Interviews with organizers and activists from Ohio State, Columbus, and Central Ohio. Exploring personal journeys and reflections on solidarity, community, and building power in the in the heartland.
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Kristen Guptill-Godfrey (they/them) is a revolutionary socialist and organizer currently living in Arizona on unceded Tohono O’odham [The-ha-naw Awe-thumb] and Yoeme [YOH eh-me] ancestral and traditional lands. Kristen’s mom was born and raised in Columbus, and although Kristen moved a lot growing up, they consider Columbus home. They got the opportunity to live in Columbus from 2016-2018, and during that time they became a revolutionary socialist and joined their first political home. Kristen also worked as a social worker and supported queer and trans young people. They are a member of Tempe
Aramis Sundiata is a movement strategist, organizer, and educator serving as the Executive Director of the People’s Justice Project (PJP). Aramis has spent over a decade fighting to overturn colonial violence and build political power rooted in Black liberation. With a background in African Studies from The Ohio State University, Aramis has cultivated a deep commitment to global justice, decolonization, and the self-determination of African and colonized peoples in the US. Founded in the wake of state-sanctioned violence that claimed the lives of countless people in Ohio and US, PJP connects d
Ajmeri Hoque is a licensed attorney in Ohio and New York with a focus on criminal defense, juvenile defense, and guardian ad litem work. She brings over 15 years of legal experience to her practice. Originally from Bangladesh, Ajmeri moved with her family to the United States as a toddler and has since dedicated her career to serving marginalized communities in Central Ohio. She graduated from Ohio State with a major in political science in 2006. Throughout her career, Ajmeri has noted that folks from lower-income and underserved communities are the largest demographic she encounters in Court.
Liliana Rivera Baiman has worked to build progressive movements alongside workers and working families for over 18 years. Born in rural San Luis Potosí, Mexico, she immigrated to the U.S. as a child. She has spent the totality of her career fighting for immigrant and worker justice, primarily as a union organizer and most recently around tenant union organizer. In 2019 as a new mother, Liliana ran for Columbus City Council. A highlight of her campaign platform was the creation of truly affordable housing for working families, maintaining a support network for tenants, and putting an end to unn
Mazen Rasoul, Esq., is a Palestinian-American attorney based in Columbus, Ohio, with a rich background in law, community service, and advocacy. Born in Youngstown, Ohio in 1990, Mazen’s family moved to Ramallah, West Bank, in 1993. He returned to Columbus in 2008, receiving a B.A. in Political Science at The Ohio State University, and J.D. from Capital University Law School in 2015. In 2016, Mazen founded Rasoul Law Office, specializing in Immigration Law, Small Business and Contracts, and other legal areas. He is deeply involved in the Immigrant and New American community in Central Ohio, ser
James Hayes is a seasoned organizer and leader in the Ohio social movement landscape, with over a decade of experience. He is currently the codirector of Ohio Voice, where he works tirelessly to drive social and political initiatives that uplift marginalized communities. In 2012, James co-founded the Ohio Student Association, a platform that quickly gained recognition for its impactful campaigns. For four years, he served as an organizer and director, fostering a vibrant community of young activists dedicated to positive change across Ohio. Based in Columbus, Ohio, James resides with his wife
“Together We Rise” host Dr. Pranav Jani discusses the goals of the podcast, the concept of “history from below” and the hard work of solidarity. Dr. Jani is an associate professor of English at Ohio State and a longtime social justice organizer. More about Dr. Jani on the podcast home page or the about tab of his website: pranavjani.com. Links and references Maya Angelou’s poem, “Still I Rise” AAUP-OSU statement on Ohio State policies (August 2025) A useful definition of “history from below” Khury Peterson-Smith and brian bean on solidarity versus allyship
