Anarchism, Zapatismo, and the Transformative Impact of Palestine Solidarity Work with Joshua Stephens (Ep 156)

Hear how direct action, punk culture, and organizing abroad shaped his understanding of power, politics, and change. ============================ Get the Monday Minute my weekly email with 3 personal recs for travel, culture, and living beyond borders you can read in 60 seconds. ============================ ON THIS EPISODE Joshua Stephens shares the story of a non-violent direct action he was involved with as part of the “Free Burma” coalition in Washington, DC, that got him arrested at the Myanmar embassy and subsequently labeled a “terrorist in the pay of the CIA and the Vatican” in the official paper of the Myanmar military junta.  Matt and Joshua then talk about how they met doing activist work in the early 2000s, mostly in the Palestinian solidarity organization SUSTAIN, and reflect on the lasting impact that the experience and people had on them.  Joshua then opens up about his upbringing, the impact of moving between the US, Bermuda and Sicily, and reflects on how stand-up comedy, skateboarding, straight edge culture and punk rock music influenced the development of his politics and worldview.  He also explains Anarchism as a political practice and organizing framework, and shares historical examples of its implementation from revolutionary Barcelona in the 1930s to present day Rojava.  Joshua also talks about the Zapatista movement, and how his experience with Zapatismo in Chiapas, Mexico influenced him significantly.  And, finally, he reflects on his experience participating in the International Solidarity Movement (ISM) in Palestine, and how that solidarity work on the ground in Palestine was so transformative for him. → Full show notes with direct links to everything discussed are available here. ============================ FIND YOUR NEXT EPISODE Explore The Maverick Show Starter Packs — some of my favorite conversations curated by theme so you can easily find the episodes that match your interests. ============================ FREE RESOURCES FOR YOU See my Top 10 Travel Apps See my Top 10 Books that Shaped the Way I Travel See my 7 Keys For Building A Remote Business (Even in a space that’s not traditionally virtual) Watch my Video Training on Stylish Minimalist Packing so you can join #TeamCarryOn See the Travel Gear I Use and Recommend See How I Produce The Maverick Show Podcast (The equipment, services & vendors I use) ============================ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Follow The Maverick Show on Instagram and DM Matt to continue the conversation Please leave a rating and review — it really helps the show and I read each one personally Support the show by buying me a coffee — espressos help me produce significantly better podcast episodes!