Remi Kanazi, a Palestinian poet, writer, and social activist based in New York, is once again visiting the Champaign-Urbana area. Kanazi is known for his politically charged and evocative poems, as well as for his work as an editor of Poets for Palestine. His work has also been mentioned in various news outlets, including BBC Radio and GRITtv.
Kanazi’s accomplishments extend well beyond creating literature. Not only is he on the committee for the U.S. Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (USACBI), but he has also commandeered writing workshops in America and overseas — efforts that have aided in influencing the works of young and old writers alike.
Last year, Kanazi performed his spoken word pieces a the Illini Union Courtyard Café, which was a fairly open venue sponsored by the Illini Union, the Arab Student Association, and the Center for South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (CSAMES). This year, however, the Students for Justice in Palestine Poetry Night is featuring his performance at Allen Hall’s Main Lounge (Room 155), Monday, February 18, from 7:00–9:30 p.m.
For those not familiar with campus, Allen Hall is located at 1005 West Gregory Drive in Urbana, across from CRCE. In order to gain access to the building, one must typically have an I-card to swipe in. However, outside audiences may call the front desk for assistance if the doors are locked at the time of the event. The number is (217) 333-1100.