appearance, and the broader struggles faced by ex-Muslims, atheists, and religious minorities in Egypt. We explore the country’s historical, cultural, and political landscape, delving into the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood, the impact of secular dictators, and the influence of Islamofascism on Egyptian society. Join us as we analyze the challenges of reforming Islam, the intersection of ethnic and cultural identity, and the potential paths toward a more inclusive and tolerant future for Egypt.
 
Check out and subscribe to our YouTube Channel!
 
https://www.youtube.com/@theemancipatedcitizenpodca7231
 
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
 
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
 
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
Feel free to contact us through Email
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
on X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis

Sunday Sep 01, 2024

Welcome back to The Emancipated Citizen Podcast!
In our 24th episode, we, Ben and Zac, discuss the human rights implications and aspects of the 2024 Summer Olympics, starting with women’s boxing, the slander some of the competitors have faced, and the wider implications of this fiasco for LGBT and gender-non-conforming people in Algeria and beyond. We also examine the roles that prominent authors, such as J.K. Rowling and Richard Dawkins, have played in this context. As the discussion progresses, we delve deeper into the Kremlin’s and Putin’s role in driving the anti-trans hysteria that is increasingly pervasive in our culture. We hope you enjoy this episode, and stay tuned for our next one with Mohammed Nofal, where we will discuss the struggles of ex-Muslims in Egypt!
 
Check out and subscribe to our YouTube Channel!
https://www.youtube.com/@theemancipatedcitizenpodca7231
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
Feel free to contact us through Email
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
on X:
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis

Wednesday Aug 28, 2024

Join us on the latest episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast as we sit down with Gocha, a fierce Georgian activist, rallying against proposed legislation threatening the independence of NGOs in Georgia. Through a journey spanning from Georgia's tumultuous history with colonial powers to its modern struggles for sovereignty, Gocha shares firsthand accounts and personal insights. Explore the echoes of Soviet oppression, the tumultuous reign of Saakashvili, and the ongoing battle for human rights under Putin's shadow. With Gocha's impassioned plea for a future free from Russian meddling, this episode is a call to action for defenders of democracy everywhere.
 
Check out Gocha on X:
@fella_soldier
https://x.com/fella_soldier
 
Check out and subscribe to our YouTube Channel!
https://www.youtube.com/@theemancipatedcitizenpodca7231
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
Feel free to contact us through Email
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
on X:
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis

Wednesday May 08, 2024

In our latest installment of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast, we engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with Jimmy Bangash, a trailblazing psychotherapist, activist, and representative of the Council of Ex Muslims of Great Britain. With a poignant blend of personal experience and professional expertise, Jimmy sheds light on the often overlooked struggles faced by ex-Muslims and LGBTQ+ individuals within Muslim societies. From navigating the intricacies of dual identities to confronting the harsh realities of ostracism and discrimination, Jimmy's insights offer a powerful testament to the resilience of marginalized communities. From the psychological toll of cultural norms to the urgent need for inclusive mental health support, Jimmy's expertise illuminates the path towards greater empathy and solidarity. Tune in as we delve into the depths of mental health discourse, and emerge with a renewed commitment to fostering compassion and acceptance in our communities.
 
Jimmy will be speaking on The Celebrating Dissent Conference 2024, this coming August. Check it out here:
https://www.ex-muslim.org.uk/events/celebrating-dissent-oslo/
 
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
 
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
 
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
Check out
 
https://www.faithlesshijabi.org/
 
Feel free to contact us through Email
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
If you suffer Persecution and need help or advice: asn.advice@atheistalliance.org
 
on X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis 
 
Thank you for listening. Stay happy and healthy!
 
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
 
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
 
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
Check out Gotcha on X:
 
@soldier_fella
 
https://x.com/soldier_fella?t=iB1ox7Fxu3Kqvy7p9rfVZQ&s=09
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis 
 
Feel free to contact us through Email
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
 
If you suffer Persecution and need help or advice: asn.advice@atheistalliance.org 
 
 
Thank you for listening.
 
Stay happy and healthy!

Monday Mar 11, 2024

Join us for a conversation in Episode 21 of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast, as we sit down with Yalo, a courageous Russian activist who has dedicated their life to advocating for peace, human rights, and environmental justice. Despite facing exile due to their unwavering activism against the invasion of Ukraine and systemic corruption, Yalo continues to champion the cause of a more open and inclusive society. Through their tireless efforts in amplifying queer voices and and calling for peace, Yalo exemplifies the resilience and determination of those fighting for justice in the face of adversity. An important topic of our conversation was the tragic murder of Alexei Navalny, may he rest in peace. We hope you find this conversation as enlightening as we did.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
 
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
 
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
Check out Yalo on Instagram & TikTok:
 
https://instagram.com/ten8zla?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
 
https://www.tiktok.com/@yalomoss?_t=8hUnb0olpic&_r=1
 
Check out her writing on
 
https://telegra.ph/Gori-gori-moya-strana---Grigorij-Kuksin-o-pozharah-v-Sibiri-04-22
https://telegra.ph/Asa-04-15
https://doxajournal.ru/borderment 
https://doxajournal.ru/vetryakisdying
https://pointmedia.io/story/65362a61057c4089dc71e227
 
Feel free to contact us through Email
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
If you suffer Persecution and need help or advice: asn.advice@atheistalliance.org
 
on X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis 
 
Thank you for listening. Stay happy and healthy!

Monday Feb 26, 2024

Welcome back to the Emancipated Citizen Podcast! In this latest episode, we sit down with Zara Kay, a courageous women's rights advocate and Ex-Muslim from Tanzania. As the founder of Faithless Hijabi, Zara has been a guiding light for countless women navigating life beyond religion and the hijab. Join us as we delve into the depths of social injustices, from the harrowing realities of forced marriage to the urgent need to address anti-LGBT violence.
 
Throughout the conversation, Zara confronts the challenges and obstacles faced by women seeking autonomy and freedom in societies dominated by oppressive norms. Her insights shed light on the complexities of cultural and religious expectations, and the transformative power of breaking free from societal constraints.
 
As the discussion unfolds, we also touch upon the Israel-Palestine conflict and the hopelessly tribal manner in which the world is perceiving it. Join us for an enlightening conversation that not only exposes the injustices endured by marginalized communities but also inspires action and advocacy for a more equitable and inclusive world.
 
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
Follow Zara on Instagram and Facebook:
@FaithlessHijabi
https://www.instagram.com/faithlesshijabi?igsh=MTA0d2ZpYWxjaWJ0Zw==
https://www.facebook.com/faithlesshijabi
Check out her work on
https://www.faithlesshijabi.org/
Feel free to contact us through Email
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
If you suffer Persecution and need help or advice: asn.advice@atheistalliance.org
on X:
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis 
Thank you for listening. Stay happy and healthy!

Monday Feb 12, 2024

Welcome to another episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast where we host brave individuals fighting for freedom and individuality. This episode features Lilith Hanoum, a refugee from Pakistan currently residing in Germany, advocating tirelessly for the rights of the trans and LGBT community. Dive into Lilith's inspiring tale, as she navigates her identity against societal pressures, within a cultural and religious framework, and eventually opens up to the existence of a third gender.
Born in a Pakistani village in the 80s, Lilith faced a struggle with understanding her identity amid traditional gender roles. Her journey to self-discovery takes a pivotal turn when she engages with Pakistan's third gender community. Embracing her true self despite societal limitations, Lilith battles the odds and becomes an outspoken advocate for the trans and LGBT community in Pakistan.
Experience the moment Lilith identifies herself as a trans woman, sheds her confusion, embraces her identity, and faces the reality of living in a society with rigid gender expectations. This episode candidly captures her struggles, resilience, and the empowerment of self-acceptance. Besides the emotional insights of transitioning, the episode shares light on her move to Germany for higher education, the cultural shock, language barriers, and the feeling of acceptance within the new LGBTQ+ community.
Our guest divulges the professional and personal aspects of her life including her work with the queer European asylum network. She delves into the topic of intersectionality, asylum laws, protection of LGBTQ+ refugees, and the challenges within these complex bureaucratic processes. Not stopping just at personal empowerment, she outlines the importance of educating facilities, and training people working with LGBTQ+ asylum seekers.
The episode concludes with practical advice and encouragement for asylum seekers. It touches upon authenticity, solidarity, sensitive language interpretation, the German asylum procedure, and the importance of having a 'person of trust'. Shedding light on opportunities beyond asylum such as work permits or studying abroad, this episode aims to inspire all to fight for their rights and live a life of freedom and individuality.
 
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
 
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
 
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
 
Follow Lilith on Instagram and Facebook:
 
@punjabi_lilith_marilyn_manroe
 
https://www.instagram.com/punjabi_lilith_marilyn_manroe?igsh=MzZ6aWUwcTNvOXpk
 
https://www.facebook.com/lilith.sekhmet1
 
Check out her work on
 
https://queereuropeanasylum.org/?fbclid=IwAR23nYf7UhVMNmYhSktb-OYXYnkaKeg7FUBF6ZtA-HUNUrx4A6HFJZ1YrUc
 
Feel free to contact us through Email
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
If you suffer Persecution and need help or advice: asn.advice@atheistalliance.org
 
on X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis 
 
Thank you for listening. Stay happy and healthy!

Tuesday Jan 09, 2024

Celebrate the holidays with a twist! Our festive episode takes you on a riveting journey through the worlds of Starship Troopers, both in literary and cinematic realms.  Explore the dynamics of human rights in this futuristic saga, drawing parallels between the 1959 novel and the 1997 film.  Spoiler alert: it's not just about battling bugs; it's a thought-provoking adventure into the heart of freedom and democracy.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
Feel free to contact us through Email
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
on X:
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis
And check out Spaghetti Khozak's YT video on the same topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0VeD-WcWx0 
Thank you for listening and we wish you a happy and healthy year in 2024!

Monday Nov 13, 2023

In our latest episode, we embark on an exploration of the historical background surrounding the ongoing conflict in the middle east. Our journey unfolds as we delve into the complexities of the narratives, shedding light on the myths and propaganda perpetuated by both sides. From scrutinizing Instagram reels to dissecting other social media posts and distressing statements from Israeli officials, we aim to unravel the layers of misinformation that have contributed to the intensity of this war.
 
As we navigate through the tumultuous sea of information, we confront the harsh realities and biases that have shaped perceptions on a global scale. The episode serves as a critical examination of the role media plays in shaping public opinion during times of conflict. Our discourse goes beyond the headlines, providing a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted aspects of the conflict.
 
Towards the conclusion, we offer a glimpse into the future with an exciting announcement – a forthcoming episode featuring an Israeli activist against the occupation. This insightful discussion promises to provide a unique and personal angle, adding depth to our ongoing exploration of critical global issues.
 
Feel free to connect with us via email:
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
Find us on X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis
 
Stay tuned for this crucial episode, where we continue our commitment to delivering insights and perspectives of human rights activists. The complexities of the situation demand our attention, and we pledge to provide a thoughtful exploration that matters. Don't miss this essential discussion in our ongoing series.

Monday Oct 30, 2023

In this episode, we embark on a comprehensive journey into the complex web of repression in Saudi Arabia, with a spotlight on the suppression of social media activists. Our discussion navigates through the multifaceted layers of this issue, covering topics that range from the role of international figures like Trump, to the intricate involvement of the NSO Group, and Saudi Arabia's sophisticated whitewashing campaign.
 
We explore the outward moves towards liberalization, such as the new entertainment and tourism industries and sportswashing, which aims to present a more open image to the world. As we dissect the historical backdrop of repression in the region, we also investigate the impact of international PR campaigns, tourism, and newfound sports endeavors.
 
This episode is a deep dive into the dynamic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the international community, shedding light on the broader implications of these actions, including the risks to online anonymity, questions of espionage, and the consequences for international security and stability.
 
Feel free to contact us through Email:
 
Zac: zacaalrayyis@gmail.com
 
Ben: snowbenjamin2018@gmail.com
 
On X:
 
Zac: @ZacAAlrayyis
 
Stay tuned for our upcoming episode, where we delve into the pressing and ever-evolving conflict in Palestine and Israel. The complexities of this situation demand our attention, and we'll provide insights and perspectives that matter. Don't miss this essential discussion in our ongoing exploration of critical global issues.

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