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Portrait of Saree Makdisi

Saree Makdisi

UCLA distinguished professor, author and cultural critic

Born
1964
Born in
Washington, D.C., United States
Read Saree’s story2 videosAsk about Saree

Why Saree is here

Saree Makdisi is renowned for his critical analysis of the Israeli occupation, particularly through his scholarly work that bridges literature, history, and politics to advocate for Palestinian rights and challenge narratives that justify the occupation.

Their story

Saree Makdisi is a Palestinian-American professor, author, and cultural critic whose work critically examines the Israeli occupation of Palestine. He is a professor of English and Comparative Literature at UCLA, and his publications have been influential in shaping academic and public discourse around the Palestinian cause. Makdisi is particularly known for his ability to connect the dots between historical colonial practices and contemporary Israeli policies, providing a deep intellectual foundation for the advocacy of Palestinian rights.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Saree’s path.

  1. 1964

    Born in Washington, D.C.

    Raised in a family deeply engaged with Middle Eastern issues, Makdisi's early life experiences in Lebanon and the United States shaped his intellectual pursuits.

  2. 1993

    Completed PhD at Duke University

    His academic journey culminated in a PhD that set the stage for his future work in English literature and postcolonial studies, particularly as they relate to the Middle East.

  3. 2008

    Published Palestine Inside Out

    An Everyday Occupation (2008): This book became a significant contribution to Palestinian studies, documenting the daily realities of life under occupation and bringing international attention to the ongoing struggles of Palestinians.

  4. 2003

    Joined UCLA as a Professor

    Makdisi began his tenure at UCLA, where he has influenced countless students and scholars through his teaching and writing on literature, culture, and the politics of Palestine.

  5. 2022

    Published Tolerance Is a Wasteland

    This recent work further solidifies his reputation as a leading intellectual voice in the critique of Israeli policies, exploring how narratives of tolerance are used to mask systemic oppression.

    Read more

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Critique of Israeli Occupation

    Makdisi's work rigorously critiques the Israeli occupation, framing it within broader colonial and imperial contexts, and challenging prevailing narratives that justify the occupation.

    Watch

  2. Advocacy Through Literature

    By connecting literary analysis with political activism, Makdisi has provided a unique perspective on how literature can inform and influence the struggle for Palestinian rights.

  3. Influential Publications on Palestine

    His books, particularly Palestine Inside Out and Tolerance Is a Wasteland, have become essential readings for understanding the complexities of the Israeli occupation of Palestine from a critical standpoint.

  4. Public Speaking and Advocacy

    Makdisi has been an active public speaker, using various platforms to advocate for Palestinian rights, including prestigious academic institutions and public forums.

    Watch

  5. Educational Impact

    As a professor, Makdisi has mentored numerous students and scholars, ensuring that the next generation of academics is equipped with the tools to critically engage with the Palestinian struggle.

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Watch & listen

Saree in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Critique of Israeli Occupation↗

  • 02Public Speaking and Advocacy↗

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