We have named our blog Thawra ثورة which, in Arabic, means “revolution.” Rather than simply offering a translation of the term, the blog launches with a collection of writings by four Palestinian thinkers—scholars, artists, and organizers—who responded to our invitation to consider the meaning and significance of thawra to Critical Zionism Studies and Palestinian liberation. This cluster of writing provides a model for future Thawra ثورة publications that will stage productive, timely, and relevant interventions in Critical Zionism Studies without, however, attempting to provide a comprehensive program or account of revolution.
These essays were collated over the course of the past year, prior to the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran and Lebanon, which began on February 28, 2026. We publish this cluster on Palestinian Land Day, March 30, 2026, to honor the history, presence, and resonance of anti-colonial struggles and resistance in Palestine, the SWANA region, and across the world. We honor the fighters, martyrs, rebels, and laborers for liberation, decolonization, and justice.
About the Editorial Collective
The Journal for the Critical Study of Zionism‘s and its affiliated blog Thawra ثورة ‘s Editorial Collective includes Eman Ghanayem, Terri Ginsberg, Robin Gabriel, Yulia Gilich, Mohamad Kadan, Jennifer Kelly, Zainab El-Mansi, C. Heike Schotten, and Melissa F. Weiner.
About the Contributors
– Eman Ghanayem
Eman Ghanayem is an Assistant Professor of English at the University of San Diego. Her work examines questions of displacement, settlement, and belonging through a framework of interconnected settler colonialisms and comparative Indigeneities.
– Nida Liftawiya
Nida Liftawiya is a Palestinian activist, multi-disciplinary artist, social worker and educator. A lifelong creative, her artistry is deeply rooted in the rich heritage, resilience, and beauty of her homeland. Through her work, she captures the spirit of her people, weaving together visual, literary, and performance arts to preserve cultural identity and advocate for social justice. She is dedicated to using her art as a means of resistance, healing, and storytelling — standing as a testament to the enduring strength of Palestinian identity.
– Jennifer Mogannam
Jennifer Mogannam is an Assistant Professor in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies at UC Santa Cruz. Her work centers Palestinian and Arab movements and refugees and is inspired by her participation in movement.
– Nimer Sultany
Nimer Sultany is Reader in Public Law. He holds a Doctor of Juridical Science degree from Harvard Law School, and was the recipient of the British Academy Fellowship and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at SUNY Buffalo Law School.
Preface
by Editorial Collective
