Disability and the Israeli Occupation: Reflections from an American Christian Living in Palestine

In this episode, Jen has a conversation with Kevin Vollrath, an American Christian who has spends time with Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem. Kevin shares about his experiences in the West Bank for the past three years and how he’s seen violence against Palestinians rise since October 7th, 2023. They also discuss disability in the context of the Israeli occupation, and unpack the acute threats and violence wielded against Palestinians living in refugee camps in the West Bank. Kevin also reflects on how his experiences in Palestine have shaped his faith and the calling he feels to continue bearing witness to the struggles of Palestinian communities. 

Kevin Vollrath is a PhD Candidate at Princeton Theological Seminary in Religion and Society. His dissertation research focused on experiences of disability under occupation in Bethlehem. Based in Israel/Palestine for the past three years, has also worked in advocacy and education.

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Resources

"Crowded West Bank refugee camp is the most tear-gassed place in the world," Mondoweiss

The Right to Maim: Debility, Capacity, Disability, Jasbir Puar