For journalists reporting on the recent developments in Syria, Northwestern University professors Shayna Silverstein and Wendy Pearlman are offering their insights. The collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime marks a significant moment in Syrian history, and these experts provide context to understand the implications.

Professor Shayna Silverstein, an authority on Syria's ethnic and religious diversity, has researched the cultural heritage of its people. She recently published a book titled “Fraught Balance: The Embodied Politics of Dabke Dance Music in Syria.” Silverstein states, “I think people do not understand the depth of shame and humiliation and fear that the Assad regime imposed. Let us trust that Syrians can make of their future what they want. Their creativity and know-how have been stifled by the regime for five decades. It will take time to learn how to not feel the grasp on one’s neck closing in. There are many in the social movement for Syrian freedom who work for a secular state and for support of Syria’s ethnic and religious groups in their multitudes. They will continue to put pressure and guide their society to its full potential.”

For interviews with Professor Silverstein, she can be contacted at Shayna.silverstein@northwestern.edu.

Wendy Pearlman, a political science professor at Northwestern University, is known for her work on Syrian diaspora narratives. Her publications include “The Home I Worked to Make: Voices from the New Syrian Diaspora” (2024) and “We Crossed a Bridge and it Trembled: Voices from Syria” (2017). Pearlman comments on the situation by saying, “In 2011, Syrians launched a nonviolent uprising against the brutal Assad regime, against the odds. Now rebels have toppled that regime in a 12-day military offensive, also against the odds. The path ahead will not be easy, but I bet on the Syrian people. After 54 years of dictatorship, Syrians will not allow another tyranny to come to power. Syrians want an accountable, democratic, stable, and prosperous country and have the talent and capacities to make that dream a reality. It is exhilarating to see them finally have the chance they deserve.”

Professor Pearlman is available for interviews via pearlman@northwestern.edu or through Stephanie Kulke at 847-491-4819.