First Arab week to provoke open minds
By: Damien Weaver
Issue date: 2/7/05 Section: News
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Linda Edwards, director of International Outreach, said the week is aimed at exposing students to the many aspects of Arabic culture.
"This is a first for A&M," Edwards said. "We are excited about the message Arab students are trying to send."
Throughout the week, the Memorial Student Center will host a variety of speakers and exhibits focusing on the traditions of different Arab nations.
According to Edwards, there are more than 100 international students at A&M from 14 different countries. She said the purpose of Arab Cultures week is to give students a positive insight into the cultures and traditions of people from Arab countries.
Edwards said events in the Middle East that are covered by the media often have a negative connotation about the Arab people, and this event is an opportunity for students to be exposed to the many positive aspects of the culture.
In addition to the many cultural displays and informative brochures that will be available to students, there will also be presentations on topics ranging from the linguistic aspects of Arabian culture to a class on Arabic culinary arts.
"This is a chance to get to know (Arab students) as people," Edwards said. "How are we to determine who these people are if we don't give them a chance to tell us?"
Hazem Rashed-Ali, a graduate student in architecture from Egypt, said he wants to share his culture with U.S. students.
"You shared your culture with us, we want to share ours with you," Ali said.
Ali is one of several international students that will be at the MSC this week talking to students about various aspects of Arabic culture. He hopes that exposing people to their customs and way of life will help dispel any preconceived notions that students may have about Arabs.
"We haven't done a very good job of introducing ourselves," said Ali.
On Monday, Texas A&M will celebrate Arab Cultures week for the first time.
Linda Edwards, director of International Outreach, said the week is aimed at exposing students to the many aspects of Arabic culture.
"This is a first for A&M," Edwards said. "We are excited about the message Arab students are trying to send."
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