| Reda Hashem | |
|---|---|
| |
| Status: | Deceased |
| Nationality: |  American
|
| Profession: | CUNY School of Law professor |
| Played by: | Patrick Sabongui |
| Season(s): | 6 |
| First episode: | "Fair Game" |
| Last episode: | "Imminent Risk" |
Reda Hashem advocates for the rights of Muslim Americans in Season 6 of "Homeland." He works closely with Carrie Mathison.
Biography[]
Reda Hashem works with Carrie Mathison in an organization that advocates for the rights of Muslim Americans. One day Otto Düring comes by to find out about the work there. A short time later, Reda and Carrie are on their way to provide legal advice to a prisoner named Sekou Bah after he was arrested by the FBI on charges of being involved in terrorist activities.
The next day, Reda visits Sekou again with Carrie and explains to him that he must be honest with them so that they can properly defend him. Only after he repeatedly confirms that their conversation is confidential does Sekou tell us more about the loan he got and the people behind it. He then visits Sekou's family with Carrie and tells them what to do next. When they leave again, Sekou's sister Simone reveals that she was once with his friend Saad Mahsud. When Carrie later receives new information about Saad from Max, he is just as surprised as she is that he is probably an FBI informant. He then immediately requests a hearing before a judge. He doesn't get Sekou released or allowed to speak to Saad, but the other side is forced to offer a settlement: seven years in prison for Sekou Bah. In the subsequent conversation with Sekou things escalate, which is why they are left with fewer and fewer options. Reda is also worried that Carrie is trying to contact Saad against the orders of the FBI and the court.
The next day, Reda receives a call from FBI agent Ray Conlin in which he learns that Carrie has contacted Saad. He then calls her immediately and she rushes to his office. In the meantime, the public prosecutor's office has come forward and withdrawn Sekou's settlement offer. Reda blames Carrie's behavior and tells her that the collaboration no longer works. Then he wants to go to Sekou and tell him what happened. But Carrie goes in his place.
Shortly afterwards, Reda is present at Sekou's release from prison and protects him from curious reporters, whose questions he blocks with a short statement. In the car, Carrie Sekou explains that he would not speak to the press, to which Reda adds that the prosecutor's explanation was that there was not enough evidence against him. They then take Sekou home, where a surprise party awaits him. Reda takes the chance to ask Carrie how she made sure Sekou was released again. He's worried that there might be repercussions, but Carrie assures him that everything is fine. Then Reda comments that they should file a civil lawsuit on Sekou's behalf because the state unjustly arrested him, but Carrie says that it's enough that he won't go to prison for 15 years and they should let the matter rest . Reda agrees not to follow up this time, but he can no longer work with Carrie like this. He doesn't like her constant going it alone, but she promises improvement. As Carrie leaves, Reda watches through the window as she gets into a black SUV escorted by the Secret Service. He later calls Carrie to inform her about Sekou's latest video, in which he exposes Saad as an FBI informant.
On the morning of the bombing, Reda learns from the FBI that Sekou was driving the vehicle that exploded and immediately informs Carrie. She is supposed to go to Sekou's family and protect them during questioning by the FBI.
Carrie asks Reda for help when Franny is taken away from her by child welfare services. He tries to calm Carrie down and assures Franny that she's fine. The court date is scheduled for the next afternoon. But during the trial, details emerge that show that Franny could be in danger with Carrie. Until the judge has a psychological report for Carrie, Fanny remains in the care of the youth welfare office.
Character profile[]
Reda Hashem: A Beacon of Justice in Homeland's Shadowy WorldIn the intricate web of clandestine operations, high-stakes drama, and moral ambiguity that defines Showtime's critically acclaimed series, Homeland, one character stands out as a beacon of justice and moral fortitude - Reda Hashem. As a lawyer dedicated to defending individuals accused of terrorism, Reda embodies the principles of due process, civil liberties, and the idea that everyone, regardless of their alleged crimes, deserves a fair representation.
Introduced in season 6, Reda quickly becomes a crucial ally for our protagonist, Carrie Mathison, as she unravels a complex conspiracy threatening national security. While Carrie primarily operates within the realm of espionage and intelligence, Reda provides the counterbalance by navigating the treacherous waters of the legal system. His role as a passionate advocate for the accused serves as a reminder that even those society deems guilty deserve a chance to assert their innocence and have their rights protected.
One of the standout aspects of Reda's character is his unwavering commitment to principles. While the world around him often succumbs to knee-jerk reactions, prejudice, and fear, Reda remains a steadfast believer in the fundamental values enshrined within the legal system. He neither indulges in the popular narrative nor allows himself to be swayed by public sentiment. Instead, he meticulously investigates the evidence, challenges the prosecution's claims, and ensures that due process is upheld to the highest standard.
Reda's involvement with Carrie puts him at the center of a conflict between his duty to his clients and his loyalty to his country. He finds himself in a moral conundrum where he must navigate the gray zones of the law and make difficult decisions that have far-reaching consequences. It is in these moments that Reda shines the brightest, exemplifying the struggle between personal convictions and the greater good.
While Reda's characterization is deeply rooted within the dramatic framework of Homeland, it also evokes broader questions about the nature of justice, the complexities of defending accused terrorists, and the delicate balance between national security and civil liberties. Reda's dilemmas serve as a microcosm of the societal and ethical debates that have plagued nations amidst the global war on terror.
From a theoretical perspective, Reda's character resonates with key ideas from legal philosophy and human rights discourse. One such concept is the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of any fair legal system. Reda embodies this principle by never assuming guilt without sufficient evidence and tirelessly fighting for his clients' rights. His dedication to due process and the rule of law is a testament to the enduring relevance of these principles, even in the face of extraordinary circumstances.
Reda's role as a defender of accused terrorists also raises important questions about the nature of terrorism itself. By humanizing those who stand accused, Reda challenges the notion of categorizing individuals into simple moral binaries. He reminds the viewers that behind every accusation lies a complex story, one that necessitates a deeper understanding of the motivations, circumstances, and systemic factors that influence the paths individuals choose. By engaging with the humanity of the accused, Reda forces us to question the simplistic narratives surrounding terrorism and encourages empathy and introspection.
Homeland's portrayal of Reda Hashem is a powerful and nuanced exploration of the tensions between security and civil liberties, the demanding nature of legal defense, and the quest for justice in an increasingly complex world. While the show's fast-paced narrative often leaves little room for lengthy philosophical meditations, Reda's character stands as a symbol of hope and a constant reminder that the pursuit of justice requires unwavering dedication and an unyielding belief in our legal system's potential for fairness and equality.
In conclusion, Reda Hashem's character in Homeland serves as an exemplar of the legal profession's indispensable role in defending the accused and upholding the principles of justice. His integrity, unwavering commitment, and unwavering belief in due process mark him as a beacon of hope in a world gripped by fear and uncertainty. Reda's presence not only adds depth to the show's narrative but also invites viewers to engage with complex ethical questions surrounding terrorism, civil liberties, and the preservation of a just society. [x]
Review[]
Sabongui, a Canadian-born actor of Egyptian descent, says “Homeland” was already beginning to atone for its portrayal of Muslims in Season 5.
“I think [Carrie and Reda] have a very strong case,” he says. “A lot of people are not supportive of the government’s national security apparatus. Obviously, Sekou’s a little more emphatic in his points, but the target of his attacks is the legal system. What are our civil liberties To what extent do we have free speech?” - By Robert Rorke
Behind the Scenes[]
Appearances[]
| Season 6 | ||||
| Fair Game | The Man in the Basement | The Covenant | A Flash of Light | Casus Belli |
| "The Return" | Imminent Risk | "Alt. Truth" | "Sock Puppets" | "The Flag House" |
| "R for Romeo" | "America First" | |||