Into Identity

Trauma turns to advocacy

By Mahad Olad • March 28, 2018

In other words, is there any value in reliving these issues, something that inevitably comes with speaking out?

Higher education needs a #MeToo moment

By Mahad Olad • January 22, 2018

We need to acknowledge that sexual misconduct thrives in academia. And sometimes, it’s institutionally sanctioned.

Allyship and Solidarity

By Mahad Olad • December 11, 2017

I’m just interrogating the usefulness of allyship as a framework to understanding oppression because the word “individual” is at the heart of solidarity.

Who counts as a black student?

By Mahad Olad • November 1, 2017

I find this intensely gross. I've heard of this line of thinking before, usually among the more openly racist types.

Patriotism and black rage

By Mahad Olad • October 11, 2017

To me, patriotism isn't much different from a religion. It's a belief in a less nebulous higher power, one that must similarly go unquestioned.

White fragility on college campuses

By Mahad Olad • September 24, 2017

Put differently, racism on college campuses is inextricably linked to the severe lack of meaningful dialogue about race-related issues in primary and secondary education.

CVE program targets Muslims

By Mahad Olad • September 11, 2017

CVE should focus on the integration and success of Muslim communities rather than their ability to identify terrorists.

White identity politics

By Mahad Olad • August 30, 2017

White supremacist claims of “subjugation” and “victimhood” are specious, silly and narcissistic.

Protecting students of color from harmful speech

By Mahad Olad • April 26, 2017

I’m gay, black and an immigrant, and believe me, I am more than capable of speaking up in defense of my values.

African vs. African American

By Mahad Olad • April 20, 2017

As an immigrant from Kenya born to Somali parents, I have seen firsthand the divide between African immigrants and African-Americans.

Why I left Islam

By Mahad Olad • April 13, 2017

Even in the secular West, where the freedom to change religions is recognized, ex-Muslims continue to fear for their lives.

First-generation students face distinctive challenges

By Mahad Olad • April 6, 2017

The decision to pursue postsecondary education outside of my home came with the price of leaving my family behind. It was emotional and tumultuous.