They Make a Difference

About the Book

They Make a Difference: Men Say NO contains a selection of nine interviews conducted by journalist Hada Sarhan during the tumultuous years following the 2003 occupation of Iraq. Each of the nine men she interviews rejects, in part or in whole, the Western orthodoxy regarding the Palestinian conflict and the war in Iraq. Their thoughts and words demonstrate that “no” is not an expression of resignation, but rather an act of resistance to injustice. The interview subjects come from all over of the world and include journalists, novelists, and politicians. Although their backgrounds are quite different, the nine men are connected by a common thread: each is either a decision maker or contributes, through media or cultural clout, to setting the agenda for those in charge of policy choices. By saying no—to violence, war, and genocide—they are saying “yes” to peace and humanity. Instead of fanning the flames of division and hatred, these men are committed to fostering a dialogue between East and West based on mutual respect and understanding.

About the Author

Hada Sarhan is a columnist and head of the cultural and international news department at Al Arab Al Yaw, a daily newspaper based out of Amman, Jordan. She has also worked as a consultant, translator, and researcher for a variety of international media outlets. She is the author of Women Say NO, as well as two books written in Arabic.