Our recent residency with the Moroccan based Fleur d'Orange wouldn't have been such a success without the support of those at the Center for Arabic Culture (CAC), especially Alma Richeh! Not only did she help provide wonderful spaces for our workshops and the performance of "Identite," she even took some time to speak to Aisha about how important it is to connect culturally diverse communities together. See what she strives to accomplish in her work with the CAC and what there is to gain through promoting Arabic artists.
AC: What are some of the resources you provide (or hope to provide) to the greater New England community?AL: The CAC's goal is to become the main resource on Arabic and Arab-American culture in New England for educational institutions, nonprofit and governmental agencies, and the community at large.
We can provide the New England Community with information about Arabic history, literature, music, arts and Language.
The CAC has a pioneering Arabic school that can help the community not only learn the language but also know about the richness and beauty of the culture through various workshops, concerts, documentaries, literary evens and galleries.
In addition, we have a growing library that can provide valuable information about Arabic history and Arab- American rich experience.
AC: Do you feel it's important to showcase racially and culturally diverse artists? Why?AL: Yes, it is very important. It does not only introduce the New England community to new experiences and arts but also it allows the people to learn about other cultures and nations in an open, peaceful and humanistic way.
Introducing culturally and racially diverse artists is a great way to build bridges and understanding between communities and nations. Such a matter is really needed and necessary those days.
AC: How does promoting Arabic artists empower Arab-American youth?AL: Promoting Arab Artists empowers Arab-American youths on various levels.
First, promoting Arab Artists will provide Arab-American youth with self confidence and give them a sense of pride in their Arabic heritage.
Second, they will have role models to relate to and be proud of.
Third, they will have stronger position in their communities when they realize that their heritage encompasses a beautiful culture and is a source of unique and peaceful art, music, language and literature.
As a result, they will turn to be stronger and more effective and positive community members.
The Arabic Culture is beautiful and we only need to present it to our community so they we can all share this beauty and grow in it.
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