Session Announcement: Empowering American Voters to Advocate for Palestinian Human Rights

Washington, D.C. | adc.org | June 1, 2023 – We are thrilled to announce a captivating session that will be added to the upcoming ADC National Convention program. The convention is set to occur from June 16th to the 18th, 2023, and will include an engaging session called Shifting Perspectives: Empowering American Voters to Advocate for Palestinian Human Rights. This session will be held on Sunday, June 18th, as a highlight of the Palestine Day Brunch.

Over the past few years, the escalation of Israeli military aggression has had severe repercussions for Palestinian human rights. Unfortunately, there is a striking lack of awareness and consciousness among the American public regarding these consequences. The prevailing attitudes of American voters towards Palestinian human rights have played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape enabling these actions.

This session aims to explore strategies and engage in productive dialogue on how to change these prevailing attitudes and foster greater empathy, understanding, and support for Palestinian human rights among American voters.

Changing attitudes through public advocacy campaigns requires a deliberate, nuanced examination of the language used to impact public opinion. During this session, we will discuss the results of an extensive polling and qualitative research study examining American attitudes towards Palestinians, as well as some of the themes and narratives that were most impactful.  We will discuss the themes and narratives that have proven most impactful in reshaping public opinion.

The session will feature Mohammed (Mo) Maraqa, Data Analytics Executive and Diala Qasem, Senior Legislative Advisor on Capitol Hill.

The ADC National Convention will be held from June 16th to the 18th, 2023, Shifting Perspectives: Empowering American Voters to Support Palestinian Human Rights on June 18th. Early Bird Registration rates are available for Convention packages which include access to all events, luncheons, dinners, panels, and receptions. Click here to register now!

Speaker Bios:

Mohammed (Mo) Maraqa is an experienced and passionate data analytics executive specializing in empowering communications and nonprofit organizations through the strategic use of data. With nearly 25 years of expertise in crafting innovative data-driven solutions, Mo is dedicated to leveraging the power of data to revolutionize communication strategies and create positive change in communities. His profound understanding of data analytics, coupled with his commitment to social impact, positions him as a trusted partner for organizations seeking to maximize their impact, engage audiences, and advance their missions through data-driven insights.

Mo has an extensive track record of helping nonprofits optimize fundraising efforts, identify potential donors, and measure program impact by uncovering valuable insights from complex datasets. In addition, he has guided communications organizations in enhancing their messaging and audience targeting, enabling them to establish more meaningful connections with stakeholders. Mo’s expertise lies in developing comprehensive data strategies that align with the unique goals and values of communications and nonprofit organizations. He is a recognized thought leader in the field, actively sharing his insights at industry conferences and contributing to publications focused on data analytics for communications and nonprofits. Mo holds a bachelor’s degree in Information Science and a master’s degree in Marketing Research, both from the University of Texas.

Diala Qasem, currently serves as a Senior Legislative Advisor on Capitol Hill for Rep. Andre’ Carson; her policy portfolio includes Middle East affairs, Muslim issues, immigration, health, education, and social safety net programs. Diala was most recently the staff lead on the Congressional call for a U.S. investigation into the killing of Palestinian American Journalist, Shireen Abu-Akleh. Qasem formerly served in roles for Senator Amy Klobuchar and Rep. James Clyburn before joining Rep. Carson’s team in 2019. Qasem is a founder and former president of the Congressional Middle Eastern and North African Staff Association (MENASA), a bi-cameral and bi-partisan official organization.

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