WEBINAR (04/16/26): Days of Love and Rage: A Story of Ordinary People Forging a Revolution

Key Takeaways

• Anand Gopal discusses his book on Syrian grassroots revolution.
• Webinar runs April 16, 10‑11:30 am AZ (12‑1:30 pm ET).
• Co‑hosted by ASU’s Center for Work and Democracy and partners.
• Book examines ordinary Syrians’ fight against authoritarianism and inequality.
• Event includes interview, Q&A, and free Zoom registration.

Pulse Analysis

The Syrian uprising that began fifteen years ago in a modest northern city remains a touchstone for scholars of democratization. Gopal’s narrative goes beyond battlefield statistics, focusing on the lived experiences of citizens who risked everything for a chance at self‑governance. By weaving personal anecdotes with macro‑political analysis, the book underscores how economic disparity and state repression can ignite collective action, a pattern echoed in recent movements across the globe.

For policymakers and NGOs, the webinar offers actionable insights into the conditions that sustain or undermine popular revolts. Gopal’s emphasis on education, community solidarity, and the perils of debt highlights the importance of targeted economic reforms and inclusive political institutions. Attendees can translate these lessons into strategies that bolster civil society resilience in fragile states, reducing the appeal of extremist alternatives.

Beyond immediate policy relevance, the discussion enriches academic discourse on authoritarianism and civic agency. Gopal’s interdisciplinary approach—melding journalism, history, and political science—provides a template for future research on grassroots revolutions. The event, backed by ASU’s Center for Work and Democracy and related institutes, also showcases the role of universities as conveners of critical dialogue, bridging scholarly work with public engagement. Participants leave with a deeper appreciation of how ordinary people, driven by love and rage, can reshape political landscapes.