ENGAGED TO A ZIONIST

What happens when the person you love turns out to be violent, racist, and determined to ruin you? This week, Algerian-American comedian Hedya joins Salma to share her shocking journey of falling for a man who seemed like home after years of family tension and cultural expectations, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of abuse. During the pandemic lockdown, he pushed her, dragged her out of the kitchen, and even locked her on the balcony. Yet two days later, she found herself baking him lasagna and chocolate cake, caught in the grip of trauma bonding. When he later sued her for custody of their dog and won, and began pursuing defamation lawsuits against her, Hedya was left financially drained but still fighting to reclaim her voice. In this raw conversation, Hedya speaks openly about reparenting herself, navigating the push and pull of being Arab-American, and learning to reconnect with her body and self-worth after years of shame. Salma reflects on her own experiences with domestic violence growing up, as well as the heartbreak and frustration of watching a friend remain in an abusive relationship, and why society still struggles to support survivors unless they fit the mold of a “perfect victim.” Together, they unpack the messy realities of faith, family, abuse, and survival and the courage it takes to finally take your power back. DISCLAIMER: TW Domestic Violence. If you’re experiencing abuse, please know there’s help available. In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE. In Canada, you can reach out to the NISA Helpline at 1-888-456-6472. CREDITS: Host & Creator: Salma Hindy Executive Producers: Salma Hindy Cinematographer: Patrick Samaha Studio: 30 Irving Studios Editor: Salma Hindy Artwork: Rana Omar © The Secret Sex Lives of Muslim Women, 2025