7 Easy Ways Americans Can Find the Arab Identity
By: Emily Becker/Arab America Contributing Writer
Learning about a new culture and identity is never a bad thing. Arab identity and culture isn’t something most people learn about in grade school or even into adulthood. Exploring the cultures around you and around the world can help to open your eyes to other people of other whole new sets of ideas, food, and heritage you may come to love, but you’ll never know until you try. Here are 5 ways to spark your interest with the Arab identity, learn something new and even make a few friends along the way!
1. Travel
Arab destinations can range from big cities to historic small towns to Wonders of the World. Check out the pyramids in Egypt or the amazing rock carvings at Petra, and other fascinating cities and structures. Read a related article here about the”10 Wonders of the Arab World.” There’s something for everyone and so much to learn.
2. Learn a new language, Arabic
Arabic is one of the oldest languages and is one of the most common languages spoken around the world. It can become a great fun fact to share with people you meet and can come in handy when making new Arab friends.
3. Find an Arab Event Near You
Arabs are all about community and with such a big Arab-American presence here in the U.S., there is bound to be an event near you. Finding a new festival or activity to do on the weekends is a great way to explore your city AND a new culture. Check out our Arab America events tab to find an event close to you.
4. Make a New Arab Friend
While you’re in attendance at the next Arab event in your area, make a new friend! Arabs are such kind people and would love to welcome you into their community. With this new Arab friend, you’ll have an insider look at the culture and identity and someone to practice your Arabic with.
5. Try the Cuisine
Arab food is flavorful and so underrated! From the bite-size falafels to a yummy shwarma to the variety of fatayer, you can never go wrong. Gathering around food is something all cultures do and is valuable in the Arab culture. Once you’re hooked, try different restaurants and ask where the owners are from. Remember that the recipes and dishes vary from country to country and even region to region.
6. Listen to Arab Music
Even music in other languages is fun to listen to, and there are Arab songs for every occasion. Search on your favorite music site to find the top Arab singers to more classical music and instruments. It can be calming while you’re studying or can even be a really fun upbeat way to get to work and even dance.
7. Read About Arab Identity and Culture
Head to your favorite book store and spend some time wandering the shelves filled with books about Arab history, stories of Arab people or even the relationship individuals have to current events. There is a storyline that is interesting to everyone and can really help gain another look into this identity.
