#129 Embodying Anti-Zionism: Wendy Elisheva Somerson

Wendy Elisheva Somerson (wes) is a non-binary Jewish somatic healer, writer, visual artist, and activist who helped found the Seattle chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace. They facilitate Ruach, body-based Jewish healing groups held in an anti-Zionist, anti-racist, and feminist framework. As part of a movement of anti-Zionist Jews, they support Jewish healing from historical trauma and promote a liberatory future for Judaism and Jewishness beyond Zionism that includes a free Palestine. Today on the show we discuss their new book An Anti-Zionist Path to Embodied Jewish Healing: Somatic Practices to Heal Historical Wounds, Unlearn Oppression, and Create a Liberated World to Come. https://wendysomerson.net/ Topics 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:09 Discussing the Book: An Anti-Zionist Path to Embodied Jewish Healing01:36 Genocide in Palestine: Context and Impact04:07 Zionism and Jewish Historical Trauma06:07 Embodied Jewish Healing: Concepts and Practices09:26 Technology and Disembodiment10:32 Anti-Zionism as a Path to Healing16:12 Spiritual and Ethical Responsibilities26:42 Activism and Jewish Faith30:05 Resources and Community for Anti-Zionism31:46 Somatic Healing Practices36:58 Hope and Solidarity for the Future40:07 Conclusion and Farewell Support the mission of SAND and the production of this podcast by becoming a SAND Member Join SAND June 3–9 for the FREE global film premiere of The Eternal Song and the 7-day online gathering with Indigenous voices