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Changing Hate to Hope: Conversations from the Front Lines of Extremism
Date and time
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
In-person:
Event begins at 7 pm

The JCC Greater Boston series, Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations, presented this powerful and hopeful conversation at a time when antisemitism is on the rise and fear of the “other” is heightened. Arno Michaelis, a former Neo-Nazi and author of "My Life After Hate," and Mubin Shaikh, a former jihadist supporter turned counterterrorism expert share their journeys from radicalization to redemption. They reflect on their transformations, the beliefs that once fueled their hatred, and the turning points that led them to turn their lives around and be agents of change.

Together in conversation with Boston-based clinical psychologist, trauma and resilience expert Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, they offer an honest and compassionate exploration of how hate develops, how people change, and how meaningful connections can emerge even in painful and traumatic times.

A white man looks off camera wearing a green t-shirt with blonde hair and stubble.
Arno Michaelis
From the age of 17 Arno Michaelis was deeply involved in the white power movement. He was a founding member of what became the largest racist skinhead organization in the world, a reverend of self-declared Racial Holy War, and lead singer of the race-metal band Centurion, selling over 20,000 CDs to racists round the world.
A bald man with a thin beard speaks while wearing a red sweater
Mubin Shaikh
Mubinoddin "Mubin" Shaikh is a Canadian former security intelligence and counter-terrorism operative, who was at one time a jihadist extremist himself. He rose to prominence in his role as a confidential human source in the Toronto 18 case in 2006.
A woman with shoulder-length hair sits in a chair posing for the camera in a red blazer and black shirt
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern is a clinical psychologist, advocate, and speaker specializing in trauma and recovery. She helps individuals, families, and communities navigate the impact of trauma with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care.
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