April Is National Arab American Heritage Month
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Feature by: Tebraie Banda-Johns, Director of the Intercultural Center
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National Arab American Heritage Month, observed throughout April, is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry and significant contributions of Arab Americans to the United States. This month provides an opportunity to honor their diverse heritage, traditions and achievements, while also promoting understanding and appreciation within the broader community.
The Arab American community is incredibly diverse, comprising individuals from various countries, including Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Palestine, Iraq, Yemen and many others. Despite this diversity, Arab Americans share common values, such as family, hospitality and a strong work ethic, which have deeply influenced American society.
Some of the most significant contributions of Arab Americans are in the fields of art, literature, music and film. From renowned poets like Khalil Gibran to award-winning filmmakers like Cherien Dabis, Arab Americans have enriched American culture with their creativity and storytelling. Their works often explore themes of identity, immigration and the complexities of the human experience, resonating with audiences worldwide.
As we celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month, let us take this opportunity to recognize the resilience, diversity, and richness of the Arab American community.
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Two Staff Receive Grants To Attend Library Conference
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Lindsay Tebeck, Collection Strategist Librarian, and Tracy Tolf, Systems and Applications Librarian, both received Professional Development grants from the Washington State Library (WSL) to attend the 2024 Annual Meeting of Ex Libris Users of North America (ELUNA) in Minneapolis in May. ELUNA is an educational group of users of library software products. Meeting attendees will engage with colleagues, learn about the latest Ex Libris products and gain practical information about optimizing the products for their institutions.
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Alissa Cordner Publishes PFAS Paper
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Cookies & Controversy Tonight
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Assistant Professor of Economics Jason Ralston will lead the next discussion in the Cookies & Controversy series—on the topic of “What Is the Value of Education?”—on Wednesday, April 3 at 4 p.m. in the Stanton Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room. (Flyer attached.)
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Dialogue & Dignity Series Continues Tomorrow
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The Dialogue & Dignity Series continues this week with Sarah Eltantawi, Associate Professor of Modern Islam at Fordham University.
Thursday, April 4:
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- 10–11 a.m. - Meeting with Student Life and other student-facing offices in Memorial Building, room 331.
- Noon–1:30 p.m. - Lunch session titled “Islamophobia and Liberalism/Liberal Arts Education” with students, staff and faculty in Memorial Building, room 331.
- 2–5 p.m. - Open office hours in Memorial Building, room 326.
- 7 p.m. - Public talk in Olin Auditorium, “Islamophobia and the Shift From a Unipolar to a Multipolar World.” (Flyer attached.)
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“Forest Politics” Talk Next Week
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Nancy Santi, Indigenous leader and the first elected female kuraka (president) of the Kichwa Pueblo of Kawsak Sacha in the Ecuadorian Amazon, will deliver a talk titled “Forest Politics” on Wednesday, April 10 at 2:30 p.m. in Maxey Hall, room 207. Santi will speak about fighting against massive expansion of oil projects in Indigenous territories, such as the XI Oil Round in Ecuador. (Flyer attached.)
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Student Clubs Host Eid Celebration Next Week
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While there is religious diversity in Arab communities, Islam is the predominant religious tradition practiced by those of Arab descent around the world. Close to 40 students at Whitman are connected to the Muslim Student Association. Three different student organizations (Muslim Student Association, Arab Culture Club and South Asian Student Association) are collaborating to host a campuswide celebration of Eid, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Join them for an evening of traditional food, clothing, dancing and music on Thursday, April 11, from 6–8 p.m. in the Cordiner Hall foyer.
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We are excited to be welcoming hundreds of admitted students and their families for Spring Into Whitman days on Saturday, April 6 and Saturday, April 13. Volunteers are needed to greet and direct campus visitors. Please sign up in advance!
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Memorial Building, Room 205
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Stanton Hall, 2nd Floor Conference Room
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Reid Campus Center, Room 207
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Reid Side Lawn or Sherwood 114 (weather dependent)
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Would you like to share an event with campus? Submit the information to the Events Calendar.
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