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Yalla, Feminists: Arab American Women Fighting for Change

By: Lina Abirafeh / Arab America Contributing Writer It’s not easy being Arab American these days. We’re all trapped in a complex mess, straddling conflicting worlds and (re)negotiating loyalties. I’ve always toggled between being “more Arab” or “more American” – often in reaction to whatever socio-political project is underway. These days, I’m fully entrenched in … Continued

“Music as an Escape”: 40 Minutes with Sommer Forrester

By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Sommer Forrester’s journey through music and identity is one of blending cultures, disciplines, and personal resilience. Sommer is an associate professor at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, where she leads the music education program. Raised on a rich tapestry of Arabic music and Western classical influences, she … Continued

Pathbreakers of Arab America—Leila Ahmed

This is the seventy-sixth of Arab America’s series on American pathbreakers of Arab descent. The series includes personalities from entertainment, business, sports, science, arts, academia, journalism, and politics, among other areas. Our seventy-sixth pathbreaker, Leila Ahmed, grew up in Cairo in the 1940s and ’50s and sought to define herself – and to understand how the world defined her – as a woman, a Muslim, an Egyptian, and an Arab. John Mason, contributing writer, takes us on the journey that brought her to the Harvard Divinity School, where she became the first professor of women’s studies in religion and a primary interpreter of Middle Eastern society, especially of its women.

“One Foot in Tradition, One in the Future”: 40 Minutes with Mike Khoury

By: Layan Srour / Arab America Contributing Writer Palestinian American violinist and composer Mike Khoury moves fluidly between rock bands, orchestras, jazz ensembles, and original works—all while staying deeply connected to his heritage. Based in Redford, Michigan, his music reflects a lifelong blend of influences, from traditional Arabic sounds to avant-garde experimentation. For Khoury, music … Continued

Ultimate List: 50 Ramadan and Eid Books for Children

By: Arwa Almasaari / Arab America Contributing Writer Here’s a collection of heartwarming and educational books that introduce children to the beautiful traditions and values of Ramadan. From the excitement of fasting and praying to acts of charity and community, these stories offer young readers a chance to explore the spirit of Ramadan in a … Continued

EMEL In Concert: When Music Becomes a Movement

By: David Elkin / Arab America Contributing Writer With her recent album MRA, the Tunisian-born, New York-based musician EMEL continues to redefine boundaries, both sonic and societal. A beguiling blend of ethereal soundscapes, hip-hop grit, and indie-pop allure, MRA is a work of artistic liberation and feminist defiance. The album’s title, MRA, means “woman” in … Continued

Palestinian Christians: Feeling Doubly Let Down by Western Churches

By: Marianne Christiansen / Arab America Contributing Writer The article was originally published in the Danish Christian daily Kristeligt Dagblad on February 18, 2025. It has been translated from Danish by Uffe Gjerding for Arab America. We must break the silence – and speak for those who need to hear that they are seen as … Continued

The Secret Healing Practices of Arab Herbalists: Ancient Remedies and Their Enduring Legacy in Modern Medicine

Rania Basria / Arab America Contributing Writer Throughout decades and countries, the healing arts have evolved in countless ways. Arab herbalism is one of the most fascinating and powerful traditions, harnessing nature’s richness while also laying the groundwork for modern medicine. Arab herbalists created hidden medicines and healing procedures that are still relevant today, drawing … Continued

Celebrating Pathbreakers for National Arab American Heritage Month

By: Arwa Almasaari / Arab America Contributing Writer Dr. John Mason has launched a series celebrating Arab American pathbreakers across various fields, from entertainment and business to science, academia, and politics. This initiative highlights the rich diversity of Arab Americans—men and women from different ancestral backgrounds making an impact in a wide range of professions. … Continued

The Wind Catcher: Lessons From Traditional Arab Architecture

By: Ralph Hage / Arab America Contributing Writer The wind catcher, or wind tower, is a prevalent feature in the traditional architecture of various cities in the Arab World. They are typically found in settlements situated in hot and dry or hot and humid climates. They usually take the form of large chimneys in the … Continued

How the Ottoman Empire Shaped Morocco (or didn’t)

By: Mehdi El Merini / Arab America Contributing Writer Geographic Barriers and Strategic Isolation One of the primary reasons for the Ottomans’ failure to subjugate Morocco was geography. Unlike Algeria, Tunisia, or Libya—regions that were accessible from Ottoman-controlled Egypt or Anatolia—Morocco’s location created natural barriers to Ottoman expansion. The Atlas Mountains and the vast Sahara Desert acted … Continued

Ways to Celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in Your Organization, School and Community

By: Arwa Almasaari / Arab America Contributing Writer National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM) is a time to celebrate the rich history, contributions, and cultural influence of Arab Americans and the broader Arab world. Here’s how you can honor their legacy, embrace their heritage, and promote greater appreciation in your community, workplace, or school. For … Continued

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