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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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5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa History Social Issues Society

Nazik Al Abid: Activism, Feminism, and Her Struggle for a Better Syria

The story of a revolutionary Damascene woman. Nazik Al Abid reminds us how damaging patriarchal oppressive customs hinder us from any progress, how feminism not only empowers women, but creates a just society. Her struggle for a better Syria, which largely was achieved at the time, did not come without the pointing fingers of insecure men and women who were too intimidated by her. We remember her legacy today with the current state of Syria as we have much to improve and many voices and issues that have been ignored.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa Talents of Wanabqa

Nadine Kaadan

Award-winning author & illustrator Nadine from Damascus champions inclusive representation in children's books, illuminating Syria's heritage. Her works, including 'Answer me, Leila!' and 'Tomorrow,' delicately navigate special needs and war's impact, garnering global acclaim and educational use.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa History

Soraya Tarzi: The Forgotten Queen of Afghanistan

This article tells the story of Soraya Tarzi, the first Queen of Afghanistan and a pioneer of civil rights. She was born in Damascus to a progressive father and a Syrian mother. She married Prince Amanullah Khan, who became the King of Afghanistan in 1919. Together, they introduced many reforms to modernize Afghan society, such as education for girls, women’s rights, and separation of religion and state. However, they faced resistance from conservative forces and had to leave the country in 1929. Soraya died in exile in 1968, but her legacy lives on.
5 years ago
Queer Issues Society

Living in the Shadows to Protect My Family

Thank you for sharing your article with me. Here is an excerpt that I generated for it: A Syrian queer man shares his journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance in an unkind society. He challenges the stigma and discrimination that he and others like him face, and calls for recognition and respect of their humanity.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa Talents of Wanabqa

Rami Al Ali

The Syrian fashion virtuoso shaping style, breaking norms, and celebrating the synergy between art and fashion.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa Talents of Wanabqa

Rabiea Alshikkador

In this article, Rabiea shares his testimony of his journey from a dentist in Syria to an artist in the Netherlands, and how he found healing and purpose through his paintings.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa History

Louris Maher: Syria’s First Woman to Graduate from the Faculty of Medicine

Louris Maher was a pioneer of Syrian medicine and feminism. She not only became the first Syrian woman doctor in 1936, but also published books, founded a baby food factory, and defied the oppressive norms of her time. Her story is an inspiration for all Syrians who aspire for a better and more equal future.
5 years ago
Culture and Heritage Faces of Wanabqa

A Woman’s Effort in the Preservation of Syrian Material Culture

Syria’s material culture is rich and diverse, but it is also endangered by the threats of war, globalization, and colonization. R’s Culture is a project that aims to support Syrian artists, craftworkers, and culture by providing authentically-made Syrian goods to people abroad. By buying these products, you are not only getting high-quality and unique items, but also helping to preserve and spread Syria’s heritage and culture.
5 years ago
Faces of Wanabqa Talents of Wanabqa

Issa Touma

How does one capture the essence of a city that has been ravaged by war, yet still holds a glimmer of hope and resilience? Issa Touma, a Syrian photographer and cinematographer, has dedicated his life and art to answering this question. Through his films, photographs, and initiatives, he reveals the stories of Aleppo and its people, from the horrors of the conflict to the joys of everyday life.
5 years ago
Social Issues Society

Not So Happy Eid

“Happy Eid” messages have yet again bombarded my phone... Year after year, I look at the messages sent by family and friends whom I haven’t seen in years, and the irony of these two words leave me staring back at them wondering, we are not happy.
5 years ago
Social Issues Society

Why is the Diaspora so-Detached from their Homeland?

Syrians in the diaspora face a dilemma: how to keep their identity alive while adapting to a new environment. This article explores the struggles and joys of being Syrian in Canada, through the lens of personal stories and reflections.
5 years ago
Social Issues Society

Happy Mother’s Day to Mama

“She knew everything all these years.” Mama and my Queer Identity- an anonymous submission from Aleppo.
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