In an insightful episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D, alongside activist Layidua Salazar, unraveled the complex issue of immigration, focusing on the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants in the U.S. They delved into racial profiling, discrimination, and the stark realities of potential mass deportations, along with their depiction in the media.
The dialogue further explored the distinctions between undocumented immigrants and refugees in terms of eligibility for social services and the impact of U.S. interventions in Latin America. Layidua, who is undocumented, voiced her concerns about a Supreme Court ruling that allows police to detain suspected undocumented immigrants, drawing parallels to “Stop and Frisk” policies. The pair addressed the difficulties of lacking a unifying identification document and the consequences of U.S. actions in Latin America, highlighting the critical need for activism and the precarious situation of outspoken immigrants.
Later in the show, Davey D engaged in a profound discussion with Zahra Billoo, Executive Director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in the San Francisco Bay Area (CAIR-SFBA). They tackled the pressing issues facing the Muslim community in the United States amid the Gaza conflict, shedding light on the underreported rise in Islamophobia in contrast to the recent focus on antisemitism. The conversation examined the effects of Islamophobia, including aggression towards Muslims, censorship of literature, and the implications of repealing the Muslim ban under the Biden Administration.
They also discussed the consequences of visa expiration, the Democratic Party’s unwavering support for Israel, and the unifying Palestinian solidarity movement across various religious groups. The dialogue highlighted the alarming targeting of activists, political, and religious minorities by law enforcement and the FBI, emphasizing the urgent need for a way forward.
Zahra critiqued the Biden administration’s policy on Palestine, highlighting the discrepancy between appointing Muslim and Arab staff and taking meaningful actions to support Palestine. The discussion also reflected on the broad support for a ceasefire among the American public, despite Congress’s indifference.
Lastly, the pair discussed the Holy Month of Ramadan and the contradictions of politicians who have yet to call for a permanent ceasefire while simultaneously trying to win favor with Muslim leaders following the genocide in Gaza. Zahra noted that many Muslim leaders have rejected invitations to the White House or other political gatherings celebrating Ramadan.
This engaging conversation with Davey D and Zahra Billoo illuminates the intricacies of Islamophobia, the political dynamics concerning Palestine, and the resilient spirit of hope within the Muslim and broader activist communities.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.
