Wassim Kanaan

Chair for NJ Chapter of American Muslims for Palestine | American Muslims for Palestine

Pronouns: He/Him

Wassim Kanaan is a grass-roots organizer who serves as the Chair for the New Jersey Chapter of American Muslims for Palestine (AMP). With AMP, Wassim has organized and helped launch different campaigns including building power district by district. Wassim focuses on direct advocacy and working with the community and educates on anti-Palestinian racism. He is dedicated to uplifting all struggles for justice, and constantly works to better understand the interconnections of oppressive systems. Wassim currently holds a Master’s degree in Legal Studies from the Northeastern University School of Law, and practices legal investigations as a specialty.

Presentations from Facing Race 2024

Fighting Anti-Palestinian Racism: A guide for Advancing Equity and Transforming institutions of Education and Government

Anti-Palestinian racism is at an all time high but many can not recognize it when they see it. Learn the ways that Anti-Palestinian Racism manifests in our institutions and is normalized structurally between institutions impacting not only Palestinians, but also Arabs, Muslims, and others. In order to effectively dismantle racism, it’s important to recognize it, but then work towards intentionally dismantling it. This breakout session will go over roots in Islamophobia and the unique ways anti-Palestinian racism manifests and what people in Government (including all institutions) and in the public can work together to dismantle it. Learn lessons from local organizers in NJ who are organizing to build power for inclusive communities for everyone.

Speakers: Wassim Kanaan, Dr. Maha Hilal, Asma Elhuni