Description
Book SynopsisHuda Mukbil shares her experiences as a Black Arab-Canadian Muslim intelligence officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. Her dazzling account reveals how racism, misogyny, and Islamophobia undermine not only individuals, but institutions and the national interest – and how addressing this can tackle populism and misinformation.
Trade Review“A gripping, illuminating account of an accomplished intelligence officer’s battle against systemic discrimination at Canada’s spy service. Mukbil pulls aside the curtain and shows us the many roadblocks faced by racialized professionals. Rich in detail, this is an extraordinary and highly readable book.” Robert Fife, Globe and Mail bureau chief, Ottawa
“Mukbil’s captivating memoir shows that love for one’s country must be sutured with the courage to speak the truth: a bravery both required and despised in Canadian national intelligence circles. She deftly navigates the complicated landscape of belonging in Canada and gives a defiant and resilient voice to the psychological toll of systemic racism.” Debra Thompson, author of The Long Road Home
"Mukbil is a trailblazer in a secret world often dominated by men. Her powerful story combines an invaluable contribution to counterterrorism in Canada and Britain with a never-before-seen picture of spy agencies. It is utterly absorbing." Richard Kerbaj, author of The Secret History of the Five Eyes
“After years of work in one of the country’s most opaque institutions, Mukbil offers the kind of candid prose on race, identity, and inclusion that’s rare to find on Canadian bookshelves. Straightforward and courageous, Agent of Change artfully unravels our deepest misconceptions about belonging in our country – and our world.” Erica Lenti, deputy editor, features, at Chatelaine
