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From love poems to saints whose love for one another was as profound as their faith, queerness is woven into the history of the Levant. In this post, we cover some of Syria’s hidden queer legacy.

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4 years ago
Aleppo Social Issues Society

The Aleppine Diary

In Aleppo's sorrowful veil, emotions banished, replaced by an eerie calm. Death's grip on the city, a haunting presence. Once vibrant, now a desolate echo, mourned in silence, a tragic tale of uncherished life.
4 years ago
Damascus History

The 7 Gates of Old Damascus

The gates of Damascus speak to the rich history of the city. Not only did they once protect the city from invaders, they also give our present society a glimpse into the beliefs and culture unique to the different inhabitants of Damascus along history. Across the centuries, each gate served a different purpose and symbolized something distinct to the different societies that resided in the city.
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage History

Little Syria: Syrians’ First Home in the Western World

New York City is known for its diversity and multiculturalism, but few people know about the history of one of its earliest and most influential immigrant groups: the Syrians. In this article, you will learn about the origins, achievements, and challenges of Little Syria, the neighborhood that was once home to thousands of Syrians and other Arabs in Manhattan. You will also discover how Little Syria was erased from the city’s landscape by urban development, and how its descendants are preserving its memory and heritage today. Join us as we explore the fascinating story of Little Syria, the first home of Syrians in the Western world.
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage

Four Seasons: Every Syrian’s Second Family

A teapot whistles over the (diesel oil) fireplace that swallows it in its cave, spreading a warmth like that of our family; the same family that is going to nestle
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage History

Syria: the First in the World to Teach Medicine in Arabic

This article is an objective look into the history of this fact and its repercussions today, not a call for senseless pride. It is commonly known that medical terminology is derived from classical languages, such as Latin and Greek, and cannot be taught in different languages. If you ever wanted to study medicine and are one of the people who speak your native language better than English, then the sentence "Oh no! How are you going to survive Medicine in English?!", is not strange to you. Some report Arabic as the world's most difficult language to learn, which was not an obstacle for Syria. A surprise for the world is that Syria is the first and only country to teach medicine in Arabic since 1919 and to this day! Countries like Egypt, Sudan, Iraq, Tunis, Libya, and Lebanon have taught Medicine in Arabic for a period of time but switched to English/French due to colonization.
4 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa Northern Syria

Qudsia Haj Hussein

Qudsia Haj Hussein was a pioneer of women’s education in the city of Deir ez-Zor, Syria. She overcame many obstacles and challenges to pursue her own education and to provide opportunities for other girls in her community. She was one of the first Syrian women to graduate from middle school and high school, and she became a teacher and a principal of girls’ schools in Deir ez-Zor. She was a role model and a leader who influenced the social and cultural transformation of her city. In this article, you will learn about her remarkable life story and her legacy for future generations of Syrian women.
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage

Food: The Love Language of Our Parents

“Here’s a fruit-bowl for you to enjoy while you study” This is my parents’ way of support on a stressful exam night. Even though I’m generally not a fan of
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage Diversity

Eternal Outsiders – Gypsies in Syria

The term “gypsy” has been used throughout history in a pejorative way and is recognized by many members of the community and researchers to be a derogatory term (particularly in Europe) where they are known as the Roma people. Some members of the community in Syria use the Arabic equivalent of the term “غجر Ghajar” however “Dom” the equivalent of “Roma” is also used. As one of the ethnic groups that are most vulnerable to discrimination and persecution around the world, this community is considered a prominent ambiguous, diverse, and unrecognized group in Syria. They are known for practicing various professions, such as playing musical instruments, fortune telling, singing, and others; who are gypsies?
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage

Al Hakawati (The Storyteller) : A Theatrical Phenomenon & Important Element of the Intangible Syrian Heritage

The story behind Al Hakawati (The Storyteller) has a long and rich history. It is an art form that has been present across numerous cultures, but which evolved differently in relation to the local context’s ideals and beliefs. In Syria, Damascus particularly, the tradition of The Storyteller is considered one of the most remarkable folk arts and a valuable intangible heritage amongst the Damascene people.
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage

Silk: A Syrian Heritage

Silk represents an essential part of Syrian culture. Several Syrian proverbs and family names came to be due to the prevalence of silk in the lives of Syrian people. The silk industry in Damascus was in huge demand for centuries. Thanks to its convenient geographical location, Damascus was the epicenter of trade routes from the Mediterranean to the Gulf. Foreign merchants from across the world would pay a visit to the region specifically for these magically handwoven textiles. In the Arab Gulf countries for example, particularly the UAE, Syrians have gained a reputation for textile and silk manufacturing.
4 years ago
Aleppo Faces of Wanabqa History

Matilde Chelhot

The first Syrian businesswoman! Matilde Chelhot was a visionary leader who used her wealth and influence to create a major educational institution that offered vocational training to the poor and needy. She was also a humanitarian who worked with the Red Crescent and donated everything she owned for the benefit of the working class. In this article, you will discover the amazing life and legacy of Matilde Chelhot, who left behind a fragrant memory of good deeds, altruism, achievement, and inspiration.
4 years ago
Culture and Heritage History

Syrians Migrating to the US

Did you know that Syrian Americans have been in the US since 1880? In this article, you will discover their rich and diverse history, culture, and contributions to various fields in America.
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