Collapse of Syria's Bashar al-Assad administration

For journalists covering the breaking news out of Syria regarding the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad's regime, Northwestern School of Communication professor Shayna Silverstein and Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences political science professor Wendy Pearlman are available for comment.

Professor Silverstein is an expert on ethnic and religious diversity/difference in Syria and has conducted research on cultural heritage and traditions of the Syrian people, and is the author of a new book on Syrian cultural politics titled “Fraught Balance: The Embodied Politics of Dabke Dance Music in Syria.”. 

Quote from Professor Silverstein
“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.” 

To schedule an interview, reach out to Professor Silverstein directly at Shayna.silverstein@northwestern.edu  

Wendy Pearlman is a professor of political science and Jane Long Professor of Arts and Sciences at Northwestern University. She is the author of several books including “The Home I Worked to Make: Voices from the New Syrian Diaspora” (Liveright 2024) and “We Crossed a Bridge and it Trembled: Voices form Syria” (Harper Collins, 2017).

Quote from Professor Pearlman
“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.”

She can be reached at pearlman@northwestern.edu or by contacting Stephanie Kulke at 847-491-4819.