SXU Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
Saint Xavier University (SXU) proudly celebrates Arab American Heritage Month during April. The campus community joins together for a variety of activities and conversations to reflect on the diverse group of people who make up the nation's Middle Eastern population and the many contributions Arab Americans have made to the United States.
"Arab American Heritage Month is a celebration of the rich culture, resilience and contributions that have woven Arab Americans into the fabric of this nation. It's a time to honor our community's heritage -- the warmth of our hospitality, the generosity of our tables, and the love that's poured into every cup of tea (shai) and cardamom coffee. As we recognize the impact of Arab Americans on our nation's diversity and progress, let's also embrace the values that make us thrive: compassion, community and a radical welcome that extends to everyone," said Rola Othman, Ed.D., director of client services.
All month long, the community can visit the Robert and Mary Rita Murphy Stump Library to check out a display of books, film and performance art collected in recognition of Arab American Heritage Month, featuring authors from the Arab diaspora.
Each Thursday (April 9, 16, 23 and 30), the SXU Diner will offer a special food option in celebration of Arab American Heritage Month! Check out the campus dining webpage for weekly lunch specials at www.sxu.edu, keyword: Dining.
On April 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., join SJP and the Directors of the "Palestine Exception" in McGuire Hall for a special screening and discussion of the story of the largest anti-war movement since the 1970s.
Come grab a Middle Eastern treat, warbat, in the SXU Diner Atrium on April 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"Teach Me How to Dabke" will be held in the Wiseman Student Lounge on April 14 from 11 a.m. to noon. Join to learn the basic steps and movements for this traditional Middle Eastern line dance. This dance class will be hosted by FFA Entertainment.
On April 15, join the Muslim Student Association for a night of comedy with Danish Maqbool. The event will take place in McGuire Hall from 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Visit the SXU Diner to get henna done on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come grab a Middle Eastern treat, kanafeh rolls, in the SXU Diner Atrium on April 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join SJP, MSA, and Pre-Law Association on April 23 at 3 p.m. in the Fourth Floor Boardroom for a special panel on several Muslim countries that need humanitarian aid and how we can spread awareness about Sudan, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen.
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Palestine through the intricate art of Tatreez! Join an engaging event to learn about the historical significance and symbolic meanings behind traditional Palestinian embroidery. This event includes a brief presentation followed by a hands-on workshop where you'll have the opportunity to try your hand at this beautiful craft. All materials and refreshments will be provided. The event will be held April 27 at 4:30 p.m. in the SXU Diner Atrium.
"Arab American Heritage Month is an invitation to honor our stories and roots, and in these turbulent times, a reminder that we must reach for one another with openness and care, to truly see, embrace, and hold one another, because only through shared humanity can we create a country that is safe, compassionate, and home for us all," said Rania Sadeq, Ed.D., education professor.
SXU continues to celebrate Arab Americans every day through the Middle Eastern Studies (MES) minor, which presents valuable opportunities for the SXU community to learn about the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, both through the minor and through participation in events and activities organized both on and off campus.
To learn more about the MES program and minor, MES-related student organizations and other activities, visit SXU's MES page.