In this episode of the Sumud Podcast, First Amendment attorney Jenin Younes discusses the growing crackdown on speech about Palestine in the U.S., drawing on her experience as a Palestinian American and civil liberties advocate. She explores censorship, political pressure, and the risks of speaking out, especially after October 7th, while reflecting on her personal journey into public advocacy. From her legal challenges to anti-BDS laws to her work with the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Jenin highlights the broader threats to free expression and the urgent need to defend fundamental rights.

Jenin Younes is a free speech and civil liberties attorney and the National Legal Director of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC). A former New York City public defender and First Amendment litigator, she has spent her career challenging government overreach and defending the rights of individuals to speak freely. Previously, Jenin led high-profile cases involving censorship and government pressure on social media platforms, including litigation that reached the U.S. Supreme Court. She has also worked extensively on issues related to public health policy, civil liberties, and constitutional law. As a Palestinian American, Jenin brings both personal and professional insight to her current work, where she focuses on defending Arab American communities and combating the growing suppression of pro-Palestinian speech. Her advocacy sits at the intersection of law, politics, and human rights, making her a leading voice in the fight for free expression and justice.

In this conversation, we explore:
-Jenin Younes’ upbringing and connection to Palestine
-The impact of October 7th and the risks of speaking out
-The “Palestine exception” to free speech in the U.S.
-Government involvement in censorship of pro-Palestinian voices
-Her legal challenges to anti-BDS laws and civil liberties work with the ADC
-Media narratives and professional backlash
-Protecting free expression in an increasingly restrictive climate

Director: Dr. Ed Hasan | 2026