West Asian Identity, U.S and Collective West Culture

Freedom International Livestream

On Thursday, Oct 24, 2024 @ 12:00 PM EST

Featured Guest: Dr. Reza John Vedadi

Topic: Beyond the Screen: West Asian Identity, U.S and Collective West Culture.

Guest Bio/Info:

Dr Reza John Vedadi has spent the past 12 years directing, producing, and filming over 50 documentaries on West Asian and Muslim identity and culture. He began his academic journey with a degree in Media Studies from London Guildhall University, followed by master’s degrees in Film Production at London Metropolitan University and Islamic Studies at Middlesex University. In 2023, he earned a PhD from Loughborough University London, specialising in communication, politics, and culture.
Dr Vedadi's research explores the intersection of socio-political dynamics and the representation of West Asian and Muslim identity in Hollywood, as well as US culture and foreign policy. Alongside his filmmaking career, he is an active academic, presenting papers at various international conferences. He also researches and writes about the complex relationship between the film industry, international relations, and the decolonial framework, demonstrating his commitment to enriching understanding in these areas.

What we Discussed:

- Who is Dr. Reza John Vedadi ( 1 min)

- Defining the West Asian Identity (3:30 mins)

- Colonization has not ended ( 8 mins)

- Was Iran really like Europe in the 1970's (12:30 mins)

- There was no freedom in Iran (17:50 mins)

- People voted for an Islamic republic (21 mins)

- Nelson Mandela appreciated Iran (26 mins)

- Thoughts on Benjamin Netanyahu Prime Minister of Israel getting a standing ovation in congress (29:30 mins)

- The corruption of Media (40 mins)

- Saudi Arabia & Iran (45 mins)

- Why has Saudi Arabia influence on other countries (57 mins)