Arab Voices Community Calendar/Announcements
The events listed below are not necessarily endorsed or sponsored by Arab Voices. Listing them on this site is a service to the community to be aware of activities and events in the Greater Houston Area. To include an event on this calendar, send e-mail to info@arabvoices.net.

2018 Events	Click here for a list of UPCOMING events._

December 23, 2018  -  Empower Women Empower Nations   Helping Hand for Relief and Development Presents a night to EMPOWER our sisters around the world.   Join us for a night of inspiration as we raise funds to help women become self-sufficient by providing them with the education and tools needed to attain a career or start their own business and truly become self-sufficient. Date: Sunday, December 23, 2018 Time: 5 PM – 8 PM Location: Noah's Event Venue, 16555 Creekbend Drive, Sugar Land, TX 7747   Guest Speakers:    Sr. Dunia Shuaib (Dallas, TX)    Sr. Suzy Ismail (New Jersey)    Shaykha Hanaa Gamal (Houston, TX)    Sh. Monzer Taleb (Dallas, TX) *Complimentary Valet Parking* **Dinner will be served** Admission: $200 for a table of ten, $110 for a family of 5, $30 for Single General Admission, $15 for Student Admission, $10 for Babysitting For more information please contact Summayah Johnson (832-732-4967, summayah.johnson@hhrd.us) or Ayub Hagi-Mohamed (713-517-8339, ayub.hagi-mohamed@hhrd.us). Purchase your tickets at: https://hhrd.org/buyTickets?eventid=285         December 9, 2018  -  CAIR-Houston Annual Banquet      We are Excited to Invite You to Our 17th Annual Banquet Entitled “Faith Led, Justice Driven”. Please Join Us in Celebration and Review of the Progress that Our Outstanding Team has Made This Year. We are Also Excited to have Sister Linda Sarsour and Brother Hassan Shibly as our Special Keynote Speakers, with Sister Roula Alouch as our Master of Ceremonies.   Date: Sunday, December 9, 2018 Time: 6pm - 8pm Location: Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria, 2001 Post Oak Boulevard, Houston, 77056   CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS.   Bring Your Family, Friends, and Everyone Else. Sponsor a Table and Secure a Spot for Everyone You Know. However You Can Make It, Make It – You’re Not Going to Want to Miss This Event!! ***Child Care FREE with Advanced Ticket Purchase***         December 8, 2018  -  "Christmas in The Middle East"   Brunch with Baba Noël Family Event       Date: Saturday, December 8, 2018 Time: 12:30pm - 2:30pm Location: Arab-American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   Join us for for craft, food, caroling ...   More information will be posted as it becomes available.         December 7, 2018  -  American University of Beirut (AUB) Alumni Houston Chapter Art Exhibit   Contact: houstonchapter@waaaub.org or (281) 352-5732   Date: Friday, December 7, 2018 Time: 5 PM – 9 PM Location: University of St. Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, Texas 77006   For more information, click here.       December 1, 2018  -  MAS Katy Annual Fundraising Dinner   "We are One Family" with Suhaib Webb and Ayman Aishat   Date: Saturday, December 1, 2018 Time: 7:30 PM Location: MAS Katy Center, 1800 Baker Rd., Houston, TX 77094   For more information, visit www.maskaty.org/.           November 23-25, 2018  -  ICNA-MAS South-Central Convention   Join Us on this Thanksgiving Weekend, Nov 23- Nov 25 for 12th Annual ICNA-MAS South Central Convention at Houston Marriott Westchase Insha’Allah   Highlights: Bazaar | Midnight Brothers Basketball Tournament | Interactive Presentations | Parallel Sessions | Youth lectures | Sisters Only Program | Matrimonial Service & Much more!!   Date: November 23-25, 2018 Location: Houston Marriott Westchase, 2900 Briarpark Dr, Houston, TX 77042   For more information, visit http://icnatexas.org/.        November 17-18, 2018  -  Houston Turkish Festival 26th Annual Houston Turkish Festival is here with more arts, crafts, food & drinks and more entertainment than ever before! • Watch the amazing performances of TUANA folklore ensemble from Turkey • Listen to acclaimed clarinet player Ismael Lumanowski from New York • Enjoy Turkish and International Opera Under the Stars with Mete Tasin of San Francisco and Erberk Eryilmaz of Rice University Shepherd School of Music • Sip the famous Turkish wine Kavaklidere & Turkish beer Efes Pilsen • Dance to modern Turkish beats with our local talent, Curcuna Band • Check out authentic Turkish coffee brewed on sand • Bring your kids for 2 full days of FREE activities ranging from magic shows to face painting, from Turkish traditional arts to storytelling • Enjoy a chance to win roundtrip airline tickets to Turkey • Try various authentic cuisines from different parts of Turkey Witness timeless whirling dervish shows • Shop the famous Grand Bazaar without having to travel to Istanbul... ...and more, much more! Date: Nov 17 at 11 AM – Nov 18 at 9 PM Location: Jones Plaza, 600 Louisiana St, Houston, Texas 77002   *KIDS under 12 always enter FREE.   The Turkish Festival is looking forward to giving you an authentic experience half a world away, and celebrate Houston's diversity and comeback following Harvey.   Check our website often for the program and other useful info: www.houstonturkishfest.com           November 17, 2018  -  Houston Gaza 5K + Dabke Party    FIRST EVER HOUSTON GAZA 5K + DABKE PARTY MOVING FOR MENTAL HEALTH The Gaza 5K is an annual walk/run hosted by UNRWA USA. This event raises funds for UNRWA emergency assistance in the Gaza Strip, including the Community Mental Health Programme (CMHP), which supports thousands of refugee children in Gaza affected by PTSD and other psychological trauma.   UNRWA's Community Mental Health Programme changes lives and restores hope for children impacted by trauma.    You can take action against the US Administration's decision to cut UNRWA funding and make this program accessible to Palestine refugee children by participating in the Gaza 5K.   Why we move for mental health In light of the UNRWA funding crisis and the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, we're fundraising to provide UNRWA emergency assistance in the Gaza Strip, including its Community Mental Health Programme for refugee children and families who suffer from trauma due to repeated Israeli military assaults and the continued blockade.   Date: Saturday, November 17, 2018 Time: 9:00 am Location: Cullen Park, 9008 Saums Rd, Houston, TX   For more information and to donate, visit http://www.gaza5k.org/houston/.        November 17, 2018  -  The Independence Day of Lebanon Celebration   Date: Saturday, November 17, 2018 Time: 7:30 PM – 1:30 AM Location: Our Lady of the Cedars Maronite Catholic Church, 11935 Bellfort Village Dr., Houston, Texas 77031   Click here for event flyer.        November 15, 2018 (deadline)  -  ACC 2018-2019 Scholarship    The The Arab American Cultural and Community Center is pleased to announce the annual College Scholarship Program for Arab American students who seek or currently attend a College or University. The application period will run from Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 to Thursday, November 15th, 2018. To apply for The Arab-American Cultural & Community Center Scholarship Program, please submit the following items in a neat package in a clear binder in the order: 1. Complete the attached application form. Must be enrolled in accredited Senior High School, College, or University. And of Arabic origins. 2. Submit prove of enrollment in accredited Senior High School, College, or University in USA. 3. Submit two letters of recommendation from either your teachers and/or employers. These should state how long you have been acquainted, what the nature of the relationship is, comments about your character and abilities, and any other information you would like the committee to consider. 4. Prepare and attach an essay of at least 500 words (typed, double-spaced, 12 point font, no more than two pages long), describing your career goals, your reasons for choosing these goals and what you have done thus far to prepare yourself and how you hope to give back to your community one day. Please state any previous volunteer work for the ACC or any other non-profit organization. 5. Attach an official transcript of your grades from your high school and college (if you have begun taking classes). 6. A Signed commitment pledge to volunteer for the Arab American Center in Houston for at least 10 hours during the semester in which the scholarship was awarded. Mail or bring in your packet to: The Arab-American Cultural & Community Center 10555 Stancliff Road Houston, TX 77099 Attn: Scholarship Program Application Submissions Deadline: Package must be received by November 15th, 2018. Scholarship recipient will be notified starting December 20th, 2018. Scholarship will be paid into 2 payments. Last payment made after the volunteering hours have been completed to satisfaction. Click here to download ACC Scholarship Application Pack. For more information, please email: school@acchouston.org.              November 14, 2018  -  Eyewitness Palestine: Occupation & Resistance   Hosted by Students For a Democratic Society at the University of Houston and Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Houston   Date: Wednesday, November 14, 2018 Time: 6 PM Location: University of Houston, (Room SEC 206) Science & Engineering Complex   SPEAKER: Bassem Kawar, an Arab-American community organizer and member of the U.S Palestinian Community Network, will speak about his recent trip to Palestine, where he met with grassroots activists across Palestinian society resisting Israeli settler-colonialism and military occupation. Kawar traveled from 1948 Palestine to the West Bank, from refugee camps to Palestinian Bedouin communities. He met with Palestinians across generations resisting through diverse means, from the realm of art and culture to the preservation of memory and history. Kawar will talk about these experiences, highlighting the brutality with which Palestinian communities are faced as well as their perseverance and dreams. He will also inform those of us living in the United States about how we can meaningfully contribute to the cause of Palestinian liberation.          November 14, 2018  -  Panel Discussion: Art, Activism, Spirituality   This particular political moment has seen the overwhelming involvement of art and faith communities, both advocating various causes and making their positions known. It is, therefore, imperative to open up dialogue between faiths as well as between the art, activist, and spiritual spheres. Historically, art, activism, and religion/spirituality have had many moments of overlap. We hope to tease apart the ways in which these forces work together as well as how they contradict each other.   The participants will each give a brief introduction then we will launch into a panel discussion. If there’s time after the discussion, we will open up for question and answer.    Date: Wednesday, November 14, 2018 Time: 6:30 PM – 8 PM Location: Station Museum of Contemporary Art, 1502 Alabama St, Houston, Texas 77004   Participants:   Jessica Davenport, a doctoral student in the African American Religious Studies program at Rice University. Jessica’s research interests include African American religion, literary studies and aesthetic theory with a specific focus on the religious significance of black women’s visual art.   David Leslie, the Executive Director of the Rothko Chapel—an interfaith space dedicated to human rights and the connection between spirituality and art   Nadeen Mustafa, Executive Director of TAIBA USA, which is a nonprofit that supports inclusion training and mentorship for women, by women in the Muslim community   The panel will be moderated by Sophie Asakura, Station's Assistant Curator. Her background is in art history, specializing in Russian revolutionary art.   For more info, click here.          November 13, 2018  -  Law and Revolution in the Arab Spring   The Arab-American Educational Foundation Chair in Modern Arab History at the University of Houston & The Arab-American Educational Foundation Chair in Arab Studies at Rice University cordially Invite You to a Discussion featuring Dr Nimer Sultany, (SOAS, University of London), Winner of the 2018 International Society of Public Law Book Prize and the 2018 Society of Legal Scholars' Peter Birks Prize for Outstanding Legal Scholarship   Discussants: Dr Ussama Makdisi (Rice University) and Dr Abdel Razzaq Takriti (University of Houston)   About the event: Dr Sultany will present his recent book, Law and Revolution: Legitimacy and Constitutionalism After the Arab Spring (Oxford University Press, 2017). This award winning book offers a critical re-examination of political, legal, and constitutional theory in light of the Arab Spring. It is a comprehensive study of the constitutional order that preceded and followed the Arab Spring in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Morocco, Jordan, Algeria, Oman, and Bahrain, while at the same time drawing on comparative insights derived from other revolutionary contexts. The book won the Society of Legal Scholars’ Peter Birks Prize for Outstanding Legal Scholarship 2018 and was a joint winner of the 2018 International Society of Public Law Book Prize.   About the speaker: Dr Nimer Sultany is Senior Lecturer in Public Law at SOAS (https://www.soas.ac.uk/staff/staff86825.php). He holds a Doctor of Juridical Science degree from Harvard Law School, and was the recipient of the British Academy Fellowship (2016-2017) and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at SUNY Buffalo Law School (2012-2013). Prior to joining SOAS, he practiced human rights law in Israel/Palestine, and was the director of the Political Monitoring Project at Mada al-Carmel—The Arab Centre for Applied Social Research. He published extensively on constitutional theory, comparative constitutionalism, and Israeli jurisprudence. Other publications include: “The State of Progressive Constitutional Theory: The Paradox of Constitutional Democracy and the Project of Political Justification” in the Harvard Civil Rights—Civil Liberties Law Review; “Against Conceptualism: Islamic Law, Democracy, and Constitutionalism in the Aftermath of the Arab Spring” in the Boston University International Law Journal; and “Activism and Legitimation in Israel's Jurisprudence of Occupation” in Social & Legal Studies.   Date: Tuesday, November 13 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Hilton University of Houston, Waldorf Astoria Ballroom E, 4800 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77004          November 11, 2018  -  Jaddoland Film     This year, the Houston Cinema Arts Festival is featuring a film about an Iraqi-American artist and her daughter.   Director Nadia Shihab and artist Lahib Jaddo will be in attendance.          Jaddoland Film When Nadia returns to her hometown in the Texas Panhandle to visit her mother, an artist from Iraq, she turns her lens on her mother’s increasingly isolated life, as well as the beauty and solace that emerge through her creative process. Soon, the filmmaker’s charismatic grandfather arrives, still longing for the homeland he recently left. While the shadow of geopolitical and historical forces looms on the periphery, the filmmaker searches for unexpected moments of meaning in the everyday, subtly weaving threads between past and present, her mother’s work and her own.    Date: Sunday, November 11, 2018 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Rice Media Center, 2030 University Blvd., Houston, TX 77005     For more information, or to purchase tickets, click here.           November 11, 2018  -  2018 Peacemaker Awards Dinner Houston Peace & Justice Center Presents: 2018 Peacemaker Awards Dinner Date: Sunday, November 11, 2018 5:30-6:30 PM — Social Hour | Cash Bar | Silent Auction 6:30 PM — Dinner & Program Location: Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks, 2712 Southwest Freeway, Houston 77098   Celebrate the 2018 Peacemakers: - Chuck Collins, Author & Co-Founder of Wealth for Common Good - Dr. Gerald Horne, Author & University of Houston Prof. of History & African-American Studies - United We Dream - Houston Chapter - Children's Prison Arts Project   For more information, click here.            November 10-11, 2018  -  Islamic Arts Festival   Come and enjoy a unique family friendly festival. Experience the rich tradition of Arts in Islam. View Islamic calligraphy, woodwork, ceramic tiles and paintings from local artists! Experience the art of henna tattoo, Ebru and calligraphy. Interact with artists and take part in silent auction. Art activities for all ages. Enjoy ethnic food from Food Trucks.   Islamic Arts Festival is the biggest of its kind in the Americas! See over 10,000 sq feet of a variety of Islamic Art. This year the Festival will also feature "Refugee Art" from overseas and locally. Have a fun day with the family with kids activities, halal food trucks and great art.     Date: November 11-12, 2018 Location: Masjid Al Salam Champions Islamic Center, 16700 Old Louetta Rd, Houston 77070     Welcome all! Admissions Free!     For more information, click here.      November 10, 2018  -  Al Mashriq Levant Cultural Night at the ACC A Family Cultural Event - Join us to discover the History, Traditions, Artifacts, Music and Food of the Levant: Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan   Embark with us on a virtual visit of the Mashriq region and its rich culture through an Exhibit of traditional items, various artifacts, clothing, books, and more from the region   • Taste the Delicious traditional dishes & food from the region catered by Fadi's Mediterranean Grill • Dessert catered by Suzie's Pastry • Music and dance entertainment • Dabka Perfomance by Jerusalem Dabka Group   Date: Saturday, November 10, 2018 Time: 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099 Check-in: 6:00 p.m. Mashriq Region Cultural Exhibition: 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. Dinner Buffet Opens at 7:30 p.m. sharp   Ticket Price: Adults Early Bird Special: $18 (until Monday October 29th) Adults Regular Price: $22 (after October 29) Kids: $8 (ages 3 to 11 years old)- Sibblings $5 thereafter Children under 12 will be in a separate room with a babysitter, no exception. We cannot take kids under 3 years old Babysitting, Fun Activities, Movie, and Pizza/drinks are all included in the Children ticket   Please note: All Tickets are Non refundable (click here to buy tickets) Attendance is limited to 200 seats.   All tickets need to be booked online and ahead of the event. There will be no at the door sales. Ticket sales will close at the latest on Monday November 5th by Midnight or whenever we are sold out, whichever comes first.        November 4, 2018  -  Justice for Israel-Palestine with Rabbi Arik Ascherman    Arik Ascherman has dedicated his life to upholding the Jewish tradition of universal human rights, fighting alongside Palestinians and Israelis alike. After leading “Rabbis For Human Rights” for 21 years, Rabbi Ascherman recently founded “Torat Tzedek-Torah of Justice.”    Rabbi Ascherman will introduce Torat Tzedek and speak about his work to prevent the destruction of Negev Bedouin villages and the villages of Khan Al Akhar and Susya in the West Bank. He will also reflect more broadly on the structure of power in Israel and whether Israel can still be called a democracy.   Date: Sunday, November 4, 2018 Time: 12 noon to 2:00 p.m. Location: Fireside Room, First Unitarian-Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin St., Houston 77004    A $5 lunch is available at the church from 11:30 a.m. to Noon.   Click here for event flyer.         Call for ACC Board of Directors Applicants   The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) is inviting applicants from the community for Board of Directors positions (Board of Directors serve without compensation).   The ACC is a non-profit, non-political and non-religious organization with the sole purpose to promote the Arab Culture; to serve members of the Arab American community; and to build bridges of communications and greater understanding of the Arab Culture amongst the Houston community at large.   Potential candidates must be at least 21 years of age, possess professional qualifications, and be in good standing with the community at large.   In order to be considered for Board membership, please email ACC President, at president@acchouston.org and include the following required documents:   1) a letter of interest outlining why you wish to be on the Board and how you will be contributing to the community. (If you have prior experience with Non-Profit Organizations, please make sure to indicate it as well)   2) a professional resume/CV   3) the names and contact information for three professional references   **To learn more about the Board of Director's duties and expectations, please click HERE. **Please subject your email with "Application to ACC Board".   The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday October 31st, 2018 by Midnight.               October 27, 2018  -  Im Hussein & Ajyal Theatrical Group: Double Trouble     For more information, visit https://www.imhussein.com/.          October 26, 2018  -  Alexandria Folk Dance Troupe of Egypt Show    The Alexandria Folklore Troupe of Egypt is coming to Houston as part of their 2018 Tour!    Featuring: - The Alexandria Folklore Troupe of Egypt - BellaDonna Dance - The Shimmy Babies - Amira's Oasis - Sirrom School of Dance - Aiwa Dance Ensemble - Sal Elsayed        Date: October 26, 2018 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Talento Bilingue Houston, 333 South Jensen Drive, Houston, TX 77003   Sponsored by the Egyptian American Society of Houston and Mediterraneo Market & Cafe   General Admissing $25 until October 25 / $35 at the door VIP $50 | $60 at the door   Be sure to check out the Saturday Workshops as well!   https://egyptfolkloreinhouston2018-workshops.eventbrite.com             October 26, 2018 - Being Muslim: Reflections from an Author's Journey Dr. Asad Tarsin's book "Being Muslim - A Practical Guide" has become a crucial addition to every American-Muslim's library. It serves as a great introduction to the beliefs and practices of Islam and focuses on practical and important topics that can help new and old Muslims better understand and practice Islam. Join us for a special event as we introduce you to Dr Tarsin and learn about his own journey in writing this book and the stories he has accumulated along the way. "Being Muslim: A Practical Guide is a necessary reading for all young readers to understand their faith." - Imam Zaid Shakir "A concise, useful, and accurate manual of core knowledge that every Muslim should know" - Shaykh Hamza Yusuf English and Spanish copies of the book will be available for purchase and signature.     Date: October 26, 2018 Time: 7 PM – 9 PM Location: Ibrahim Islamic Center, 5215 Almeda Rd., Houston    DR. ASAD TARSIN has been designing Islamic educational programs and teaching the basics of Islam for more than a decade. After completing his bachelor's degree in Islamic studies at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, he continued his study of Islamic theology, sacred law, philosophy and spirituality with some of the country’s most prominent Muslim scholars including Shaykh Hamza Yusuf and Dr. Sherman Jackson, among others. He has served as the curriculum director for the Deen Intensive Foundation for the last ten years and has a particular interest in creating sustainable models of education for new and returning Muslims. He lectures and teaches courses on Islam across the country. Being Muslim: A Practical Guide is his first published work. He is an emergency physician by training and lives in California with his wife and three children. http://www.beingmuslim.org/   Click here for more information.            October 20, 2018  -  Ben Qurrah Award Gala   The 11th Ben Qurrah Awards Gala will be honoring Dr. Fadlo Khuri and William Zoghbi.   Date: October 20, 2018 Time: 7 p.m. Location: JW Marriott, 5150 Westheimer Rd., Houston     Click here for more information.          October 19, 2018  -  History of Voting Rights & the Struggle of Minorities   History of Voting Rights and the Struggle of Minorities presented by Mustafa Carroll (Former CAIR Dallas & Houston Director)    Topics to include: Historic perspective on racial discrimination, literacy tests, poll taxes, etc. in the context of voting rights for colored minorities.   Date: Friday, Oct 19, 2018 Time: 8:30 pm Location: MAS Katy Center, 1902 Baker Rd, Houston, TX 77094    This presentation highlights the value and importance of voting for all minorities.          October 18, 2018  -  Dr. Hosam Aboul-Ela Forum & Book Celebration   University of Houston College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, The Departments of English and History & The Arab-American Educational Foundation Chair in Modern Arab History Cordially Invite You to an Academic Forum and a Wine and Cheese Reception Celebrating Dr Hosam Aboul-Ela's new Book "Domestications: American Empire, Literary Culture, and the Postcolonial Lens" http://www.nupress.northwestern.edu/content/domestications.   Speakers: Professor Saree Makdisi (UCLA), Professor Karen Fang (UH), and Professor Hosam Aboul-Ela (UH)   Date and Time: Thursday October 18, 5:30 PM Location: Shamrock Room, Hilton Hotel, University of Houston   Wine and Cheese will be Served and All Are Welcome!   Speaker Bios: Saree Makdisi is Professor of English at the University of California Los Angeles. He is the author of Reading William Blake (Cambridge University Press, 2015), Making England Western: Occidentalism, Race, and Imperial Culture (University of Chicago Press, 2014), Palestine Inside Out: An Everyday Occupation (Norton, 2010), William Blake and the Impossible History of the 1790s (University of Chicago Press, 2003), and Romantic Imperialism (Cambridge University Press, 1998). Karen Fang is Professor of English at the University of Houston. She is the author of Arresting Cinema: Surveillance in Hong Kong Film (Stanford University Press, 2017), Surveillance in Asian Cinema: Under Eastern Eyes (Routledge, 2017), Romantic Writing and the Empire of Signs (University of Virginia Press, 2010), and John Woo's A Better Tomorrow (Hong Kong University Press, 2004). Hosam Aboul-Ela is Associate Professor of English at the University of Houston. He is the author of Domestications: American Empire, Literary Culture, and the Postcolonial Lens (Northwestern University Press, 2018) and Other South: Faulkner, Coloniality, and the Mariátegui Tradition (University of Pittsburgh Press, 2007). He has also translated Voices by Soleiman Fayyad (Marion Boyars, 1993), Distant Train by Ibrahim Abdel Meguid (Syracuse UP, 2007), and Stealth (New Directions, 2014) by Sonallah Ibrahim. He is co-editor (With Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak) of the "Theory in the World" publication series.   Click here for event flyer.         October 13, 2018  -  ACC Annual Unity & Friendship Gala   Arab American Cultural & Community Center   This year we are highlighting the people and culture of Palestine!    Our Esteemed Honorees are: - Dr. Osama and Dr. Lilian Gaber for the Outstanding Community Service Award for Nora's Home - Dr. Ussama Makdisi for the Lifetime Achievement Award   Date: Saturday, October 13, 2018 Time: Reception starts at 6:30 p.m. Location: Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Houston 77056   Gala Chairs: Abla Amin & Dr. Rania Elkhatib     For more details, click here.         October 11, 2018  -  Room for Hope Palestinian Festival     It's finally here! Bright Stars of Bethlehem is coming to Texas for a multi-city festival of Palestinian culture.    Join us in Houston on October 11 for a grand finale of our multi-city Room for Hope Texas tour! The evening's festivities include:   - Performances by Dance and Theater students from in Bethlehem - Musical performances by Georges Lammam Ensemble - Palestine Unlimited exhibition of Palestinian photography - Traditional Palestinian appetizers and desserts - Presentation by Bright Stars of Bethlehem and Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb    Date: Thursday, October 11, 2018 Time: 5:00pm - 8:00pm Location: St. Paul’s Methodist Church     For more information, click here.          October 11, 2018  -  "Jerusalem: What Makes for Peace?" Conference    In the wake of the U.S. Embassy move, key faith leaders unite in a call for action!   On October 11, key ecumenical faith leaders, scholars, and peace advocates are uniting in Houston to wrestle with the topic of Jerusalem as key to peace in the Middle East. The recent move of the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem has threatened historic commitments to Jerusalem as a city for two peoples of three faiths and thwarted prospects for peace in the region.   The one day conference entitled Jerusalem: What makes for peace? brings together renowned leaders of various Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faith traditions from across the country and the globe. Speakers include:   • Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, conference organizer and President of Bright Stars of Bethlehem and founding President of Dar al-Kalima University of Arts and Culture in Bethlehem, Palestine • James Zogby, President of the Arab American Institute • Rev. Jim Winkler, President of National Council of Churches • Rev. Mae Cannon Executive Director of Churches for Middle East Peace • Jim Wallis, founding President of Sojourners • Dr. Iva Caruthers, General Secretary of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference • Dr. Bob Roberts, Founding pastor of Northwood Church and co-founder of Glocal Ventures     Bishop Michael Rineheart of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America Gulf Coast Synod and Father Don Nesti, Director of the Center for Faith and Culture at St. Thomas University will give the welcome. This interfaith conference aims to deepen understanding of the consequences of current foreign policy and the effects of theological frameworks of Jerusalem. The conference will also engage participants in identifying next steps to advancing a just peace in Palestine.     In addition to responding to this urgent moment, The Jerusalem Conference is, in part, a follow up from the 2016 Atlanta Summit at the Carter Center hosted by President Carter, which brought together key representatives from 26 denominations as well as numerous faith-based organizations working towards a just peace in Israel/Palestine. This event will take place at The Hilton- University of Houston. Sponsors include Bright Stars of Bethlehem, Churches for Middle East Peace, the Proctor Conference, and National Council of Churches. While the conference is open to the public, limited spots are available, pre-registration is recommended: http://brightstarsbethlehem.org/what-we-do/events/the-jerusalem-conference/.   Date: October 11, 2018 Location: University of Houston, Houston, Texas      Bright Stars of Bethlehem is a nonprofit dedicated to educating the next generation in Palestine through awareness-raising and fundraising efforts in the U.S.   If you would like more information about this event, please call Tori Pelz at 214.502.2269 or email communications@brightstarsbethlehem.org. ABOUT DR. RAHEB Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb is President of Bright Stars of Bethlehem and founding President of Dar al-Kalima University of Arts and Culture in Bethlehem. Former Senior Pastor of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem and the most widely published Palestinian theologian to date, Dr. Raheb is the author of 17 books most recently including, The Cross in Contexts: Suffering and Redemption in Palestine, and Faith in the Face of Empire: The Bible through Palestinian Eyes. A civic leader and social entrepreneur, Dr. Raheb has founded numerous organizations and serves on many regional and international boards. A leading voice in the path towards peace in Israel/Palestine, Dr. Raheb has been widely featured on international media outlets including CBS, CNN, ABC, BBC, PBS, The Economist, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Newsweek, and 60 minutes. Dr. Raheb holds a Doctorate in Theology from Philipps University of Marburg, Germany.         October 8, 2018  -  Anti-Blackness and the Palestinian Struggle    Dr. Melina Abdullah Professor at California State University- LA, and Co-founder of Black Lives Matter LA chapter   Dr. Gerald Horne Accomplished scholar, author, and historian of African American studies, and John J. and Rebecca Moores Chair of History and African American studies at the University of Houston   Date: Monday, October 8, 2018 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM Location: Student Center Theater, University of Houston   Co-hosted by nine total University of Houston student organizations and sponsored by the UH History Department   - Students for Justice in Palestine - African Student Union - Caribbean Student Organization - Youth Empowerment Alliance - Ahlul Bayt Student Organization - Black Pre Law Student Association - Students for a Democratic Society - Black Student Union - Students of East Africa   Click here for event flyer.       October 6, 2018  -  Women's Conference 2018   Join us for the 2018 Women's Conference! This year's theme is "Inspire". The conference's topics and sessions will be focused on women and their families.   Keynote Speaker: Ieasha Prime   Speakers include: Lobna Mulla, Dr. Ketam Hamdan, Dr. Shama Rasheed, & many more!   Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton, 11730 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079 Date: Sat, October 6, 2018 Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM CDT   Reserve your spot today! Organizer An Nisa, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization working to empower, educate, and enrich the community by providing counseling, educational programs, and the necessary assistance to help our clients regain self sufficency and work towards becoming a healthy family.       September 21, 2018  -  Syrian American Club Scholarship Endowment Gala    The Syrian American Club of Houston is pleased to invite you to its 2018 Scholarship Endowment Gala.   Date: Friday, September 21, 2018 Time: Reception starts at 7:30 pm, Dinner starts at 8:00 pm Location: Hilton Post Oak     Performance by Tarab Singer Yousef Shamoun   Click on the following link for online reservations and payment: https://www.syrianamericanclub.com/galaticketoptions.html          September 15, 2018  -  Arabic School at ACC (Kids, Youth, Adults)   Arabic classes at ACC will resume Saturday September 15th. Come meet with the Teachers and register on Saturday September 8th.   The Dr. Amer Sabbagh ACC Arabic School (for kids) operates on Saturdays and also on Sunday for those who cannot attend Saturday School. Classes are held from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. on either day.   The Arabic classes consist of a combination of language lessons, conversational time, support activities, and Arabic software reinforcement. We make it fun for kids to learn the language through Marketplace simulation, Arabic movies days, and other hands-on activities. Arabic Classes for Youth operates on Saturdays and also on Sunday for those who cannot attend Saturday School. Classes are held for 2 hours on either day. Arabic Classes for Adults operates on Saturdays. Classes are held for 1 hour.   To learn more about the school and to register, please call 832.351.3366 or email us at school@acchouston.org.         September 13, 2018  -  Interactive Know Your Rights Workshop   Join us this Thursday in the Agnes Arnold Hall (Room 10) at the University of Houston as we work with UMR to give our first ever Interactive Know Your Rights Workshop.   Get first hand training and experience in handling yourself through stressful situations such as interacting with the police, combating bias, and checking assumptions.   Date: Thursday, September 13, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00p.m. Location: Agnes Arnold Hall (Room 10) at the University of Houston   Fill out the form to confirm your seat! Limited spots are available, so please RSVP.   Please only sign up if you can dedicate the required time. A waitlist will be available if capacity is reached, and prospective attendees will be contacted by Wednesday, September 12th if seats are available.          September 9, 2018  -  Young Muslims Quiz Competition SHARING ISLAM, SERVING HUMANITY ICNA Houston is excited to announce the 22nd annual Young Muslims Quiz Competition. This is an Islamic Quiz Competition for children ages 4-16 which features competitions in knowledge, speech, qira'at, hifz, arts, poetry, a science fair, and much more!    Date: Saturday, September 8, 2018 Time: 9 AM - 4 PM Location: Houston Community College West Loop Center, 5601 West Loop South Freeway, Houston, Texas 77081   Our mission is to give our future leaders an opportunity to learn and demonstrate their skills through fun, exciting competition with others their age. YM QUIZ COMPETITION DAY Saturday, September 8, 2018 Houston Community College South Loop AWARDS CEREMONY Saturday, September 22, 2018 ISGH Masjid Hamza (TBD) REGISTER: www.icnahouston.org/ymquiz/registration SYLLABUS: www.icnahouston.org/ymquiz/syllabus Competitors will be notified of any changes. VOLUNTEER: www.icnahouston.org/ymquiz/volunteer/ SEE YOU ALL THERE! #YMQuiz2018 #SharingIslam #ServingHumanity         September 6, 2018  -  Religious Statecraft: The Politics of Islam in Iran Featured Speaker: Mohammad Ayatollahi Tabaar, Ph.D. Fellow, Center for the Middle East, Rice University’s Baker Institute Date: Thursday, September 6, 2018 Time: 6:00 pm Location: James A. Baker III Hall, Rice University, Houston Since Iran’s 1979 revolution, scholars and policymakers alike have tended to view Iranian political actors as religiously driven, dedicated to overturning the international order in accordance with a theologically prescribed outlook. In his latest book, “Religious Statecraft: The Politics of Islam in Iran,” Fellow for the Middle East Mohammad Ayatollahi Tabaar argues that such views have the link between religious ideology and political order in Iran backward. Through analysis of postrevolutionary Iranian media, recently declassified documents, theological journals and political memoirs, he explores half a century of shifting Islamist doctrines against the backdrop of Iran’s factional and international politics, demonstrating that religious narratives in Iran are highly influenced by politics and can change rapidly, frequently and dramatically according to elites’ threat perceptions.   At this event, Tabaar will present the key findings from his book, which constructs a new picture of Iranian politics in which power drives Islamist ideology.   A book signing will follow the presentation. Copies of “Religious Statecraft: The Politics of Islam in Iran” are available for advance purchase at a discounted price through the event registration page, with pickup at event check-in. A limited number of copies will also be available for purchase at the event via credit card only.   For more information, visit https://www.bakerinstitute.org/.          August 31-September 3, 2018  -  MSA National Conference This year's theme is Generation Thrive: Our Ancestors' Wildest Dreams! Date: August 31, 2018 – September 3, 2018 Location: George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas, Houston 77010   For more information, visit http://msanational.org/.        August 31-September 3, 2018  -  55th Annual ISNA Convention Hosted by Islamic Society of North America (ISNA)   Date: August 31, 2018 – September 3, 2018 Location: George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas, Houston 77010 Discounted Early Bird Registration Fee until February 28, 2018: Adult $ 89; Husband & Wife $ 170; University Student/ MSA $ 79; School Student/ MYNA $ 55; Children's Program $ 45; Babysitting $ 70; Group of 5 or more $ 75 per person, CSRL Banquet $ 200 per ticket   ISNA can provide a limited number of need based complimentary registrations for the convention. Please email us at convention@isna.net or call 317-838-8129 Hotel Rooms: ISNA has arranged discounted hotel rooms at the Hilton Americas Hotel which is connected to George R. Brown Convention center. You will receive hotel room reservation information via email in September 2017.   Convention Bazaar: A Bazaar (Trade Show) with more than 500 booths will be organized at this convention. At this trade show, a variety of merchandise will be available including clothing, books, audio-visual, etc. Contact akhan@isna.net for more information.        August 25, 2018  -  Eid Ul Adha Carnival   Date: Saturday, August 25, 2018 Time: 4 PM - 10 PM Location: MAS Katy Center-Masjid ArRahman, 1800 Baker Rd, Houston, Texas 77094   For more information, visit www.maskaty.org/carnival.         August 19, 2018  -  Brain & Brawn Lecture by Dr. Fustok   “Brain and Brawn” lecture by Dr. Abdel Kader Fustok at Al-Sham Center   In this talk, Dr. Fustok explores mind-body symbiosis and the recent discoveries that are challenging the concept that our mind-brain and our physical being are two separate entities.   Date: Sunday, August 19, 2018 Time: 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston   If interested in attending, please RSVP here. The Syrian American Club     August 3 & 17, 2018  -  In the Last Days of the City (Akher ayam el madina) Film Screening   Director Tamer El Said’s ambitious debut tells the fictional story of a Cairo filmmaker (Khalid Abdalla from The Kite Runner and The Square) struggling to capture the soul of a city while facing loss in his own life. Shot during the two years before the revolution in Egypt, this film-within-a film is a visually rich exploration of lives shaped by the shadows of war and adversity.   Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Friday, August 3, 2018: 7 p.m. Friday, August 17, 2018: 7 p.m. For tickets, please visit MFAH        July 29, 2018  -  Freedom Flotilla Presentation with Col. Ann Wright & Alex McDonald   2018 Gaza Freedom Flotilla Presentation Col. Ann Wright In Houston The 2018 Boats to Gaza Freedom Flotilla is crossing the Mediterranean as this email is being sent! Come see Col. Ann Wright who was with the Gaza flotilla in Sicily and Alex McDonald who was crew member on one of the boats as it was harassed by police in Paris do a presentation on the story of the 4 boats, their stops, the reception in different ports and their crews.   Date: Sunday, July 29, 2018 Time: 1 pm Location: Live Oak Friends Meeting, 1318 West 26th Street, Houston, TX 77008   Presentation will start at 1pm at Live Oak Friends Meeting. Bring your friends and families for an interesting story of activism for human rights and the Right To A Just Future For Palestine.   See the flotilla's progress at https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=14N5JulWb1BNdJnCKEd9FKn_zHSjlfgD6 (Points are in DDMMYY HHMM format so 250718 1535 is July 25th at 3:35pm)          July 12, 2018  -  Summer Sounds: Arazeel Rothko Chapel   Join us on the Plaza for music by Arab-Brazilian fusion group, Arazeel. Arazeel aims to build bridges across cultures. The group formed in 2014 when musicians from the Brazilian band Seu Jacinto and musicians from Austin’s Arab music community music got together. Arazeel’s repertoire includes: forró, a musical genre that originated in Northeastern Brazil and has African roots, Palestinian folksongs, Lebanese folksongs, and popular songs by Iraqi and Egyptian composers. The group utilizes elements from each of these influences as a foundation for improvisation and exploration.   Date: Thursday, July 12, 2018 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Rothko Chapel, 1409 Sul Ross St, Houston, TX 77006   Pay What You Can, suggested contribution $10 For more information, click here.         July 7-8, 2018  -  1st Iraqi Festival For the first time in Texas, the Iraqi festival host by Arabian entertainment featuring Hussam Alrassam along with lots of other singers and activities.   Date: Saturday & Sunday, July 7-8, 2018 Time: 2pm - 10pm Location: Jones Plaza, 600 Louisiana St, Houston, TX 77002   Tickets: Adults $15, Kids 2-10 years $7, 2 years and younger are free   For more information about ticketing, please call 346-404-3215.   For more information, click here.        July 5, 2018  -  Demonstration against the Houston Child Detention Center   Widespread, intense opposition to the separation of migrant families has led Trump to issue an executive order supposedly ending this practice. But this nightmare is far from over. About 2000 children remain separated from their moms and dads. Trump’s “zero-tolerance” policy of prosecuting migrants may mean more family separations or the long-term detention of entire families. The administration is talking about new detention centers for scores of thousands of migrants. And in Houston, plans for a new child detention center at 419 Emancipation Avenue are going forward.   The new Free Los Niños Coalition and the people of Greater Houston are not going to let this building become a prison for children or families. We are committed to stopping not only family separations but also raids, detentions, and the criminalization of people who are only seeking a better life. We understand that Trump’s attacks on migrants are part of a broader assault on people of color, women, LGBT communities, workers, and the limited rights we now have. And we are determined to defeat this dangerous repression, drive the Trump administration from power, and open the door to a brighter future with dignity and justice for all people.   The Free Los Niños Coalition and its member organizations invite you to participate in another demonstration against the Houston child detention center at 419 Emancipation Avenue on Thursday, July 5, at 6 pm. This action will include lots of chanting, remarks from sponsoring groups, a march through the neighborhood, some wonderful entertainment, and—time permitting—an open mic. Please join us and help prevent the detention of migrants on a street which was recently renamed to honor the emancipation of African Americans from slavery.   Date: Thursday, July 5, 2018 Time: 6 PM - 8 PM Location: 419 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77003-2211   Coalition members include Brown Berets de Houston, Familias Inmigrantes y Estudiantes en La Lucha (FIEL), Fight for Im/migrants and Refugees Everywhere (FIRE), Harris County Green Party, Houston Democratic Socialists of America, Houston Socialist Movement, Refuse Fascism, Service Employees International Union Texas (SEIU Texas), Socialist Alternative, and Texas Environmental Justice Advocacy Services (TEJAS). Additional sponsors are welcome.   For more information, call 281.935.1719 or 832.692.2306.        June 30, 2018  -  National Day of Action - Families Belong Together   Houstonians- UNITE! Join Indivisible Houston, PSR Houston, FIEL and other allied groups Saturday, June 30th at 10 AM for a rally at City Hall and march to Ted Cruz’s office to show solidarity with families and opposition to burdensome, ignorant, divisive immigration law.   The horrors of the deportation machine and the Administration’s decision to kidnap children and use them as pawns in exchange for a fantasy real estate construction project along the southern border rip apart families and destroy communities.   Join us to demand that our publicly elected employees take the following actions:   1) End the new DHS policy of family separation in order to REUNITE FAMILIES;   2) Demand a Clean DREAM Act;   3) Defund ICE (an agency established after 9/11 with expanded powers beyond standard customs checks and enforcement); and   4) End private prison donations and require reps return all private prison donations- both individual and PAC.    Date: Saturday, June 30. 2018 Time: 10 AM - 12 PM Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St, Houston, Texas 77002   #EndFamilySeparation #AbolishICE #AbolishCBP    For more information, click here.        June 28, 2018  -  A Dialogue Through Art    Islamic Arts Society (IAS) invites you to "A Dialogue Through Art", the closing reception of our two month long Islamic Arts Exhibition at the Main Houston Public Library. Please join us for a thought provoking evening; 5-7 pm, Thursday the 28th of June.    Date: Thursday, June 28, 2018 Time: 5 PM - 7 PM Location: 500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002   Please RSVP to info@islamicartssociety.org.        June 24, 2018 (deadline): The Palestinian American Cultural Center (PACC) Scholarship Program   Up to Six $3,000 Scholarships Available!   For high school seniors, undergraduate students, and postgraduate students in Texas.   Deadline: June 24, 2018   Apply online at http://pacchouston.org/scholarships/.          June 24, 2018: Solidarity with Humanity Benefit Concert    Rogue Virtue in collaboration with United Muslim Relief (UMR) present Solidarity with Humanity Benefit Concert featuring Hamza Namira   Hailed as the “new Sayed Darwish”, Hamza Namira is one of the most celebrated faces of modern Arabic music. A songwriter, singer, and multi-instrumentalist from Egypt, Hamza has become a luminous expression of his homeland’s resilience and ambition. Emerging as a major public figure, most notably since the Egyptian revolution of 2011, he uses his work to explore and engage with the prominent social issues of today. Well aware of a range of dilemmas his generation is facing, he addresses them in an emotive and inclusive manner, weaving through Egyptian traditional.   Date: Sunday, June 24, 2018 Time: 5:30 PM - 8 PM Location: UH South Theater, 4455 University Dr, Houston, Texas 77204    Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hamza-namira-live-in-houston-tx-tickets-46686648021?aff=efbeventtix      June 11-21, 2018  -  Arabic Summer Camp at ACC The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) will hold its annual Summer Camp for kids at the ACC Center  June 11th to June 21st, from Monday till Thursday. The camp hours are from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the option of Pre-care and After-care at additional charge.   Kids will learn the Arabic language and cultural through a combination of language lesson, daily themes, conversational time and hands-on fun inducing arts & crafts. Singing along to Arabic songs, a splash day and interactive games are just the beginning; children can be native or non-native Arabic speakers between 4 & 13 years. The camp consists of two one-week sessions. Kids can attend session one, session two, or both sessions.   Session 1: June 11th to June 14th- Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Session 2: June 18th to June 21st - Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099    This year, we have a scheduled field trip to Asia Society on Thursday June 14th. The kids will be treated to hands on activities and a tour of an exhibit. For those interested to register their child and for more details about fees and: https://arabicsummercamp2018.eventbrite.com   For any questions, parents are welcome to email school@acchouston.org.   Click here for flyer.        June 17, 2018  -  EAS Eid and Fathers' Day Picnic The Egyptian American Society (EAS) will be hosting a picnic on June 17th, 2018. It will be a special celebration of both Eid Alfitr عيد الفطر and Father's day, and would like to invite each and every one of you, your family members and friends. Let's get together and have a great time with the community gathered together for a fun day.   The Egyptian American Society has reserved a pavilion for this gathering in a wonderful park in Sugar Land, which offers a lot of opportunities for all ages.   Location: 3703 Lost Creek Blvd, Sugar Land TX 77479 Phone: 281-275-2700 Time: 2-8 pm   Items you may need to bring to the picnic:   - A disposable table cover   - Water, drinks, snacks   - Food, kahk.   - Paper towels, wipes, hand sanitizer   - Extra chairs   - Games   - Positive attitude :))   A special treat for everyone will also be entertainment by Adam Yacout.   The EAS is now a nonprofit organization and exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)3.   Hope to see you all and Ramadan Kareem رمضان كريم وكل عام وانتم بخير. Egyptian American Society EAS-Houston      June 16, 2018  -  Eid Carnival Great Family Fun This Eid   Fun, food, and festivities for you and the family! Delicious Variety of Halal Food: Grilled Chicken, Burgers, Texas Style BBQ, Mediterranean, Indian, Pakistani and more...   Community Bazaar: Selling toys, clothing, decoration ornaments and much more... Henna, Face Painting, Petting Zoo, Bubble Soccer, Obstacle Courses    Date: Saturday, June 16, 2018 Time: 4 pm Location: MAS Katy Center, 1902 Baker Rd, Houston, TX 77094   Click here for event flyer, or visit www.maskaty.org/carnival.        Eid picnic for refugees families and gifts collection On the occasion of the upcoming Eid Holiday, the Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) is organizing a Eid picnic exclusive for fellow refugees families that will take place on the weekend of Eid, and collecting gifts to distribute for them on that day.   We kindly ask you to donate new items only: - Toys and Games (for boys & girls) - Household Items such as TVs - Irons - Iron Boards - Blenders - Food Processors - Cooking Pots - Dinner Plates Sets - Glass Cups Sets - Silverware Sets, Vacuum, Bath mats, Bedsheets, etc.).   Please bring your unwrapped gifts in gift bags to facilitate the sorting and distribution according to age, gender and needs.   We do appreciate your kind and generous donations in bringing joy to families in need.   Please email us at nervin@acchouston.org if you want to volunteer on the Eid Picnic Day. Deadline: Please make sure to drop off your gifts at the latest by Friday June 15th, 2018 to give us enough time to itemize them for Eid Day.   Drop off location: 10555 Stancliff Rd. Houston TX 77099 Days & Timing: Monday - Friday (9:30am -4:30pm)        June 8, 2018  -  International Day of Al-Quds-Houston   A Call for Solidarity with Palestine and the World's Oppressed.   Quds Day is recognized globally as a day to remember the plight of the Palestinians and the oppressed people of the world who are voiceless and struggle for their basic rights. It will be held on the last Friday (June 8, 2018) of the holy month of Ramadhan.      Date: Friday, June 8, 2018 Time: 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Location: 24 Greenway Plaza (in front of the Consulate General of Israel), Houston, TX 77046           June 3, 2018  -  Rays of Change 2018 Rays of Change is Amaanah’s annual benefit dinner for resettled refugees in Houston. The event is attended by more than 1,100 guests every year. Guests share the experience on social media with thousands of friends.   For inquiries or processing, please contact muhammad.d@refugeelink.com or ghulam@refugeelink.com. You can also reach us by phone at 713.370.3063.   For more information, click here.        June 2, 2018  -  No Age Requirements on Freedom Join us for the discussion of the year! We've got two superstars ready to give you the tools to build a foundation for progression!   Event discussion topics will include: - Educating yourself and peers on your civil liberties and social justice issues. - Play by play of the daily life of an activist, and what to expect working in the Nation's Capitol. - Development of creative activism and leadership skills. - Opportunities to volunteer, intern, and learn to author legislation that could be introduced on State and National Legislative floors. - Using age to your advantage to define the American Muslim and a Young Activist. - How this is the best time in American History to be an Activist.   Date: Saturday, June 2, 2018 Time: 1 PM Location: Maryam Islamic Center, 504 Sartartia Rd, Sugar Land, Texas 77479   Click here for event flyer.        June 1, 2018  -  Ramadan Fundraising Iftar Dinner Join CAIR Texas Houston for Ramadan Fundraising Iftar Dinner with Roula Allouch of CAIR-National. We'll go over our year of activism and our goals for the future - and we can't do any of it without you!   Date: Saturday, June 2, 2018 Time: 7 pm Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton, 11730 Katy Fwy, Houston, Texas 77079   Click here for event flyer.        May 25, 2018  -  ACC Ramadan Night (Iftar/Dinner)    Ramadan is observed by a large segment of Arabs (and non Arabs) around the Globe as a month-long of fasting from sunrise to sunset and also as a month of giving, self-reflection, and self-control.   Join us for a wonderful immersion into Ramadan traditions and cultural rituals from the Arab World. Bring your Non-Arab Friends for a night of cross cultural discovery experience.   Date: Friday, May 25, 2018 Check-in starts at 7:15 p.m., Dinner will be served at Sunset at the time of breaking the fast (around 8:10 p.m.) Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099     Visit a makeshift traditional Arabian decor corner Learn about Ramadan festivities from several Arab countries Taste the Delicious traditional dishes and dessert from the Arab World Enjoy the Ramadan evening program- Special Surprise Performance Kindly note that all tickets need to be booked online and purchased ahead of time prior to the event. Due to food pre-ordering and limited seating, we cannot accommodate ANY tickets sales at the door, no exceptions. We thank you for your understanding.   Places are limited to 250 seats, therefore register early to guarantee a spot. Ticket sales will close by Monday May 21st or when we reach capacity, whichever happens first.   TICKETS EARLY BIRD ADULTS: $15- Ends Thursday May 17th at 6 p.m. Regular Tickets: Adults and Kids 10 years and above: $20 Children Tikets: Kids between 4 and 9 years old: $8. This includes dinner, babysitter, and games. Kids will be in a separate room with a babysitter we cannot accept any kid below 3   Tickets are non refundable Vendors: There will be a Calligraphy, Henna and other stations vendors at extra cost. Optional: Bring a toy, game, or kitchen item with you to donate to refugees families in town. We will be collecting the donated toys and distribute them before the end of Ramadan. We kindly ask for NEW items only. Please do not wrap up the items as we will be sorting them to assign to families according to age and gender. We thank our Sponsors: Consulate General of the State of Qatar PACC- Palestinian American Cultural Center- http://pacchouston.com/ Suzie's Pastry Shoppe- https://www.suziespastry.com/ Abu Omar Halal & Arabella Mediterranean Cuisine- http://arabellamc.com/   We Look Forward to Seeing You!           May 23, 2018  -  PCRF Houston Iftar Dinner   The Palestine Children's Relief Fund is having its annual iftar on May 23rd at Fadi's in Sugar Land! Alhamdulilah, thanks to all our supporters last year we were able to sponsor a 9 year old girl from Jenin to have hip surgery at Memorial Hermann. InshaAllah, we hope to sponsor several more children just like her in the future. This year, CEO and President, will be joining us all the way from Gaza!   Date: May 23, 2018 Time: 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Location: Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill, Sugar Land Cost: $30   For tickets and RSVP visit: http://www.pcrf.net/event/houston/ For more information about PCRF, you can visit www.pcrf.net For questions please email: houston@pcrf.net     Click here for event flyer.              May 15, 2018  -  Emergency Protest PALESTINIANS ARE BEING MURDERED BY THE MASSES AND THE WORLD CONTINUES TO STAND BY AND BE SILENT. WE WILL NOT. For the last seven decades, Israel has carried out a continuing ethnic cleansing and colonization of Palestine and its people. Israel continues to murder Palestinians as the world stands by silent and in support of the genocide. Today marks not only the anniversary of this tragedy, but new terror unleashed against Palestinians. On Monday, Israeli forces murdered 55 Palestinians in Gaza and injured 2,700 more, shooting, bombing and gassing the protestors as the US renewed its support of the genocide with a new embassy in occupied Jerusalem. This brings the total casualties of this act of terror to 104 killed and 12,000 injured since Israel began its onslaught on the protesters in March. Students for Justice in Palestine at UH refuses to stay silent in the face of these massacres! Protest with us in solidarity with Palestine as its people face renewed terror. We bring our voice to the Zionist Consulate in Houston calling for justice and an end to the genocide.   Date: Tuesday, May 15, 2018 Time: 8:30 AM - 12 PM Location: 24 Greenway Plaza (in front of the Consulate General of Israel), Houston, TX 77046           May 14, 2018  -  Religion and U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East    Religion and religious actors occupy a central role in the politics of Muslim majority countries of the Middle East. How these actors view the U.S. and its policies in the region is critical to American interests. At this event, panelists will discuss the results of a new regionwide survey on key policy topics, including foreign intervention in the Middle East, regional violence and democratic forms of governance. Experts will also examine how major religious actors such as the Muslim Brotherhood, the AKP and the Ennahdha Party view and engage with U.S. actions in the Middle East, and will analyze the implications for Trump administration policies.   Date: Monday, May 14, 2018 Time: 5:30 pm Location: James A. Baker III Hall, Rice University   Panelists: - Sharan Grewal, Ph.D. Candidate, Princeton University - Tarek Masoud, Ph.D., Sultan of Oman Professor of International Relations, John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University - Scott Williamson, Ph.D. Candidate, Stanford University Moderated by: A.Kadir Yildirim, Ph.D., Fellow, Center for the Middle East, Rice University’s Baker Institute   for more information or to register, click here.           May 12-13, 2018  -  4th Annual Houston Lebanese Festival    4th Annual Houston Lebanese Festival   Delicious Food and Great Festivities   May 12, 2018 (Saturday): 12 PM - 11 PM May 13, 2018 (Sunday): 12 PM - 9 PM     Location: Constellation Field, 1 Stadium Dr, Sugar Land, Texas 77498   Purchase your tickets TODAY! Admission: $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 5-12: kid’s games are included in admission tickets). Children 4 years and under are FREE.     For more information, visit www.HoustonLebaneseFestival.com. Click here for festival flyer.           May 12, 2018  -  Nakba Day 2018: Houston   Organized by Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Houston   Date: Saturday, May 12, 2018 Time: 12 PM - 2 PM Location: Corner Of Westheimer and Post Oak, Galleria Area, Houston, Texas   Please join us in the Texas wide action for Palestine in commemoration of the Nakba and the ongoing struggle for liberation and return.   May 15th, 2018, marks 70 years of the ethnic cleansing of almost 800,000 Palestinians from their homes and lands, at the hands of Zionist militias. To this day these refugees and their descendants are still barred from returning to Palestine. Israel has recently escalated its racist and genocidal policies, with the increased detention and murder of children, while Jerusalem, the capital of Palestine, is under threat. The Palestinian people, alongside their international allies, are organizing to let the world know that the land, from Haifa to Jerusalem to Gaza and all in between, will be liberated and that a sovereign, independent, free Palestine is inevitable as long as its people remain beacons of resistance and resilience.   We will be gathering as a community to demand:   1. The right of return for ALL Palestinian refugees and their descendants 2. Israel keep its hands off Jerusalem, the capital of Palestine 3. The end of the 11 year blockade of Gaza 4. Freedom for all political prisoners 5. An end to Israeli colonization of ALL of historic Palestine   Despite over 70 years of Israeli colonialism, racism, occupation, and apartheid, the Palestinian people continue to resist and inspire the world to stand up against oppression in all its forms. In the words of Marwan Barghouti, "Our chains will be broken before we are."            May 11, 2018  -  The Epidemic Obesity By Abdel Kader Fustok, M.D., Ph.D. Director of the Institute of Cosmetic Surgery Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic surgeon   Obesity is now a major cause of many illnesses. It is a national and world major problem. In 2001 the number of obese children was 7 million. Now it is over 20 million. As obesity increases it brings along with it many diseases. How and why? And what can we do about it?   Date: Friday, May 11, 2018 Time: 7 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   To reserve a Seat: https://obesityepidemicsatacc.eventbrite.com   Abdel Kader Fustok, M.D., Ph.D. is the Director of the Institute of Cosmetic Surgery and has a private practice specializing in plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery based in Houston, Texas since 1982.            May 5-13, 2018  -  Houston Palestine Film Festival      Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH)   Saturday, May 5, 7:00 p.m.   Ghost Hunting | Raed Andoni   Short film: Wa'ad | Mohammed Shalodi     Sunday, May 6, 6:00 p.m.   Wajib | Annemarie Jacir (Academy Award nominee for Best Foreign Language Film)   Short film: Silence | Sahera Dirbas Rice University Media Center   Friday, May 11, 7:00 p.m.   Ghost Hunting | Raed Andoni   Short films: Silence | Sahera Dirbas, Laymun |Catherine Prowse   Saturday, May 12, 5:00 p.m.   Off Frame AKA Revolution Until Victory | Mohanad Yaqubi   7:00 p.m.   Wajib | Annemarie Jacir (Academy Award nominee for Best Foreign Language Film)   Short film: Measures of Distance | Mona Hatoum     Sunday, May 13, 5:00 p.m.   Stitching Palestine | Muna Khalidi & Carol Mansour   Short film: Visitation | Noor AbuGhaniah    More info at www.hpff.org.          May 6, 2018  -  ACC Documentary Screening "Lessons in Seeing" A film by Yehuda Sharim When the elderly math teacher, Sibhatleab, ventures alone from a refugee camp in Ethiopia, he finds himself at the bottom rung of the social ladder in a vast, faceless Texan metropolis in the summer before a contentious election. As he still copes with his unthinkable twenty-five year history of imprisonment and torture, he finds hope at Salem Market, a tiny store that caters to Houston’s refugee community. The film tells his story of disillusionment and resilience, questioning our understanding of the immigrant experience in contemporary America. Date: Sunday, May 6, 2018 Time: 5:30 pm Film Begins, 7:00 pm Community Discussion Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   For Tickets: http://ACCLessons.eventbrite.com   Organizers: Houston In Motion            May 3, 2018 - Breaking the Siege of Gaza: 2018 Gaza Flotilla Fundraiser   Join us to learn about Gaza's increasingly deteriorating conditions and hear how a broad coalition of activists, academics, veterans, and Palestine solidarity organizers plan to break the siege in this summer's upcoming Gaza Freedom Flotilla and to draw attention to the inhumane conditions Israeli Occupation and blockades imposes on Palestinians.   Speaker: Col. Ann Wright, Veterans For Peace Tentative Special Guest Via Video Chat: Palestinian youth from Gaza, who has lived his whole life under Israeli siege   Ann Wright is a Retired US Army Colonel and former US Diplomat who resigned from the State Department in ’03 in opposition to the invasion/war of Iraq. A deeply committed peace & justice activist, she has sailed on three of the more than two dozen Gaza Freedom Flotillas-including the most recent “2016 Women’s Boat to Gaza” carrying Humanitarian aid & construction materials to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Ann will present an update on the deterioration of Gaza, efforts to challenge Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, and give info on how people can support the movement to break the siege.   Date: Thursday, May 3, 2018 Time: 7 PM - 9 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   All proceeds will go directly to the upcoming 2018 Gaza Freedom Flotilla. Cosponsors: Campaign Nonviolence Houston, Veterans For Peace, The Council on American-Islamic Relations Texas, Palestinian American Cultural Center, CODEPINK: Women For Peace   Click here for event flyer.     May 3, 2018  -  Challenging Fake News: A Journalist's Personal Narrative Please save the date for the upcoming Muslim Professional Association networking event as Mnar Muhawesh, founder and editor in chief of MintPress News addresses the gathering.   Date: Thursday, May 3, 2018 Time: 6 PM Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston Energy Corridor, 11730 Katy Fwy, Houston 77079 The 2016 Presidential election between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump ignited a “Fake News” frenzy. But in fact, “fake news” has been a part of the American media landscape for decades. From flipping the narrative about Israeli occupation to the lies that led to the justification of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, hear how one journalist found courage and catharsis after living under a war zone to stand up to the war machine and challenge the real “fake news” that has been clogging our airwaves. More information can be found at http://mpahouston.org/.       April 29, 2018  -  Arab Heritage Month: Arab American Poetry & Non-fiction Readings ~ Followed by a conversation   Fifth Annual Arab Heritage Month by The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) Houston   Arab American Poetry & Non-fiction Readings with Hayan Charara, Fady Joudah, and Hosam Aboul-Ela (followed by a conversation)        Date: Sunday, April 29, 2018 Time: 3:00 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099    Free Admission   Special thanks to our community Partner: The Arab American Educational Foundation Free Admission. To register & RSVP: https://arabheritagemonth2018.eventbrite.com   For more details and inquiries, call us at 832-351-3366      April 28, 2018  -  Arab Heritage Month: Hassan El Fad Comedy Show: Who is Kabour?   Fifth Annual Arab Heritage Month by The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) Houston        Date: Saturday April 28, 2018 Time: 8:00 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   Tickets: http://achrafevents.com     April 22, 2018 -   Syrian Seyran at SAC's Spring Picnic   2018 Spring Picnic   Join The Syrian American Club (SAC) for a Syrian "seyran" at the SAC's annual spring picnic! Date: Sunday, April 22 Time: 12 pm to 6 pm (Lunch served from 2 to 4 pm) Location: Bear Creek Park, Pavilion 5, Schultz Ln, Houston, TX 77084 Admission: $20 Members, $40 Nonmembers, $15 Children (Ages 3-12)   There will be fun and entertainment for all ages, including a DJ, face painting, henna, 'barjis,' backgammon, animal rides, bingo and more!   For more information or to RSVP, click here.   Event Flyer.     April 20, 2018  -  HPFF Pre-Festival Spring Screenings: Houston premiere of Sheikh Jackson by Amr Salama   Houston Palestine Film Festival Join us for our pre-festival Spring screenings at the University of Houston!    Houston premiere of Sheikh Jackson by Amr Salama.   Thanks to a community engagement grant from the Mid-America Arts Alliance, HPFF is partnering with the University of Houston’s Middle East Studies Program, and Arabic Club to bring you films from Palestine and Egypt this April.   Date: Friday, April 20, 2018 Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: University of Houston      Tickets for this event will be sold at the door.        April 20, 2018 -  Arab Heritage Month: Ladies International Cultural Night   Fifth Annual Arab Heritage Month by The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) Houston   This event is for ladies only. Members of our community from various countries from the Arab World and beyond are invited to decorate a table with artifacts and to bring sample staple food from their culture to share with other guests. All are encouraged to wear traditional clothes (even though not a must) and be ready to dance at the rythm of music from around the World.          To book a table, please contact ACC at 832-351-3366 or email membership@acchouston.org.   Date: Friday, April 20, 2018 Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   Free Admission. To register & RSVP: https://arabheritagemonth2018.eventbrite.com       April 7 & 14, 2018  -  Arabic Calligraphy Workshops   Join us at the Arab American Cultural and Community Center for a new session of Arabic Calligraphy Workshops.   Enroll in our workshop to learn the beautiful art of Arabic Calligraphy. There is no requirement of knowing the Arabic language. These workshops are suitable for all ages (from 7 to 90 plus!). The Kickoff Workshop will be the basics of Arabic Calligraphy.   Teacher: Mr. Munther Yousef   Introduction and Beginners Workshop: The Introduction to Calligraphy workshop is a prerequisite to all higher level workshops. Saturday, April 7th, from 12 to 2 p.m. Workshop Fees: $35 Plus cost of Kit (to be kept by students), Supply Kit: $30 (optional) Beginners Level Workshop: Roq'a Arabic Script (5 sessions) Students are expected to have completed the Introduction to calligraphy workshop. Saturday April 14th - May 12th, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Workshop Cost (5 weeks): Total $150 + Any supply kit LIMITED SPACE- SIGN UP EARLY   For more details and to enroll, click here.        April 13, 2018  -  Who Speaks for America's Muslims? Risala Foundation is pleased to welcome Todd Green and Jonathan AC Brown to Houston!   Date: Friday, April 13, 2018 Time: 7:30 PM Location: ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center, 3110 Eastside St, Houston, Texas 77098 TODD GREEN is Associate Professor of Religion at Luther College. A nationally recognized expert on Islamophobia. As a public scholar, Green writes regularly for The Huffington Post and has been interviewed by a variety of media outlets on Islamophobia, including CNN, NPR, Al Jazeera, France 24, and Reuters. His views on Islamophobia have also been cited by organizations such as the Council on Foreign Relations, the Center for American Progress, and the Southern Poverty Law Center. Green is the author of The Fear of Islam: An Introduction to Islamophobia in the West (Fortress Press, 2015). The book surveys the history of anti-Muslim prejudice in Europe and the United States and addresses the political and cultural factors contributing to the rise of Islamophobia in the post-9/11 era. His forthcoming book is Presumed Guilty: Why We Shouldn't Ask Muslims to Condemn Terrorism (Fortress Press, 2018). This book will challenge the presumption of guilt made about Muslims after terrorist attacks and will address healthier ways for majority populations in the United States and Europe to engage Muslim communities other than through the prism of counterterrorism. JONATHAN AC BROWN is Associate Professor of Islam and Muslim Christian Relations in Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and Director of the Alwaleed bin Talal Center for Muslim Christian Understanding. He received his BA in History from Georgetown University in 2000 and his doctorate in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago in 2006.   For more information, visit www.facebook.com/pg/risalafoundation/events/.             April 12, 2018  -  Arab Heritage Month: Omani Cave Art Exhibit   Fifth Annual Arab Heritage Month by The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) Houston    Omani Cave Art Exhibit: Cultural Treasures from the Cave of Dhofar~ A Photography Exhibition   Opening Reception & Presentation by Dr. Maria Curtis, an Associate Professor of Anthropology and Cross Cultural Studies Program Director at the University of Houston-Clear Lake    Date: Thursday April 12, 2018 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   Free Admission. To register & RSVP: https://arabheritagemonth2018.eventbrite.com   Exhibit will remain on display at ACC until the end of May        April 8, 2018  -  ADS Houston Spring Picnic American Druze Society "Houston Chapter" Date: Sunday April 8, 2018 Time: 11 - 4pm (lunch will be served at 1 pm) Location: Eldridge Park, 2511 Eldridge Rd * Sugar Land, TX 77478 Delicious Beef & Chicken Burgers, Hot Dogs & More Come and Enjoy the Bubble Soccer - Just for fun game, Moonwalk for Kids & more... Make sure to bring soccer balls, footballs, basketballs, volleyball, badminton or any other sporting activity for your enjoyment. This is a Spring-time outdoor picnic, so please prepare accordingly. Indoor seating is also available Ticket: $15 per Person - RSVP & Payment by April 4th - No Tickets will be sold at the door If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Mira Abilmona: 281-839-5600, Mr. Rafik Rada: 832-580-2525      April 6, 2018  -  HPFF Pre-Festival Spring Screenings   Houston Palestine Film Festival Join us for our pre-festival Spring screenings at the University of Houston!   Thanks to a community engagement grant from the Mid-America Arts Alliance, HPFF is partnering with the University of Houston’s Middle East Studies Program, and Arabic Club to bring you films from Palestine and Egypt this April.    Date: Friday, April 6, 2018 Time: 3:00 p.m. Location: University of Houston   Shorts by film production students from: - Dar Al-Kalima University College of Arts and Culture, Bethlehem, Palestine - Arab American National Museum’s Reel Stories: Empowering Young Women through the Art of Filmmaking.   We will Skype with some of the filmmakers after the screenings.   This event is free and open to the public.        April 6, 2018  -  Two Houston Quakers Visit Israel/Palestine   Ever wonder how the $10 million we give to Israel every day is used? Can there ever be peace in Israel / Palestine? What should America's role be there?   Two Quakers went on an interfaith delegation to Palestine and Israel. They will share photos and stories from their experiences after staying with families, meeting with Israeli and Palestinian peace activists and non-governmental organizations and experiencing life on both sides of the separation barrier.   Come and join us, experience life today in the area and learn about the struggles and hopes for the region.   Date: Friday, April 6, 2018 Time: 6:45 pm - 9:00 pm Location: Clear Lake Islamic Center, 17511 El Camino Real, Houston, Texas 77058        April 2-6, 2018  -  Israeli Apartheid Week at University of Houston   Fady Joudah on Art & Resistance Date: Monday, April 2, 2018 Time: 6 PM - 8 PM Location: UH, Honors College Commons   Come join SJP for our first night of Israeli Apartheid Week!   We will have Palestinian American physician, poet, and translator, Dr. Fady Joudah, speak about the significance of art as a form of resistance in the Palestinian context. He has created various collections of award-winning poetry and has famously translated Mahmoud Darwish‘s poems as well. We look forward to seeing you all in the Honors Commons at 6 PM on Monday, April 2nd! Refreshments and snacks will be provided.   Zionism from the Standpoint of Its Victims Date: Tuesday, April 3, 2018 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM Location: UH, McElhinney Hall - Room 116   Come join SJP on our second day of Israeli Apartheid week; Tuesday, April 3rd at 6pm, for a presentation on Zionism--the political movement that led to the establishment of the state of Israel and the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. This presentation will examine Zionism from the standpoint of its victims. It will explore the material considerations confronting earlier Zionist settlers in their quest to establish a state on another people's homeland. Film Screening: Junction 48 Date: Wednesday, April 4, 2019 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM Location: UH Graduate College of Social Work, RM 101   Come join SJP on our third night of Israeli Apartheid Week with the a film directed by Udi Aloni, Junction 48 is the love story of two young Palestinian hip-hop artists who use their music to fight against both the external oppression of Israeli society and the internal repression of their own crime-ridden, conservative community. It depicts a new generation of young Arabs who seek normality through their love and music - and against all the odds. Multimedia Spoken Word: Mohammed El-Kurd Date: Thursday, April 5, 2018 Time: 6 PM - 8 PM Location: UH, Agnes Arnold Hall RM 108   Come join SJP on our fourth night of Israeli Apartheid Week where Palestinian artist Mohammed El - Kurd will be sharing his powerful words that illustrate years of oppression and struggle. “Poetry doesn’t liberate occupied land, nor does it free imprisoned and enslaved nations. What it does, simply, is represent an element that fuels and encourages the souls of the oppressed.” - El-Kurd (WorldPost) Café Palestine: The Art of Existence Date: Friday, April 6, 2018 Time: 7 PM - 9 PM Location: Cafe Mawal, 6006 Fairdale Ln, Houston, Texas 77057   Come join SJP on our fifth and final night of Israeli Apartheid Week, where we will be bringing Palestinian art and performances to you! From Oud players to Dabke, we will have it all! The event will take place in Café Mawal on Friday, April 6th at 7pm. Also, this event is open to the public so make sure you bring out your family and friends to this fun-filled night! If you can't make it but still want to be involved or have questions, email us at sjphouston@gmail.com    For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/SJPUH/.      March 24-25, 2018  -  8th Annual Houston Palestinian Festival   Experience Palestinian culture in downtown Houston! The 8th annual Houston Palestinian Festival is a vibrant two day festival highlighting the rich Palestinian heritage and will take place on March 24th and 25th, 2018.   When: Saturday-Sunday, March 24-25, 2018 Location: Jones Plaza, 600 Louisiana St., Houston 77002   This year's festival will focus on the beautiful history and significance of Jerusalem in Palestinian history. Join us as we say, We are Jerusalem, We are Palestine! At the Houston Palestinian Festival, bring your friends and experience: - A taste of delectable Palestinian cuisine, - The rhythm of live Palestinian folkloric music and songs, - Shopping in a bazaar filled with Palestinian arts, crafts, and beautiful merchandise, - The art of Palestinian embroidery as you watch a traditional fashion show, - A wedding that will take you back to the streets of a Palestinian village, - The wonderful history of the Holy Land. The Houston Palestinian Festival is presented by The Palestinian American Cultural Center.    Visit www.pacchouston.org for more.                March 24, 2018  -  March For Our Lives   On Saturday, March 24 at 9:00 a.m., CAIR – Houston will be joining the March For Our Lives.   Location: Tranquility Park, 400 Rusk St, Houston, Texas 77002 Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00p.m.   Updated information: "We are meeting at 9am where the rally will happen. Then, at 10am, we will begin marching to Ted Cruz's office! We have a parking garage reserved for marchers that holds 3300+, as well as street parking around the area" Alyssa DuPree.   According to the event page: After the recent mass shooting at Stoneman Douglas, students of the school have organized a nationwide protest including Houston, TX to plea for a strengthening of gun laws.   If you would like to have a serious conversation about gun control, the time is now. Students, Teachers, Parents, and concerned citizens are invited to march in solidarity with us. Please share this page with your loved ones and ask them to join as well.   This event is being put together by local students, parents, and teachers hoping to give a voice to those seeking change. Fundraising information: https://www.gofundme.com/march-for-our-lives-houston Sign up to help: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080d45a4ac2ea2fc1-volunteers CAIR – Houston looks forward to everyone coming out for this event in solidarity, in unity.        March 24, 2018  -  Super Muslim Comedy Tour Date: Saturday, March 24, 2018 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM Location: Sugarland Ballroom party hall, 869 Dulles Ave, Stafford, Texas 77477 After the success of our 2017 Comedy tour, We’ve decided it's time to reassemble the league of super funny Muslims from across the country to bring you all a night of hilarity this upcoming spring. Join us in one of five cities around the country, as we spend an evening with Aman Ali, Feraz Ozel, Travina Springer, Ismael Loutfi, Azeem Muhammad, Moses the Comic, and Daina Ali. This laughter-inducing line-up is coming to New York, Houston, Tampa, and Fremont California from March 10th to April 1st– make sure you book early to get tickets for just $20! Complimentary snacks and drinks will be provided. If you have any questions about this event, please email events@pennyappealusa.org or give us a call at (202) 851-2112. The Super Heroes of the Night: Moses the Comic, Aman Ali, Daina Ali & Yasmin Elhady Tickets: Online $20, LATE/at-Door $25, Family+Friends Discount (4-8 tickets) $15   A presentation showcasing Penny Appeal's work supporting orphans in Pakistan, will be included in the event program. We are raising money to build a sustainable OrphanKind Village in Pakistan. Our villages are designed to help transform the lives of disadvantaged orphan children, offering them a better future in a secure family setting. For more information visit www.pennyappealusa.org/orphankind.  LIMITED SEATING! Click here for more details. Other Tour Dates: March 10 – New York City, NY March 24 – Houston, Texas March 25 – Tampa, Florida April 1 – Fremont, California For ages 12+ | Complimentary snacks will be provided                 March 24, 2018  -  A Night for Syria   Join HHRD on March 24th for a night for Syria.   Our brothers and sisters are suffering through harsh winters and scorching hot summers. They do not have access to proper, reliable shelter, clean water, enough food, or weather appropriate clothes.   They need our help and support!   Joining us as speakers will be Imam Suhaib Webb and Shaykh Eiad Soudan and one of our well-known community activist, Zainab Ghwari with eyewitness accounts from the Syrian Refugee camps in Jordan. RSVP now! -> tinyurl.com/ANightforSyria If you can not make it please invite others!   Click here for event flyer.        March 23, 2018  -  Muslims in the Age of Activism Date: Friday, March 23, 2018 Time: 8 PM - 10 PM Location: ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center, 3110 Eastside St, Houston, Texas 77098   Muslims in the Age of Activism with Chris Abdur-Rahman Blauvelt and Hassan Shibly   CHRIS BLAUVELT is the founder of LaunchGood. He is a passionate Muslim American entrepreneur committed to building up the global Muslim community to reach its full potential. In just over a year LaunchGood has already helped raise over $1 million for more than 100 campaigns across 13 countries. Chris currently lives in Dearborn, Michigan with his wife Amani and new daughter Maryam Yusra, and is an active community volunteer for University Muslim life and new Muslim work.   HASSAN SHIBLY is Executive Director of CAIR Florida. He has appeared numerous times in both local and national media outlets including CNN, NPR, Voice of America, the New York Times, the Toronto Star and the Buffalo News for his work protecting civil liberties and promoting understanding of the Muslim faith. He runs a successful academic publishing company focusing on the traditional Islamic sciences, and is the founder of the Center for American Muslim Understanding. Hassan’s work has earned him the attention of various Islamophobic publications, which criticize Hassan for "deceiving the American People" by "promoting a peaceful and tolerant image of Islam.".       Hosted by ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center and Risala Foundation.   For more information, click here.         March 23, 2018  -  Arab Heritage Month: Journey West Ensemble Featuring Imad AlTaha   Fifth Annual Arab Heritage Month Kick-off Event by The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) Houston   Opening Night Concert    A Beautiful Evening of Arabic Music with Iraqi virtuoso violinist Imad Al Taha and Journey West. Imad is a master of Iraqi, Turkish, Kurdish and Gulf styles with a broad repertoire which draws from countries all throughout the Middle-East.   Imad's performance with the group Journey West at the Arab-American Cultural Center will feature Iraqi, Syrian, Lebanese and Egyptian Music. The concert includes compositions by Ryad Al-Sunbati and Mohammed Abdel Wahab.   Date: Friday, March 23, 2018 Time: 8 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road- Houston 77099   To purchase Tickets: https://journeywestmusicatacc.eventbrite.com VIP Seating: $15 Limited 60 seats- Front Three Rows General Admission: $10       March 16, 2018  -  Threads of Giving Gala Honoring Mr. Farouk Shami   The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP)’s inaugural Threads of Giving Gala will honor businessman and innovator Farouk Shami with the first ever Outstanding Arab American Philanthropist Award, recognizing his charitable efforts both at home and internationally.   The evening will include a VIP reception followed by a seated dinner and classical Arabic musical program from Le Trio Joubran. Dress code is business formal attire.    Date: Friday, March 16, 2018 Time: 6:30pm to 9:30pm Location: The Houstonian Hotel, 111 N Post Oak Ln, Houston, TX 77024    The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP), an ACCESS institution, is a national community foundation with the objective to unite and empower the Arab American community by demonstrating the impact of giving together. CAAP improves communities through grantmaking, serves donors by providing smart charitable giving tools, and shapes perceptions about Arab Americans by highlighting their exceptional contributions to society.   For more information and/or to purchase tickets, click here.         March 15, 2018  -  Protecting Places of Worship Forum   Date: March 15, 2018 Time: 6:00pm Location: Rice University's BioScience Research Collaborative - Room 280, Houston   Click here for more details.        March 10, 2018  -  Palestinian Babke by Jerusalem  Dabke Troupe     Date: March 10, 2018 Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm Location: City Center, 800 Town and Country Blvd., Houston, Texas      Click here for event flyer.         March 4, 2018  -  Hakawati Night   The Syrian American Club invites you to attend Hakawati Night on Sunday, March 4 from 4 to 6 pm!   Dr. Ahmad Moutasem Pacha will be at Al-Sham Center telling stories combining poetry and humor.     Date: March 4, 2018 Time: 4pm to 6pm Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, Texas 77056   If you are interested to attend this event, please RSVP here.   Event flyer.         February 26, 2018 (deadline to enter)  -  PACC Talent Show     The Palestinian American Cultural Center (PACC) is excited to announce that it will host a TALENT SHOWCASE at its 8th Annual Houston Palestinian Festival.   We are looking for talented youth who LOVE PALESTINE and LOVE TO PERFORM!   All Friends of Palestine and PACC are welcome so invite friends and family to put together a unique act! (Singing, Dancing, Performance Art, Instruments, etc. are welcome)   Come share your talents with thousands of audience members that attend the Houston Palestinian Festival each year!             For more details and/or to submit an entry, visit http://pacchouston.org/talentshow/.      February 25, 2018  -  "The Chronicles of the Syrian Revolution: The Orphan Uprising the Entire World Betrayed" Book Signing Event      New book signing event 'The Chronicles of the Syrian Revolution: The Orphan Uprising the Entire World Betrayed' by Syrian American Author and Poet Tarif Youssef-Agha.   Date: February 25, 2018 Time: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM Location: Barnes & Noble Book Store, 7626 Westheimer Rd @ Voss, Houston, TX 77063   This book is simply the memoir of the Syrian Revolution in its six-year journey, all through the eyes of a Syrian poet who lived his youth in the capital city of Damascus. Beginning on the first Friday after the revolution started and every Friday thereafter, the Syrians made it a habit, taking to the streets to demonstrate against the regime. They also gave names to those Fridays to reflect the current events. The first one was the Friday of Dignity (3/18/11), then Friday of Glory (3/25/11), Friday of Martyrs (4/1/11), Friday of Withstanding (4/8/11), Friday of Insistence (4/15/11), and so on until today, which sums up to more than three hundred Fridays.   The author started firing poems in support of the revolution and also to document its events week after week for the next six years. He managed to translate almost half of them to put in this book. Listing the poems in order takes the reader on a journey throughout the ups and downs of the revolution and helps him to understand what happened, when, and why. His writings are not only full of fury and power, confidence, and hope, but also satire and wit, which characterize the people of that historic city.          February 24, 2018  -  Amer Zahr in Houston with the Hilarious Mona     Palestinian Arab American comedian Amer Zahr is coming to Houston with special guest Mona!    Date: Saturday, February 24, 2018 Time: 8:00 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099     Presented by Hani Kashou and Maestro Productions.   To purchase tickets, visit http://www.amerzahr.com/.         Click here for more information/event flyer.      February 18, 2018  -  Tour of The al-Sabah Collection in Arabic Please join us for an Arabic-language tour of Art in Islamic Lands: Selections from the al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait Given by Mutlaq al-Juraid, Assistant Curator, The al-Sabah Collection. Date: Sunday, February 18, 2018 Time: 4:00 pm Location: Law Building Lobby, MFAH   For more information, click here.       February 18, 2018  -  Space City Performing Arts presents: From New York to Cairo   Space City Performing Arts presents 'From New York to Cairo.' This percussion-focused concert is an exploration of new works from composers with roots in Middle-Eastern classical music. With expert craftsmanship, these composers weave together traditions of the East and West, creating something entirely new. By the end of the evening, we hope everyone will have discovered the vast artistic possibilities that arise when cultures collide. Works by Kareem Roustom, Halim El-Dabh, and Erberk Eryilmaz Performers:   Soprano - Ofelia Williams   Violin - Michael Ferri   Viola - Hannah Martineau   Saxophone - Ellie Parker   Percussion - Jamey Kollar   *Program directed by Hannah Martinueau   Date: Sunday, February 18, 2018 Time: 4 PM - 6 PM (Doors open at 3:30pm. Music starts at 4:00pm) Location: Rec Room, 100 Jackson St., Houston, Texas 77002   About Space City Performing Arts:   Space City Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) not for profit music organization based in Houston, Texas. The organization was founded in 2002, known as Space City Percussion. The Inaugural project of Space City Percussion, Space City Gamelan, has been recognized by cultural organizations such as the Asian Pacific American Heritage Association, The Asia Society Texas, The Dallas Museum of Art and has given community performances at TEDx Houston, Discovery Green, International Festival in Downtown Houston, Bayou City Arts Festival, and numerous other performances around Houston.   Under Space City Performing Arts, the mission of the organization is to become a creative force and educational resource for the community of Houston by providing opportunities to preserve, discover, and advance efforts in the performing arts.   Our vision at Space City Performing Arts is to present traditional music from around the world, present new and imaginative works that integrate other performing art forms, provide educational and performance opportunities to aspiring musicians and professional musicians.   www.spacecityperformingarts.org         February 17, 2018  -  Friends of Egyptian Children with Cancer Gala   Friends of Egyptian Children with Cancer is having their 17th Annual Fundraising Gala. FECC’s Vision is to provide a cure for the Children of Egypt afflicted with Cancer. Date: Saturday, February 17, 2018 Time: 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm Location: Double Tree by Hilton – Greenway Plaza, 6 Greenway Plaza, Houston, TX 77046   Guest Speaker: Miral Kotb - CEO & Founder of iLuminate Hear a great story of courage from one of our own young Egyptian Americans who is winning her fight against cancer....   Entertainment by: iLuminate   Silent & Live Auctions   Ticket Price: Adult: $150/person or $1500/table of 10, Children: $100 (6 - 11 years) All reservations must be received no later than February 14th, 2018    How to Purchase Gala Tickets   1. Mail-in reservations (by check written to FECC)   Fill out the enclosed Gala Reservation Form and mail it with your check to:   FECC, P.O. Box 155, Bellaire, TX 77402-0155     2. On-line reservations (by credit/debit card)   Visit the FECC website at www.fecchouston.org/events/fecc-gala-reservation.   To ensure seating of guests at your table, please list their first and last names on the mail-in or on-line reservation form and if a vegetarian meal is required.   If you cannot attend, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to FECC. If you would like to sponsor the Gala, Sponsorships ($2,500 or more) will be greatly appreciated.   FECC is a Non-profit 501 (c) (3) Organization. For more information call Dr. Samia Khalil 713-822-7073   For more information, visit www.fecchouston.org.     February 17, 2018  -  Islamic Roots in the Latino Culture   Click here for English Flyer.   Click here for Spanish Flyer.       February 16, 2018  -  Raising American Muslim Kids in the Trump Years    Speaker: Wajahat Ali   Date: Friday, February 16, 2018 Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Location: ILM Academy, 1209 Conrad Sauer Dr, Houston, Texas 77043   Risala Foundation is pleased to welcome back Wajahat Ali!   Wajahat Ali is a journalist, writer, lawyer, an award-winning playwright, a TV host, and a consultant for the U.S. State Department. As Creative Director of Affinis Labs, he works to create social entrepreneurship initiatives that have a positive impact for marginalized communities, and to empower social entrepreneurs, young leaders, creatives, and communities to come up with innovative solutions to tackle world problems.   Previously, Ali helped launch the Al Jazeera America network as co-host of Al Jazeera America's The Stream, a daily news show that extended the conversation to social media and beyond. He was also a National Correspondent, Political Reporter, and Social Media Expert for Al Jazeera America. He focused on stories of communities and individuals often marginalized or under-reported in mainstream media. Ali is also the author of The Domestic Crusaders—the first major play about Muslim Americans, post-9/11—which was published by McSweeney's and performed off-Broadway and at the Kennedy Center. Currently, with Dave Eggers, Ali is writing a television show about a Muslim American cop in the Bay Area. He was also the lead author and researcher of “Fear Inc., Roots of the Islamophobia Network in America,” the seminal report from the Center for American Progress.   In addition, he was honored as a “Generation Change Leader” by Sec. of State Clinton and as an “Emerging Muslim American Artist” by the Muslim Public Affairs Council. Ali has given many presentations, from Google to the United Nations to Princeton to The Abu Dhabi Book Festival. His writings have appeared in the New York Times, the Atlantic, Washington Post, the Guardian, and Salon.    For more information, click here.        January 2-February 12, 2018  -  Ramadan Food Campaign: Let's Feed 800 Syrian Refugee Families     We are happy to announce our first campaign of 2018!!!   The goal is the same as last year’s, to feed 800 Syrian Refugee Families this Ramadan!   Let us make it a habit to put a smile on another person’s face. Share this with your loved ones and let us recruit as many people as possible. Check the flyer above for more details.   Items being accepted are:   1 x Rice (20 lbs)   1 x Pinto Beans (8 lbs)   2 x Pure Sugar (8 lbs)   1 x Vegetable Oil (1 Gal)   1 x Black Tea (8 oz)   4 x Spaghetti (32 oz) *All Items must be (Great Value) Walmart Brand. Drop Off Location: 10401 Rockley Rd. Houston TX 77099 Collection Dates: January 2nd- February 12th.   Contact: Maaz Adil 281-468-2238 Yousra Alshorafa 281-912-8986     Helping Hand for Relief and Development Houston    Click here for more details.        February 10, 2018  -  Wondrous Worlds: Art & Islam through Time Place    Join the Arab American Center (ACC) and Asia Society for a special curator-led tour of their current exhibition Wondrous World: Art & Islam Through Time & Place.   The tour will take place on Saturday February 10 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.   Featuring more than 100 outstanding works of art, Wondrous Worlds showcases the long history, vast geographic expanse, and amazing diversity of works of art in the Islamic world.   Works in the exhibition cover nearly all media, ranging from carpets to dress to jewelry, ceramics, glass, metal, paintings, prints, calligraphy and photographs. This exhibition will delight viewers with dazzling works that span over 1,400 years of artistry.   For more information about the exhibition visit the website http://asiasociety.org/texas/exhibitions/wondrous-worlds-art-islam-through-time-place   The tour will start at 10:30 a.m. sharp and last approximately 1 hour. Space is limited to twenty five and will fill up on a first come first serve basis. Don't delay signing up.   This event is free but RSVP is required   Venue: Asia Society, Address: 1370 Southmore Blvd. Houston, TX 77004 Tour Time: 10:30 a.m. But please come 10 minutes early. Tel: 713.496.9901   We look forward to seeing you there.   For any questions, please email president@acchouston.org.         February 7, 2018  -  Amnesty International Houston with special guest speaker Gislaine Williams   Amnesty International Houston with special guest speaker Gislaine Williams from the Refugee Council USA (RCUSA)   A coalition of 23 national organizations that work to protect refugees and asylum-seekers and advocate for human rights in the United States.   She has previously worked with the American Civil Liberties Union Immigrants’ Rights Project and the Alliance for Multicultural Community Services in Houston.   Date: February 7, 2018 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Location: Central Market Community Room, 3815 Westheimer, Houston Free and open to the public For more info, find us on Facebook , Twitter, or email us; mail@amnestyhouston.org        February 4, 2018  -  An Update on "Gifts from Damascus" Classical guitarist Susan McDonald will return to the Church and Society Series on February 4th to give an update on The Orontes Guitar Quartet, their evacuation from Syria and efforts to relocate them permanently. She will also talk about working with students last summer in Northern Iraq and Beirut and through Yes Academy. She will perform some of her newly composed music reflecting the cultures of Northern Iraq, Beirut and Syria. Please come and hear more of Susan's commitment to helping those isolated and traumatized by war in the Middle East.   Date: Sunday, February 4, 2018 Time: 9:30 am Location: St. Philip Presbyterian Church, Room 201   Susan McDonald has delighted audiences the world over -- from community concerts to Carnegie Hall. Her audiences have ranged from Holocaust survivors in a Viennese nursing home to the President of the United States, and her music has been enthusiastically received in concert halls, universities, festivals, elementary schools, hospitals, refugee camps and tiny Amazon villages. Susan is a protege of the legendary guitar master Pepe Romero and studied at University of St. Thomas in Houston, the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria and a residency at the Banff Centre for the Arts in the Canadian Rockies. She tours with Texas Commission of the Arts, Mid-American Arts Alliance and Young Audiences of Houston and has created classical guitar programs for the YES Academies in Iraq and Lebanon and is the Artistic Director and Director of International Programs for Fine Arts Foundation.   This event is co-sponsored collaboration between the Boniuk Institute and St. Philip Presbyterian Church. Learn more about the Church & Society Series at St. Philip Presbyterian Church.   For more information, click here.         Beginning February 3, 2018  -  Taekwondo Classes at ACC    Kick and fit Taekwondo classes at our ACC Center   Time: Saturdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Fees: $70 per month Location: Arab American Cultural and Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099   Open for kids ages 3 and up & for adults!   Benefits for Families   Online Practice Materials   Tracking Student Progress with Video   Internationally Recognized Black Belt Program   Multiple locations in the area to make-up classes or increase the number of training days   Qualified Female Instructor to teach women's only classes Credentials: - Fit and Kick is certified with the International Taekwondo Federation founded by General Choi Hong Hi. - Masters and Instructors are professional teachers with an International Taekwon-do Federation certified program http://www.taekwondoitf.org - A recognized school on the Federation's USA page http://www.itf-usa.org/locations.html   To register, please click on www.fitandkick.com/register   For questions and inquiries, please call Alyssa Alfaleet at (832) 800-6600 or email fitandkick@hotmail.com.          February 1, 2018  -  "1918: The End of the Great War in the Middle East and the Genesis of a Century of Conflict"   The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Houston and The Arab-American Education Foundation Chair in Modern Arab History welcome you to The Nijad and Zeina Fares Arab-American Educational Foundation Annual Distinguished Lecture in Modern Arab Studies "1918: The End of the Great War in the Middle East and the Genesis of a Century of Conflict" by Professor Eugene Rogan (University of Oxford).   Date: Thursday, February 1, 2018 Time: Reception 6:00 pm, Lecture 6:30 pm Location: University of Houston Alumni Association O'Quinn Great Hall, 3204 Cullen Boulevard Nearest Parking: TDECU Stadium Garage 3537-, 3579 Scott St, Houston, TX 77004   Eugene Rogan (PhD, Harvard University) is Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History and Director of the Middle East Centre at St Antony’s College, University of Oxford. In 2017, he was elected as a Fellow of the British Academy, the highest academic honor in the United Kingdom. His books include Frontiers of the State in the Late Ottoman Empire, for which he received the Albert Hourani Book Award of the Middle East Studies Association of North America and the Fuad Köprülü Prize of the Turkish Studies Association; The Arabs: A History, which was a bestselling work translated in ten languages and was named as one of the best books of 2009 by The Economist, The Financial Times, and The Atlantic Monthly. Most recently, Professor Rogan has published The Fall of the Ottomans: The Great War in the Middle East which was selected as an Economist book of the year for 2015 and a Telegraph best book of the year for 2015. Click here for event flyer.         January 28, 2018  -  Town Hall Meeting with Congressional Candidate Dr. Jason Westin    For all our Arab American Community in town,   Dr. Jason Westin, a Congressional Candidate (7th Congressional District of Texas), approached the ACC and expressed interest in meeting with the Arab American Community in Houston to hear their specific needs and issues of importance to them. At the same time, the community can learn the issues and priorities that Dr. Westin focuses on.   The Town hall meeting will take place this coming Sunday, January 28th, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Arab American Center, located at 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston, Texas 77099. The meeting is free and open to all.   Disclaimer: The Arab American Cultural and Community Center is non-profit non-partisan organization that does not support nor endorse any political candidate or party. We welcome all candidates to meet with their constituents and hear their take on issues. Should another candidate wish to come and speak on that day, or another day, they are welcome to contact the ACC to arrange the same.            January 28, 2018  -  "The Chronicles of the Syrian Revolution: The Orphan Uprising the Entire World Betrayed" Book Signing Event      New book signing event 'The Chronicles of the Syrian Revolution: The Orphan Uprising the Entire World Betrayed' by Syrian American Author and Poet Tarif Youssef-Agha.   Date: January 28, 2018 Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Location: River Oaks Bookstore, 3270 Westheimer, Houston, Texas 77098   This book is simply the memoir of the Syrian Revolution in its six-year journey, all through the eyes of a Syrian poet who lived his youth in the capital city of Damascus. Beginning on the first Friday after the revolution started and every Friday thereafter, the Syrians made it a habit, taking to the streets to demonstrate against the regime. They also gave names to those Fridays to reflect the current events. The first one was the Friday of Dignity (3/18/11), then Friday of Glory (3/25/11), Friday of Martyrs (4/1/11), Friday of Withstanding (4/8/11), Friday of Insistence (4/15/11), and so on until today, which sums up to more than three hundred Fridays.   The author started firing poems in support of the revolution and also to document its events week after week for the next six years. He managed to translate almost half of them to put in this book. Listing the poems in order takes the reader on a journey throughout the ups and downs of the revolution and helps him to understand what happened, when, and why. His writings are not only full of fury and power, confidence, and hope, but also satire and wit, which characterize the people of that historic city.          January 26, 2018  -  Islamophobia- A Threat to All   Speaker: Dalia Mogahed   Date: Friday, January 26, 2018 Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Location: ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center, 3110 Eastside St, Houston, Texas 77098   Dalia Mogahed is a researcher, pollster, author, advisor and consultant who studies Muslim communities. As director of research at the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, Dalia Mogahed keeps her finger on the pulse of the Muslim world. She served on Obama’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships in 2009, advising the president on how faith-based organizations can help government solve persistent social problems. Mogahed is former Executive Director of the Gallup Center for Muslim Studies, a non-partisan research center that provided data and analysis to reflect the views of Muslims all over the world. She and John Esposito co-authored the book Who Speaks For Islam?: What a Billion Muslims Really Think, based on 6 years of research and more than 50,000 interviews representing Muslims in more than 35 predominantly Muslim countries. Accounting for more than 90% of the world's Muslim community, this poll is the largest, most comprehensive study of its kind. Mogahed later appeared as a commentator in the award-winning, PBS-broadcast documentary Inside Islam: What a Billion Muslims Really Think (2010), which was based on her and Esposito's book and produced by Unity Productions Foundation.     Hosted by ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center and Risala Foundation.         January 26, 2018  -  ACC Ladies' Night Group Gathering   The ACC Ladies' Night Out Group At Bait Al-Arab (ACC)   Date: Friday, January 26, 2018 Time: 6-9pm Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099   Happy New Year   FASHION & TALENT SHOW BY YOU   The ladies at Bait AlArab welcomes all community ladies to our monthly ladies night gathering, celebrating and welcoming the 2018 New Year at the ACC on Friday January 26th at 6 pm.   Come join us for a night full of fun and entertainment • If you are talented be ready to present and share. • Dress up with your formal dresses to model. • Let's party and dance . • Games, raffle Door prize Bazzar and much more. • Bring a warm dish to share . • Be ready to dance and Let us have fun. • Spread the word to all your friends and neighbors.      Don't miss a night full of fun, education and entertainment. Kids between age of 3 and 12 will have to be in a separate room with the babysitter, No exceptions please!   Babysitting will be charged $5.00/child.   The ACC does not bear responsibility for any harm that could happen to your child who is not baby seated. To book a table for the Bazaar, please contact (832) 351-3366.           January 21, 2018  -  Ambassadors of Palestine Band in Houston   Date: Sunday, January 21, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Location: Stafford Civic Center, 1415 Constitution Ave, Stafford, TX 77477   Free Admission for children under 10.   For tickets and more information, call 832-549-5053 | 281-686-8121 | 713-820-3055 | 832-800-2661    Organized by Palestinian American Council (www.pac-usa.org).       Click here for more information/event flyer.          January 20, 2018  -  Houston Women's March     Why We March: The 2018 elections are crucial for the future of our nation. We must elect progressive leaders in Austin and DC. If the Houston region generates a massive progressive wave during the primaries and in the general election, we change Texas. If we change Texas, we change America. The power is in your hands!   The Houston Women March is helping women in the counties around Houston reach progressives and allies to Rise Up, March, Unite, and VOTE. After the March, these Greater Houston county chapters will work with local and regional organizations to elect progressives in the primaries as well as the general election in November.   Gather on Sat. 1/20/18 By 9:30 am, Buffalo Bayou Waterworks Building: 105 Sabine Street (77007)   March: 10 am • We start marching to City Hall   Route • HPD will guide the March along a route they designate for Marchers’ safety Rally: City Hall • Join Kam from the Suffers, DJ Gracie, and more to inspire a progressive wave of action! For more information, visit www.houstonwomensmarch.org/.             January 20, 2018  -  MAS Katy Family Day     We are looking forward to seeing you all at the Family Day. In addition to all the good food and fun activities for kids, we have also invited Br. Fahad Tasleem as our guest speaker for the event. So don't miss it!   Family Day: BBQ and a lot of fun for kids   Date: Saturday, January 20, 2018 Time: 12 noon Location: George Bush Park Rugby Fields, Pavilion # 2, 16756 Westheimer Pkwy, Houston 77082   RSVP at social@maskaty.org.     Fahad Tasleem is the founder of DC Seminary, an institute focused on spiritually empowering working professionals, graduates & college students. He also serves as the lead instructor of iERA US (the Islamic Education & Research Academy). His diverse study & research interests include Qur’anic Studies, Dawah, Islamic & Comparative Theology, Behavioral Economics, Economic History, and Arabic Linguistics. Fahad holds a bachelors in Economics from Michigan State University and a Masters in Business Taxation from the University of Southern California. He studied Arabic at Georgetown University and the University of Texas at Austin.         January 15, 2018  -  40th Annual “Original” Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Holiday Celebration     Monday, January 15, 2018 Minute Maid Park - Downtown Houston   NOTE: This year’s parade will begin at the corner of Texas & Crawford (Minute Maid Park) on Monday, January 15th, 2018 in Downtown Houston.    To inspire, teach, and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the weekend of the federal holiday occurring on the third Monday of each January with commemorative parade and celebratory festive community activities throughout the weekend. The Black Heritage Society has a long history of fighting for equal justice and social accommodations for the rights of all. The Black Heritage Society Organization subscribes to Activism, Advocacy, and Action on behalf of the underprivileged, underserved, and those seeking justice and equality.     For more information, visit http://blackheritagesociety.org/.      January 13, 2018  -  Islam in America Hosted by Sisters Committee of ISGH Date: Saturday, January 13, 2018 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Location: ISGH River Oaks Islamic Center, 3110 Eastside St, Houston, Texas 77098   Join us as we dive deeper into the complex and rich history of Muslims in the United States, explore our current state and look at the possibilities our future holds.   Highlights include a historical timeline of Muslims and Mosques in the United States and Houston, Yaqeen Institute and ISPU research and workshops that engage the entire audience.   For more information, click here.       January 12, 2018  -  The Other Side of Hope   This wry, melancholic comedy from Aki Kaurismäki—whose films the MFAH has premiered for more than three decades—speaks to the current refugee situation. Khaled (Sherwan Haji), a displaced Syrian, lands in Helsinki as a stowaway. Meanwhile, middle-aged salesman Wikström (Sakari Kuosmanen) leaves behind his wife and job and improbably buys a seafood restaurant. Despite being denied asylum, Khaled remains in Finland, and the paths of the two men cross fortuitously.   A bittersweet tale of human kindness, The Other Side of Hope is as deadpan as the best of the director’s work, with a deep well of empathy for its down-but-not-out characters—many of them played by members of Kaurismäki's ever-reliable stock company.   Upcoming Showtimes:    Friday, Jan 12: 7 p.m.    Saturday, Jan 13: 7 p.m.    Sunday, Jan 14: 5 p.m.   For more information, visit https://www.mfah.org/calendar/the-other-side-of-hope.       January 11, 2018  -  ACC Banquet Hall Open House - Free Admission   You are cordially invited to attend the ACC's Banquet Hall, The ACC Farouk Shami Hall, on Thursday January 11th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Get to meet our various vendors and get a sample of their delicious treats.   Our Farouk Shami Hall is conveniently located at the intersection of Beltway 8 and HW 59, only 15 minutes from the Galleria. With a capacity of 420 guests, our Hall is your ideal venue for your special events, Weddings, Graduation parties, Quinceañera, fundraising functions, and other special events.   Book with us within a week from the open house and receive a $500 discount. Events booked on the open house night will also receive in addition a special Free Valet Parking for their booked future event!   Admissions are free but RSVP is highly requested.   For more information, please email us at accballroom@gmail.com or call: (832)351-3366 Farouk Shami Banquet Hall.   The Arab American Cultural & Community Center Location: 10555 Stancliff Rd. Houston TX 77099

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