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.

2023 Past Events	Click here for a list of UPCOMING events._

December 22-24, 2023 - MAS Houston Convention   MAS - ICNA - UHMSA    Leading the Way: Muslims Reviving Family Values     Join us for an unforgettable weekend celebrating the essence of "Reviving Family Values" within our community! Prepare to be enlightened by captivating experiences for the entire family and immerse yourself in thought-provoking discussions that will deepen you understanding of Family in Islam!   We're proud to see how Muslims around the world are championing the importance of family values! Let's continue to uphold and spread the essence of love, respect, and unity in our families, leading by example for a brighter future!    Date: December 22-24, 2023 Location: Houston Marriott Westchase, 2900 Briarpark Dr, Houston, TX 77042   For more information: https://www.masconventionhtx.org/

December 19, 2023 - Demand an Immediate & Permanent Ceasefire   HOUSTON: OUT FOR PALESTINE Join PYM and our coalition partners at 1:00 PM in City Hall for Mayor Sylvester Turner’s final meeting as we demand the council call for an immediate, permanent ceasefire to end Israel's genocide on Gaza!   For weeks, Houston community members have packed city hall demanding that our council call for an immediate, lasting ceasefire.   As our calls for Palestinian freedom ring loudly on the streets and through our actions, we must demand that our city officially heed our demands.   Bring your flags, bring your signs, and JOIN US THIS TUESDAY!   Date: December 19, 2023 Time: 1:00 pm Location: Houston’s City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, TX   Event Flyer.

December 17, 2023 - Community Meditation for Peace and Healing   Join us for this FREE community meditation for peace and healing from the war on Palestine and its people with a coffee break to follow. All ages are welcome.   Meditation lead by Sara Shouhayib Alawar.    Date: Sunday, December 17, 2023 Time: 2 - 4 pm Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099      Event Flyer.

December 17, 2023 - "Aging and Nutrition" Part 3   The Syrian American Club invites you to attend “Aging and Nutrition” part 3, a talk by Dr. Abdel Kader Fustok.   Come and hear Dr. Fustok describe his journey from a smoker “couch potato” to Ironman, and what he has learned about the intersection of aging and nutrition.   Note that you do not necessarily need to have attended Part 1 or 2 to attend part 3.   Date: Sunday, December 17, 2023 Time: 3 pm Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057      Event Flyer.

December 16, 2023 - Protest for Palestine   We call on the community to join us as we continue to #shutitdown for Palestine, stand against Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza, and reject the US government’s refusal to call for a permanent ceasefire.   Meet us on Saturday 12/16 at Houston’s City Hall where we will demand a full and permanent ceasefire, an end to US complicity, an end to the siege on Gaza, the release of all Palestinian prisoners, and the liberation of all Palestinian land!    Date: December 16, 2023 Time: 1 pm Location: Houston’s City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, TX   Event Flyer.

December 15, 2023 - Make Art for Palestine   Make art for Palestine with us this Friday to raise money for SJP's Gala4Gaza in January, in benefit of the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund.   There is a recommended donation of $5 per person for attending Friday's art making, which will go towards holding our PCRF gala in January. Come out and make your best Palestine art—it's going to be auctioned at the gala!   Date: Friday, December 15, 2023 Time: 4-8 PM Location: 20 N Sampson St (@weststreetrecovery)   Event Flyer.

December 15, 2023 - Together for the Children of Gaza   Experience an upcoming soul-stirring evening with the extraordinary remarkable محمد طارق-Mohamed Tarek in Houston, Texas.   Every ticket is a lifeline for the resilient Children of Gaza, facing the harsh realities of war and destruction.   Your presence becomes a powerful act of support, creating a symphony of hope amid the challenges they endure.     Date: Friday, December 15, 2023 Time: 7:00 PM Location: The Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria, 2222 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027   Secure your seat now and be part of this impactful journey. https://linktr.ee/rahmaworldwide

December 12, 2023 - Demand an Immediate & Permanent Ceasefire      Date: December 12, 2023 Time: 1:30 pm Location: Houston’s City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, TX   Event Flyer.

December 11, 2023 - Global Strike Houston Banner Drop     Date: December 11, 2023 Time: 4 pm Location: 59 Bridges, Dunlavy St. (Parking: Dunlavy Park)   Event Flyer.

December 9-10, 2023 - 10th Annual Islamic Arts Festival    The festival will feature art from renowned artists from all across the USA and is the largest and oldest festival of Islamic arts in the USA.   This year we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Islamic Arts Festival. This will be our special EXTRAVAGANZA event with many special activities and art events planned around the two-day festival.   Islamic Arts Society aims to share the rich heritage of Islamic Arts. The society organizes events to celebrate Islamic culture and promote the positive image of the Muslim community. Art is a common language and binds diverse communities. By promoting Islamic arts, we hope to promote mutual understanding and bring the broader American community together.   During the two-day festival, visitors will have the opportunity to see the work of artists who will be available in person. They will be able to browse through our festival hall and purchase magnificent pieces of art for their homes. Visitors will also be able to take part in interactive art sessions, learn about Islamic art and culture, as well as enjoy ethnic cuisine from food trucks. In addition, there will be live demonstrations on calligraphy, henna tattoos, Ebru, painting, Arabesque pattern coloring, and lots of children’s art activities.   Date: December 9-10, 2023 Time: 10.30 AM till 5.00 PM Location: Masjid Al-Salam, 16700 Old Louetta Rd., Spring (Houston), TX 77379   Free Admissions! All Welcome!   For more information: https://islamicartssociety.org/10th-annual-islamic-arts-festival/

December 10, 2023 - Palestine Solidarity Film Screening: Naila and the Uprising Join Houston DSA for a solidarity screening of Naila and the Uprising directed by Julia Bacha. The film chronicles the remarkable journey of Naila Ayesh and the realization of the women’s movement during the First Intifada. Palestinian resistance and resilience are key topics in this film, but there is also an unshakeable and unbreakable hope that is brought to life in this story. Food will be provided with a group discussion following the film!      Date: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 1-3 pm Location: Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, 2506 Sutherland St, Houston, TX 77023    More info at https://houstondsa.org/event/palestine-solidarity-film-screening-naila-and-the-uprising/

December 9, 2023 - Palestine Day   Learn & Experience the History & Culture of Palestine from Gaza to Bethlehem.   Educational Exhibits, Palestinian Vendors, Children's Activities, and more!   Including special exhibits of Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity and Church of St. Porphyrius in Gaza.    Date: Saturday, December 9, 2023 Time: 1 PM - 7 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099   Event Flyer

December 8, 2023 - Shut It Down for Palestine Protest    HOUSTON Call To Action!   We call on the Houston community and supporters to join us as we #ShutItDown for Palestine and make our stance clear as we stand against Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza.   Meet us at 4 pm on Friday 12/8 at the Israeli Consulate where we will demand a full and permanent ceasefire, an end to U.S. complicity, the end of the siege on Gaza, the release of all Palestinian prisoners, and an end to the occupation!     Date: Friday, December 8, 2023 Time: 4 pm Location: In front of the Consulate General of Israel, 24 Greenway Plaza, Houston 77046    Event Flyer

December 5, 2023 - Gilgamesh, an Ancient Voice    The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project Closing Event   Discover the world’s first story and learn about a hero who searched for the secret of immortality at a mini-marathon reading of Gilgamesh. Copies of the book will be available for sale for you to follow along as people from all walks of life in Houston participate in relating a story as relevant to humanity today as when it emerged from the Marshes over 5,000 years ago.   Then, join us as we bid goodbye to the mudhif. On its last night in Houston, we will sing a lament and extinguish the lights that have illuminated it since we opened it to the public in September.     Date: Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Time: 7pm-10pm Location: Glasscock School Auditorium, Rice University, Houston, Texas    FREE ADMISSION   For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar   Event Flyer

December 3, 2023 - Samurai Karate Dojo - Self Defense Seminar   Building awareness of community safety.   Mental and physical Self-defense techniques. For Males and Females, ages 14 and up! Limited spots available.    Date: Sunday, December 3, 2023 Time: 10:00am-1:00pm Location: 12500 Oxford Park Dr., Houston, TX 77082

December 3, 2023 - ACC Arabic Poetry Recital   Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Date: Sunday, December 3, 2023 Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Road, Houston, TX 77099

December 2, 2023 - The Immigrant Story & Dealing with Tragedies Away from Home   The Journeys of Our People over Three Centuries and How to Deal with Tragedies/Crisis Away from Home   This luncheon promises to be a moment of solace and reflection, and we will delve into two compelling topics.    Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023 Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Location: Fadi's Mediterranean Grill, 12360 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077   For more information and/or to register: https://alcchouston.org/event-5408740   Click here for event flyer.

December 2, 2023 - Make Palestine Unavoidable   HOUSTON Make Palestine Unavoidable at the Mayor’s Tree Lighting! Israel has resumed its atrocities in Gaza and we call on the Houston community to join us to make Palestine unavoidable at the Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular.   This year, Jerusalem's 13 official churches and the Bethlehem Municipality itself has called to suspend Christmas celebrations in mourning for the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Join us as we honor the call from Christians in Palestine to spend this holiday season standing against the genocide of Palestinians being carried out in our name with our tax dollars.   Meet at Houston Central Library and make sure to wear kuffiyas, bring Palestinian flags, banners, and signs!      Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023 Time: 5:30 PM Location: Houston Central Library       Event Flyer

December 2, 2023 - Palestine Lives!   Join us for a showcasing of Palestinian art, music, literature and culture.   Join us for a demonstration of solidarity across global liberation movements.   Join us to dream of collective liberation and a Free Palestine!     Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023 Time: 6 pm Location: Provisional Campus Facility 1 (PCF1)/Grad Student Bubble, Rice University, Houston     Event flyer

December 2, 2023 - Ball for Palestine   Ball For Palestine + Sports Tourney + Halal Food Fest      Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023 Time: 8:00PM - 2:00AM Location: The Zone, 10371 Stella Link Rd, Houston, Texas 77025      Registration Event flyer

December 1, 2023 - The War on Palestine and the Politics of History   Please join the University of Houston’s Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies on Friday, December 01, 2023, for the AAEF Chair in Modern Arab History Farewell Lecture: “The War on Palestine and the Politics of History”. Date: Friday, December 1, 2023 Reception: 5:45 pm, Lecture: 6:15 pm Location: Waldorf Ballroom, Hilton University of Houston, 4450 University Dr., Houston, TX 77204   Dr. Abdel Razzaq Takriti is the inaugural holder of the Arab-American Educational Foundation Chair in Modern Arab History, Associate Professor at the Department of History, and founding Director of the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston. He is the author of Monsoon Revolution: Republicans, Sultans, and Empires in Oman, 1965-1976 (2013), which has been translated into Arabic as Dhufar: Thawrat al-Riyah al-Mawsimiyya (2019), and the co-author (with Professor Karma Nabulsi) of the digital humanities project The Palestinian Revolution (2016).   This lecture is supported by the NEH Cullen Chair in History & Business, AAEF Ajouz Professorship in Arab Studies, NEH Cullen Chair in History & Medicine, Department of History, and Department of English. Co-sponsored by the Department of Comparative Cultural Studies and the Project on Race & Capitalism.   This event is free and open to the public. Parking is available at any of the University of Houston parking garages.   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu       Click here for event flyer.

December 1, 2023 - Egyptian American Society Second Annual Physician Networking   The Physician Networking Event Organizing Committee has been very busy the past few days trying to come up with the most effective way to support the tragic situation in Gaza. The EAS proud to share that they partnered earlier this month with Fajr Scientific to have them be part of the Event.   Fajr Scientific has a mission to deliver high-quality surgical care, improve outcomes, and increase access to healthcare for underserved patients around the world, irrespective of their background or circumstance. They’ve been assembling an emergency medical team to be dispatched to Gaza as soon as a humanitarian corridor opens. They’ve already been taking in interest from physicians willing to provide remote consultations. They will be present at the Event to present, answer questions, collect interest forms and take in donations.   The Event will also highlight the amazing Friends of Egyptian Children with Cancer (FECC), which is an impressive organization in Houston benefitting the motherland.   This will be in addition to the original rich program, including amazing speakers and great food. The Event is open for Egyptians, Arabs and all other nationalities!   If you have not gotten your table or individual ticket yet, please do so ASAP. If you are in the medical field, you don’t want to miss networking with truly top minds from Egyptian and Arab backgrounds in the Houston area and beyond.   Keynote Speaker: Dr. Tarek Helmy Honorees: Dr. Samia Khalil & Dr. Kamal Khalil      Date: Friday, December 1, 2023 Time: 6 pm Location: Junior League of Houston, 1811 Briar Oaks Lane, Houston, TX 77027      Click here for event flyer.   Click here to register.

December 1, 2023 - Youth Mental Health - Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder   National Arab American Medical Association - Houston Chapter   Dr. Nesreen Ibrahim MD Child Psychiatrist, President of Egyptian American Club of Houston (EACH)   Liliane Hay MD Pediatrician, Memorial Hermann   Moderated by Dr. Nidal Moukaddam MD PhD      Date: Friday, December 1, 2023 Time: 5:45 p.m. Reception & Dinner Served | 6:30 p.m. Panel Discussion Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston 77099       Click here to register.

November 30, 2023 - Houston Poets for Free Palestine       HOUSTON: Creatives for Palestine!    Join us for "Houston Poets for a Free Palestine", as we come together with the Houston community for poetry readings, a teach-in, tabling, books and more.     Date: December 30, 2023 Time: Teach-in at 6pm, Readings at 7:30-9 pm Location: 20 N Sampson St., Houston, Texas 77003   Click here for event flyer.

November 27, 2023 - Protest for Palestine! Kamala Harris in Houston!   Join us as we protest Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit to Houston and demand an immediate, permanent ceasefire!   Under Kamala Harris’s Vice Presidentship, the Biden Administration has committed over 14 BILLION tax-payer dollars to funding Israel’s illegal genocide on Gaza. Meanwhile, millions of Houstonians lack access to basic necessities like healthcare, housing, and education.   Date: Monday, November 27, 2023 Time: 2:30 PM Location: Hardy Senior Center, 11901 W Hardy Rd, Houston, TX 77076    Event Flyer

November 24-26, 2023 - ICNA-MAS Regional Convention 2023    Join Us on this Thanksgiving Weekend, Nov 24-26 for 15th Annual ICNA-MAS Regional Convention at Houston Marriott Westchase Insha’Allah   Highlights: Bazaar | Badminton & Table Tennis Tournaments | Interactive Presentations | Parallel Sessions | Youth lectures | Sisters Only Program | Matrimonial Service & Much more!!   Date: November 24-26, 2023 Location: Houston Marriott Westchase   For more info, visit https://icnatexas.org/.

November 22, 2023 - Spread the Warmth   As the number of Syrian refugee families arriving to Houston in the last few months has reached record high, the Syrian American Club would like to invite our community members to participate in the "SPREAD THE WARMTH" winter blanket drive by donating blankets or contributing through monetary donations towards the purchase of new blankets for families in need.   Please drop off your donations at Al-Sham Center (Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057) on Wednesdays and Saturdays, November 15,18, and 22 from 11am to 2:00pm. Or send your contribution via Zelle to sac.pay@yahoo.com and specify "Blanket Drive" in the memo line.   Click here for flyer.

November 19, 2023 - Traditional Music Concerts    Cultural Events   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project   Date: Sunday, November 19, 2023 Time: 1:00 - 3:30 pm Location: The Mudhif, Rice University    For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar

November 19, 2023 - Family Day   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project   Date: Sunday, November 19, 2023 Time: 1pm-4pm Location: The Mudhif, Rice University   For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar

November 19, 2023 - "Aging and Nutrition" Part 2   The Syrian American Club invites you to attend “Aging and Nutrition” part 2, a talk by Dr. Abdel Kader Fustok.   Come and hear Dr. Fustok describe his journey from a smoker “couch potato” to Ironman, and what he has learned about the intersection of aging and nutrition.   Note that you do not necessarily need to have attended Part 1 to join either Part 2 or Part 3.   Date: Sunday, November 19, 2023 Time: 3 pm Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057   Click here for event flyer.

November 18, 2023 - Healthcare Professionals for Palestine   Peaceful Rally Concerned Healthcare Professionals of USA and their Families & Friends for Sanctity of Life in Gaza    Date: Saturday, November 18, 2023 Time: 11 am - 2:30 pm Location: Avenida De Las Americas at Lamar Street, Downtown Houston, in front of George R. Brown Convention Center   Click here for event flyer.

November 17, 2023 - Rally for Immediate Ceasefire    This Friday, November 17 at 3:00 pm we will be gathered outside the congressional office of Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (3700 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77098) to demand she support an immediate ceasefire. We also ask that supporters email and call her D.C., Houston, and Sugar Land office to demand for a ceasefire.    Date: Friday, November 17, 2023 Time: 3 pm - 5 pm Location: 3700 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77098   Click here for event flyer.

November 17, 2023 - Healing Circle for Palestinians + Allies   The Arab American Cultural & Community Center and the Houston Health Department present: Coping with Grief and Loss   This presentation will focus on how to recognize what grief and loss are and how to cope during these difficult times.   2 Sessions 1st Session Date: November 9, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Location: ZOOM 2nd Session Date: November 17, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, TX 77099 To RSVP: https://linktr.ee/accclasses   Click here for event flyer.

November 15, 2023 - Sugar Land for Ceasefire    Palestinian Youth Movement and Jewish Voice for Peace call upon Fort Bend residents to come together in solidarity and demand an immediate ceasefire and an end to the ongoing genocide and siege on Gaza. Join the "Sugar Land for Ceasefire" rally this Wednesday, November 15, at 5 pm, at Sugar Land Town Square, in front of City Hall.   More than 11,000 people – almost half of them children – have been killed by Israel’s unrelenting attacks on the population and civilian infrastructure of the Gaza Strip. It’s on every one of us to demand that our government stop enabling the Israeli regime and, instead, exert its influence to uphold Palestinians’ inherent right to live on their land.   Date: November 15, 2023 Time: 5 pm Location: Sugar Land Town Square, in front of City Hall, Sugar Land, Texas   Click here for event flyer.

November 13, 2023 - Genocide in Gaza: Context and Strategies    As the Israeli assault on Palestinians in Gaza enters its second month, the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies invites you on Monday, November 13, 2023 to “Genocide in Gaza: Context and Strategies”.   This free and public event will feature contributions from University of Houston and Rice University researchers on Palestine and the Arab world.   Date: Monday, November 13, 2023 Time: 6:00 - 7:30 PM Location: University of Houston, Downtown Room #261, Student Center South, 4455 University Dr., Houston, TX 77204   Parking is available at any of the University of Houston parking garages.   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu

November 12, 2023 - Texas State-Wide Protest: All Out For Palestine    Ceasefire Now: end the Siege on Gaza   Date: Sunday, November 12, 2023 Time: 1 pm Location: Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701   Click here for event flyer.

November 12, 2023 - Town Hall and Candlelight Vigil     Congressman Al Green will host an Unfiltered Town Hall. He will give a legislative update on the latest war, and he will speak on the topic of “the injustice innocent civilian Palestinian men, women, and especially children are suffering in the name of justice.”.   The vent will close with a peaceful “Justice for Palestinians Candlelight Vigil.”    Date: Sunday, November 12, 2023 Time: 3:00 p.m. CT Location: Fountain Life Center, 14083 South Main St., Houston, Texas 77035   Click here for more info.

November 11, 2023 - Ibn Sina Interfaith Behavioral & Mental Health Conference   Leaders as Healers: The Role of Community and Faith Leaders in Mental Wellness   A unique conference to host and bring together community leaders and professionals from diverse faiths and traditions to engage, discuss, share, and develop an understanding of the challenges of mental health prevalent in the communities.   For too long, mental health has not been given the attention it deserves in many communities. People suffer needlessly from otherwise treatable conditions, often hiding within the shadows, or living with the stigma that so often accompanies mental illness.   Interfaith Behavioral and Mental Health Conference is a distinctive forum to bring together community leaders in person to manage mental health issues in diverse communities.   Ibn Sina Foundation (ISF), in collaboration with National Alliance on Mental Illness, Greater Houston (NAMI-GH), Mental Health America (MHA), Fort Bend County Behavioral Health Services, The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, and other partner organizations, organizing the Interfaith Behavioral and Mental health Conference. The goal is to challenge the status quo, share success stories, and create awareness about mental health and wellness among the communities at large.    Date: Saturday, November 11, 2023 Location: Houston Community College (HCC) West Loop Campus Conference Hall Center, 5601 West Loop South, Houston, Texas 77081   For more information or to register: https://interfaithmhconference.org/

November 10, 2023 - Emergency Palestine Relief    Fundraising event for the humanitarian crisis in Palestine.   Keynote speaker is Shaykh Fahad Tasleem.   Date: Friday, November 10, 2023 Time: 7 pm Location: Houston Marquee Center, Beltway 8 and Hwy 59 near Sugar Land   For more information, please call Br. Muhammad Saad Ansari at 281-282-7010.   https://hhrd.org/Houston4Palestine

November 10, 2023 - Afterlives of Revolution Book Launch Discussion with Prof. Alice Wilson    Please join the University of Houston's Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies on Friday, November 10, 2023, for a book launch discussion of   Afterlives of Revolution: Everyday Counterhistories in Southern Oman by Professor Alice Wilson (University of Sussex)   Date: Friday, November 10, 2023 Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm Location: University of Houston, Bayou City Room 219, Student Center South 4455 University Dr., Houston, TX 77204   The Dhufar Revolution was fought between 1965–1976, in an attempt to depose Oman’s British-backed Sultan and advance social ideals of egalitarianism and gender equality. Dhufar, the southernmost governorate in today’s Sultanate, captured global attention for its revolutionaries and their liberation movement’s Marxist-inspired social change. But following counterinsurgency victory, Oman’s government expunged the revolution from sanctioned historical narratives. Afterlives of Revolution offers a groundbreaking study of the legacies of officially silenced revolutionaries. How do their underlying convictions survive and inspire platforms for progressive politics in the wake of disappointment, defeat, and repression?   Alice Wilson considers the “social afterlives” of revolutionary values and networks. Veteran militants have used kinship and daily socializing to reproduce networks of social egalitarianism and commemorate the revolution in unofficial ways. These afterlives revise conventional wartime and postwar histories. They highlight lasting engagement with revolutionary values, the agency of former militants in postwar modernization, and the limitations of government patronage for eliciting conformity. Recognizing that those typically depicted as coopted can still reproduce counterhegemonic values, this book considers a condition all too common across Southwest Asia and North Africa: the experience of defeated revolutionaries living under the authoritarian state they once contested.   Professor Alice Wilson is Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Anthropology at the University of Sussex. She is the author of Sovereignty in Exile: A Saharan Liberation Movement Governs (2016).   This event is free and open to the public. Parking is available at any of the University of Houston parking garages. For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu

November 9, 2023 - Ecologies of Empire in South Asia, 1400-1900    Please join the University of Houston's Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies and the India Studies Program on Thursday, November 09, 2023, for a book launch discussion of "Ecologies of Empire in South Asia, 1400 - 1900" by Dr. Sumit Guha, Professor; Frances Higginbotham Nalle Centennial Professorship in History, University of Texas at Austin   Discussant: Dr. Samira Sheikh Associate Professor of History, Vanderbilt University Chair: Dr. Nandini Bhattacharya, Associate Professor, History, University of Houston   Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023 Time: 4:00 - 6:30 PM Location: University of Houston, Bayou City, Student Center South Room 219, 4455 University Dr., Houston 77204   This event is free and open to the public.   Parking is available at any of the University of Houston parking garages.   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu.   Click here for event flyer.

November 9, 2023 - Healing Circle for Palestinians + Allies   The Arab American Cultural & Community Center and the Houston Health Department present: Coping with Grief and Loss   This presentation will focus on how to recognize what grief and loss are and how to cope during these difficult times.   2 Sessions 1st Session Date: November 9, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Location: ZOOM 2nd Session Date: November 17, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, TX 77099 To RSVP: https://linktr.ee/accclasses   Click here for event flyer.

November 8, 2023 - HOUSTON: RAZA CON GAZA   Join us for a vigil at Guadalupe Plaza Park on Wednesday, Nov 8 at 6:30PM   At least 10,000 Palestinians, which of 4,000 are children, have been killed by the Israeli military in the last month. Join our Indigenous comrades at Guadalupe Plaza Park to mourn those lost and to continue fighting for the voiceless.   We demand a ceasefire now with a complete end to the siege on Gaza, and an end to all US aid to Israel!    Date: November 8, 2023 Time: 6:30 PM Location: Guadalupe Plaza Park, 2311 Runnels St., Houston, TX 77003    Click here for event flyer.

November 5, 2023 - Gaza Emergency Relief Fundraising   Fundraiser led by the FAJR Scientific   Date: Sunday, November 5, 2023 Time: 3-6pm Location: Multicultural Center (MCC), 951 Tristar Dr., Webster, TX 77598   For more info: www.FAJRScientificUS.org/emergency-relief   Click here for event flyer.

November 5, 2023 - An Ancient Meal    Culinary Adventure   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project   Date: November 5, 2023 Time: 6pm-8pm Location: The Mudhif, Rice University   For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar

November 4, 2023 - National March on Washington: Free Palestine!   The people demand ceasefire.     Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023 Time: 2 pm Location: Freedom Plaza, Washington, D.C.    Click here for flyer.

November 3, 2023 - Jumuah Prayer For Palestine at Houston City Hall      Date: Friday, November 3, 2023 Time: 1:30 pm Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, Texas 77002    Click here for flyer.

November 2, 2023 - "Curfew" Film Screening    As international news outlets, world leaders, and major social media platforms are engaging in censorship and distorting the narrative, all while perpetuating the dehumanization of Palestinians and their enduring suffering, Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) & Houston Palestine Film Festival (HPFF) extend our channels in support of "Palestine Cinema Days" Festival, forcibly canceled.   On the somber anniversary of the Balfour Declaration, observed on November 2nd, and in an effort to amplify Palestinian voices, we are screening "Curfew" directed by "Rashida Mesharawi"   Date: November 2, 2023 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd. Houston, 77099   The screening is free of charge.

October 29, 2023 - Houston Protest: All Out for Palestine   All out to demonstrate against the ongoing genocide of Gaza. All communications with Gaza have been cut off, as Gaza is invaded and bombarded. Join us to demonstrate against the ongoing genocide of Gaza and to call for an immediate ceasefire.    Date: Sunday, October 29, 2023 Time: 2pm-6pm Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, Texas 77002    Click here for event flyer.

October 27-29, 2023 - US Campaign for Palestinian Rights (USCPR) National Conference POSTPONED   The worldwide movement for Palestinian liberation is growing. Together we’re building toward a vibrant future where all people can be free, in defiance of Israeli repression and U.S. imperialism. Join us at the 2023 USCPR National Conference in Houston October 27-29, 2023 to mobilize for our collective liberation. We’ll convene at a critical moment, in solidarity with the Palestinian people resisting 75+ years of ethnic cleansing. Reimagine a liberated future, beginning with our demand to end U.S. military funding to Israel, once and for all. The 2023 USCPR National Conference will feature speakers such as Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, journalist & academic Marc Lamont Hill, senior staff attorney Diala Shamas, co-executive director and activist Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson, political prisoner daughter and speaker Nida Abu Baker, with more announcements coming soon. Check back this summer for more details on panels, workshops, and more!   Date: October 27-29, 2023 Location: Hilton Post Oak Grand Ballroom, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Houston, Texas 77056 For more information about the Seize the Moment conference, booking hotel rooms, and scholarships, visit https://www.uscprconference.org/.

October 27-29, 2023 - The Illuminated Prophet ﷺ - Risala's 10th Annual Retreat          Click here for more information.

October 27, 2023 - Texas Med Center Vigil: Healthcare Workers for Palestine     A call to medical professionals and the broader Houston community. Join us on Friday, October 27 at 4 PM at the John P McGovern Commons as we honor the lost lives and victims of the inhumane bombings on Gaza. As the health system in Gaza reaches a complete collapse, we are demanding an immediate ceasefire to allow for essential medical supplies and fuel to reach hospitals already being forced to stop life saving operations and services.   As medical professionals, we took an oath to preserve life, to do no harm, and advocate for those whose voices are silenced, regardless of race or creed. Join us as we demonstrate our duty to the humanitarian healthcare crisis that is the blockade of Gaza. Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023 Time: 4:00 pm Location: John P McGovern Commons, Bertner Ave., Houston, TX 77002   **We encourage you to wear masks and your white coats/scrubs. Please be mindful of showing name tags or any work related identification.

October 26, 2023 - Emergency Protest   We're calling on ALL justice defenders to join us ‼THIS THURSDAY‼ for an emergency rally for Palestine. Rice University and Baker Institute are hosting war criminals for their genocide gala while Gaza is being bombed. We need to SHOW UP and let them know that we will NOT allow war criminals in our city while our people remain under siege! NO to Henry Kissinger and Hillary Clinton! #gazaunderattack #freepalestine #palestine #stopthegenocide #palestine #gaza Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023 Time: 5:45PM Location: Rice University, Central Quad, Houston, Texas

October 26, 2023 - Fundraising Event at AIMS (Arabic Immersion Magnet School)   Save the date for a fundraising event at AIMS (Arabic Immersion Magnet School). AIMS is the only public school in the states that teaches the curriculum in Arabic and English. Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023 Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm Location: AIMS, 4001 Stanford St, Houston, TX 77006

October 22, 2023 - Humanitarian Relief for Gaza    The Arab American Cultural and Community Center in Houston (ACC), in collaboration with several Arab charities and organizations, will hold a humanitarian relief fundraiser and vigil for the innocent civilian victims of the ongoing war in Gaza, Palestine. All proceeds will be directed to an UNRWA relief fund.   Date: Sunday, October 22, 2023 Time: 1 pm - 4 pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   Click here for event flyer.

October 22, 2023 - International Archeology Day    Family Day   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project   Date: Sunday, October 22, 2023 Time: 4pm-7pm Location: The Mudhif, Rice University    For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar

October 22, 2023 - American Druze Society Fall Picnic    Make sure to bring your Kite, soccer balls, footballs, basketballs, volleyball, badminton or any other sporting activity for your enjoyment.   This is a Fall-time outdoor picnic, so please prepare accordingly    Date: Sunday, October 22, 2023 Time: 11 am - 4:30 pm Location: Eldridge Park, 2511 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, Texas 77478   Click here for more information.

October 21, 2023 - Houston Protest: All Out for Palestine   All out to demonstrate against the ongoing genocide of Gaza.   Date: Saturday, October 21, 2023 Time: 2pm - 6pm Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, Texas 77002   Click here for event flyer.

October 20, 2023 - Art Exhibition by Ayad Fadel   The Syrian American Club is hosting an art exhibition by Iraqi artist Ayad Fadel.   Date: Friday, October 20, 2023 Time: 6pm - 10pm Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057   Click here for event flyer.

October 19, 2023 -  Finding My Team: Little Amal Visits Gulfton   The The Syrian American Club is thrilled to announce a remarkable community event, Finding My Team: Little Amal Visits Gulfton, brought to you by DiverseWorks and Brave Little Company. This free and inclusive event invites the public to join us on Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM at Burnett Bayland Park (6000 Chimney Rock Road, Houston, TX 77081).   Finding My Team: Little Amal Visits Gulfton is a heartwarming performance featuring Little Amal, the internationally acclaimed 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl. Little Amal, a symbol of compassion and human rights, will be walking through Gulfton, the "Ellis Island" of Houston, as part of her epic 6,000-mile journey across the United States. This event aims to spread a message of hope for displaced people, especially children separated from their families.   The performance will include a vibrant procession led by local artists, musicians, art workshop events and neighborhood groups, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of our community.   Date: October 19, 2023 Time: 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM Location: Burnett Bayland Park, 6000 Chimney Rock Road, Houston, TX 77081    For more information: https://www.walkwithamal.org/events/finding-my-team/

October 18, 2023 - HOUSTON EMERGENCY RALLY   All out on October 18 at 4:00 p.m. in front of the Israeli Consulate to demonstrate against the ongoing genocide of Gaza, including the massacre at Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza.    Date: October 18, 2023 Location: 24 Greenway Plaza, Houston, TX 77046 Time: 4:00PM-8:00PM   Click here for event flyer.

October 18, 2023 -  "Melancholy Acts: Defeat and Cultural Critique in the Arab World" by Nouri Gana   Please join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston for the 2023 AAEF Ajouz Professor of Arab Studies book discussion of "Melancholy Acts: Defeat and Cultural Critique in the Arab World" by Nouri Gana.   Nouri Gana is Professor of Comparative Literature and Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at the University of California, Los Angeles. He is the author of Signifying Loss: Toward a Poetics of Narrative Mourning (2011).   Date: October 18, 2023 Time: Reception: 5 pm, Lecture: 5:30 pm Location: Honors Commons, MD Anderson Library, University of Houston   Click here for event flyer.

October 15, 2023 - Iraqi American Community Family Picnic    Date: Sunday, October 15, 2023 Time: 2pm Location: George Bush Park (Pavilion 3), 16756 Westheimer Pkwy, Houston TX 77082    Click here for event flyer.

October 15, 2023 - Arabic Poetry Recital أمسية شعرية بعنوان الشعر و الخريف    Date: Sunday, October 15, 2023 Time: 4pm - 5:30pm Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057   Click here for event flyer.

October 14, 2023 - Houston Protest: All Out for Palestine          Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023 Time: 2 pm Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, Texas 77002   Click here for event flyer.

October 14, 2023 - ACC 30th Anniversary Celebration Gala   Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Celebrating three decades with a mission to serve, preserve and build bridges   Honoring:       Mr. Ahmad Alyasin, Chairman of Optima Global financial    ACC Outstanding Community Service Award    Dr. Hashem B. El-Serag, MD, MPH    ACC Lifetime Achievement Award    Mrs. Amal Zakhem Nassar    ACC Influential Arab Women Award      Gawee Fine Jewelry & Timepieces    ACC Small Business Philanthropic Award     Highlighting the Culture & People of Qatar     Gala Chair: Abdel A. Elkhadiri    Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023 Time: 7 pm Location: Hilton Post Oak Grand Ballroom, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Houston, Texas 77056

October 13, 2023 - Emergency Palestine Teach-In    Amidst the ongoing Israeli assault on Gaza in Palestine, the University of Houston’s Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies is holding a hybrid emergency teach-in event on Palestine:     Live streaming: https://bit.ly/UHPalestine   This emergency teach-in will feature contributions from distinguished scholars of Palestine and global settler-colonialism, including:     Prof. Ussama Makdisi (Chancellor's Chair in History, UC Berkeley)   Prof. Abdel Razzaq Takriti (AAEF-CAS Director, UH)   Prof. Tshepo Chery (Assistant Professor of African History, UH)   Prof. David McNally (NEH Cullen Chair in History & Business, UH)   Prof. Adela Cedillo (Assistant Professor of Mexican History, UH)   Prof. Sue Ferguson (Associate Professor Emerita, Wilfrid Laurier University)   Prof. Hosam Aboul-Ela (AAEF Ajouz Chair in Arab Studies, UH)   Date: Friday, October 13, 2023 Time: 6:00 - 8:00 pm Location: University of Houston, Skyline Room, Student Center South #223, 4455 University Dr., Houston, TX 77204   This event is free and open to the public. Parking is available at any of the University of Houston parking garages.   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu

October 10, 2023 - An Oasis of Biodiversity in the Marshes of Iraq and the Gulf Coast By Dr. Azzam Alwash   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project Wetlands are going to be crucial in a changing world. Biodiversity in the Marshes of Iraq as well as the marshes of the Gulf Coast of America is threatened. Discover some of the solutions being proposed to help both regions of the world at a talk by two experts.    Date: October 10, 2023 Time: 7:00 PM 8:30 PM Location: Glasscock School Auditorium, Rice University    For more information: https://www.archaeologynow.org/calendar

October 7, 2023 -  Health Outreach to the Middle East Program & Luncheon   Presenting: HOME (Health Outreach to the Middle East) & the Launch of Journey to Your Roots Program   Join the American Lebanese Cultural Center (ALCC) for this informative luncheon that will highlight the initiative of a group of doctors, interns and prospective medical students who travelled from the United States to Lebanon. The goal of the HOME trip was to provide free medical care and medications to nine villages. Come and find out what HOME is all about and how it affected its participants and its recipients.   Fadwa Saleh will also be announcing the roll out of a new initiative: Journey to Your Roots that involves young people ages 19 to 25 years old. The purpose of this initiative is to connect our daughters and sons who have grown in the United States to their Lebanese roots, by organizing a group visit to 9 different villages in Lebanon. The group visit will involve meeting young Lebanese who are residing in these villages and to embark on a day long project or visits to interesting cultural and historical sites.   Please bring your sons and daughters so they may learn of this great opportunity that is currently in the making.   Speakers: Dr. Ray Hashem, Leana Hamdan, Christy Andrews & Fadwa Saleh   Date: October 7, 2023 Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm Location: Fadi’s Banquet Hall, 2000 Highway 6 South, Houston 77066 Program Schedule:   11:00 am Meet & Greet   12:00 noon: Buffet Lunch   1:00 pm: Speakers’ Program   Ticket Cost: $40.00* Deadline to purchase your ticket is Midnight, October 5, 2023 *ALCC members receive 10% discount upon checkout, making it the ideal time to become a member.     Click here to register.

October 6, 2023 -  Know Your Rights As An American Muslim   CAIR-Houston is thrilled to announce a Know Your Rights event at the Brand Lane Islamic Center on October 6th. Get ready for an enlightening gathering with Director William White, Qari Mikail, and Imam Taqueer Shah. It's an event you won't want to miss and an opportunity to strengthen our understanding of our rights in this country. Mark your calendars and join us for an inspiring day of knowledge and community engagement!   Date: Friday, October 6, 2023 Time: 7:30pm - 8:45pm Location: Brand Lane Islamic Center, 610 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477

October 4, 2023 - ACC Emergency Preparedness Training: Earthquake Preparedness   In partnership with the American Red Cross, the Arab American Cultural & Community Center presents: Earthquake Preparedness This presentation is part of a series of classes designed to teach people how to prepare for and respond appropriately to disasters likely to occur in their community.   Date: Wednesday, October 4, 2023 Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm   Click here to register.

October 2, 2023 - Beginnings and Endings: Palestine and the Killing of Shireen Abu Akleh            Please join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston on Monday, October 2 for the 2023 AAEF Paul Kardoush Annual Memorial Lecture   Beginnings and Endings: Palestine and the Killing of Shireen Abu Akleh Presented by Jennifer Zacharia, JD. This event will be held at the Waldorf Ballroom, Hilton University of Houston with a reception at 6:00 pm followed by the lecture at 6:30 pm. Jennifer Zacharia is a lawyer and writer. She holds a JD from Columbia's Law School, and an MIA from Columbia's School of International and Public Affairs. A graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, she has worked as a journalist and with various human and civil rights organizations. She is Shireen Abu Akleh's first cousin. This event is free and open to the public.   Directions: Hilton University of Houston, Waldorf Ballroom (2nd Floor), 4450 University Dr, Houston, TX 77204   Parking is available in the Hilton University of Houston underground garage   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu.

September 30, 2023 - 2nd Annual Houston Halal Fest   Houston, get ready for the return of the biggest halal food festival in all of Texas!   Get ready for the largest food vendor line up ever, including some of your favorites from last year along with several new vendors with several surprises as well!   For vendor and sponsorship information email: houstonhalalfoodfest@gmail.com   Date: Saturday, September 30, 2023 Time: 11am-7pm Location: Constellation Field in Sugar Land    Click here for more information.

September 27, 2023 - What is Mental Health? In partnership with the Mental Health America, the Arab American Cultural & Community Center presents: What is Mental Health? This workshop is designed for anyone seeking an understanding on basic mental health concepts. The presentation explores common mental health disorders and identifying signs and symptoms. Participants will become aware of resources for people in need of support.   Date: Wednesday, September 27, 2023 Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm   Click here to register.

September 24, 2023 - AUB4Beirut Run   Houston Chapter 2023 4th Annual Run   The WAAAUB Houston Chapter is participating in the AUB4Beirut Run and will be supporting the University for Seniors   Saturday, September 24th at 9:00 am Eleanor Tinsley Park, 1800-3600 Allen Parkway, Houston, TX 77019   2km Walk/Run Meeting Point & Parking: 105 Sabine St, Houston, TX 7700   For more info: https://secureca.imodules.com/s/1716/bp20/Interior.aspx?sid=1716&gid=2&pgid=3089&cid=10270

September 23-24, 2023 - 27th Annual Houston Turkish Festival               Date/Time: SEP 23 AT 11 AM – SEP 24 AT 7 PM Location: The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park      Click here for more information.

September 23, 2023 - PCRF Houston 1st Annual Benefit Dinner   The Palestine Children's Relief Fund is excited to invite you to our first Annual Benefit Dinner! Join us for an evening of giving dedicated to the establishment of the Beer Al-Basha primary healthcare clinic in Jenin.   We look forward to hosting a memorable evening complete with entertainment, dinner, a silent auction, and a keynote speech by PCRF founder and President Steve Sosebee. Deadline for Sponsorships: Tuesday, September 5th. Deadline to Purchase Tickets: Sunday, September 17th              Date: Saturday, September 23, 2023 Time: 7:00 pm Location: Hyatt Regency Houston West, 13210 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079        Click here for more information.

September 23, 2023 - SAC's Scholarship Endowment Gala    We are excited to announce The Syrian American Club's Scholarship Endowment Gala for 2023, an evening dedicated to celebrating education, culture, and community.   Please join us in honoring and celebrating this year's scholarship recipients on Saturday, September 23, at the Hilton Houston Post Oak at 7:30 PM.   The Syrian American Club relies on the support and attendance of each and every member and friend for the success of its scholarship program.   Use this link to make your online reservations.                Date: Saturday, September 23, 2023 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Hilton Houston Post Oak

September 22, 2023 - USCPR Houston Meet N' Greet!   Join the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights (USCPR) for our Houston Meet and Greet on Friday, September 22nd from 6:30-8:30 PM! Together with Ahmad Abuznaid, the Executive Director of USCPR, we invite all those committed to the liberation of Palestine to join us for a night of free food, conversation, and excitement for the upcoming conference!   Date: September 22, 2023 Time: 6:30-8:30 PM Location: La Pasha Lounge & Grill, 2475 S Kirkwood Rd, Houston, TX 77077   Contact us: conference@uscpr.org         Click here for more information.

September 21, 2023 - “The World’s Oldest Tavern” Lecture    Presented by the MFAH and Archaeology Now in partnership with the Arab American Educational Foundation   The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project Eating out seems to have been as popular 5,000 years ago as it is today. Archaeologists working in the fall of 2022 in the ancient city of Lagash, in what was once the marshes of Iraq, discovered one of the world’s first taverns. Everything for a delightful meal was available: a room containing benches for comfort, an industrial-size oven that certainly churned out delicious delicacies, a large grill still holding a fish, ancient food remains in hundreds of disposable clay dishes, and even a 5,000-year-old fridge to cool beer. Hear the story and learn more about what was on the menu from Zaid Alrawi, Mesopotamian archaeologist and the Lagash archaeological project’s manager.   Featuring Dr. Zaid Al Rawi, Landscape Archaeologist Southern Mesopotamia Projects Manager, University of Pennsylvania   Date: Thursday, September 21, 2023 Time: 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Location: Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, 5500 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004   FREE ADMISSION with reserved ticket        Click here for more information.

September 16-17 - Moroccan Society of Houston Donation Drive    Shortly before midnight on Friday, September 8th, 2023, the strongest earthquake in over 100 years struck Morocco. Communities in the High Atlas Mountains and nearby areas are facing overwhelming loss of life with over 2,500 casualties and many more in critical condition. A quick response is essential, and we are mobilizing for immediate community relief.   In Collaboration with the Arab American Cultural and Community Center, The Moroccan Society of Houston is accepting in-kind assistance to those in need in Morocco affected by the earthquakes.   Volunteers who are willing to send their donations are kindly asked to drop of the following items through in-person drop off:   Drop Off Locations:   Arab American Cultural and Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   Warehouse, 8500 Market St., Suite # A, Houston, Texas 77029   When/Time: Saturday, September 16th, 2023, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (CST) Sunday, September 17th, 2023, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (CST)   *Winter Clothes (Adult & Children) *Other Equipment Coat – Jacket Raincoat Boot Sweatshirts/Sweatpants Pants Gloves Scarfs/Shawl Socks Underwear Tent (4 ppl+) Air Mattress (for Tent) Blankets Sleeping Bags Thermos Flashlights Cleaning and Hygiene Material   *(Kindly bring only new boxed items for ease of delivery/packaging).   The donations will be sent to Morocco by Air or/and Sea.   Please make sure you make a list of items you are providing are for ease of packaging and custom clearance.   For more information and/or to donate online: https://moroccansocietyofhouston.org/    Other organizations that are aiding the rescue and recovery efforts in Morocco that are accepting contributions:   CARE   GlobalGiving   UNICEF USA   Doctors Without Borders   Islamic Society of Greater Houston   Center for Arab American Philanthropy   The Official Moroccan Donation Account Information   International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

September 17, 2023 - Reception for Dr. Firass Abiad, Lebanese Minister of Health   Meeting & Reception to Honor His Excellency Lebanese Minister of Health Dr. Firass Abiad   Hosted by Health Outreach to the Middle East (HOME) in coordination with American Lebanese Medical Association (ALMA) & National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA)   His Excellency Dr. Firass Abiad is a brilliant surgeon, a passionate advocate for health care reform, and a highly effective health care leader. He has dedicated his career to improving the health of the Lebanese people and ensuring that all Lebanese citizens have access to quality, affordable health care during the current devastating economic crisis that our beloved Lebanon is facing. HOME has been closely working with him and supporting his efforts with deep appreciation of his integrity, sincerity and insightful strategic planning. Please see the picture below of His excellency inaugurating the expanded HOME Medical Center in Lebanon this last July 2023.   Join us for a short meeting and a reception to honor Dr. Abiad   Date: September 17, 2023 Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston TX 77099   The invitation is complimentary, but registration is required. Kindly confirm your attendance through this link.

September 16, 2023 - Leila Ma3 Bassem Youssef            For the first time in Houston, Texas Bassem Youssef will be performing an entire show in Arabic for all his longtime fans! It will be a unique night with the infamous Egyptian satirist and comedian as he delivers a one of a kind performance in Arabic.   A valid ID is required for entry. This is an 18+ seated event.   This performance is in Arabic       Date: September 16, 2023 Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: Hobby Center, Zilkha Hall, Houston, Texas        Click here for more information.

September 14, 2023 - "Aging and Nutrition" - A Talk by Dr. Abdel Kader Fustok at Al-Sham Center        The Syrian American Club invites you to attend “Aging and Nutrition”, a talk by Dr. Abdel Kader Fustok at Al-Sham Center.   Come and hear Dr. Fustok describe his journey from a smoker “couch potato” to Ironman, and what he has learned about the intersection of aging and nutrition.        Date: Thursday, September 14, 2023 Time: 7:00 pm Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057

September 13, 2023 - ACC Emergency Preparedness Training: Flood Preparedness   In partnership with the American Red Cross, the Arab American Cultural & Community Center presents: Flood Preparedness   This presentation is part of a series of classes designed to teach people how to prepare for and respond appropriately to disasters likely to occur in their community.   Date: Wednesday, September 13, 2023 Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm   Click here to register.

September 10, 2023 - Team Texas--Za'atar Man'ouche and More   Team Members, Cousins, and Friends of the Arab America Foundation are welcome to meet each other for Za'atar, Man'ouche, and More! As part of the Arab America Foundation's mission to connect and empower Arab Americans, cousins, and friends are welcome to connect with each other and enjoy za'atar/man'ouche, foul and more. Warren and Dr. Amal David, co-founders of the Arab America Foundation, will be sharing a brief yet thrilling insight into their dynamic "movement" and forthcoming plans for success throughout America.   Please confirm no later than Friday, September 8th. For information call: 877-272-2944 Donations are always welcome to the Arab America Foundation, a non-profit (501c3) cultural and educational organization.              Date: Sunday, September 10, 2023 Time: 12:30 - 2pm Location: Syrian American Club Inc 5729 Winsome Lane Houston, TX 77057

September 10, 2023 - “Miracle in the Marshes of Iraq” Film Screening    Presented by the MFAH and Archaeology Now in partnership with the Arab American Educational Foundation   It’s the most ambitious habitat re-creation project to bring back to life one of the world’s greatest marshlands. In the 1990s, Saddam Hussein drained the gigantic wetlands of Iraq and turned them into a desert, destroying a home to thousands of people and millions of birds.   This BBC documentary follows the work of visionary Iraqi engineer Azzam Alwash. He introduces the screening and gives an update on current efforts of marsh preservation. Azzam Alwash, a TEDx speaker and co-founder of Nature Iraq, works in the marshes of southern Iraq, a region defined by the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Archaeology Now is the Houston affiliate of the Archaeological Institute of America. The Arab American Educational Foundation and Archaeology Now, in partnership with stakeholders in the Iraqi community of Houston, are creating a series of events telling the story of the Marsh Arabs.               Date: Sunday, September 10, 2023 Time: 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, 5500 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004   The screening takes place in Lynn Wyatt Theater in the Kinder Building with seating on a first-come, first-served basis.   Tickets to this program are free. Museum admission is required in addition to the free ticket.   For more info, click here.

September 9, 2023 - The Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project Launch   Grand Opening of Mudhif   Join Archaeology Now and the Arab American Educational Foundation to celebrate 5,000 years of history—from the Iraqi Marshes to themarshes of the Gulf Coast of America—as we formally open our newly completed mudhif, a reed guest house in continuous use over thousands of years in the marshes of Iraq.   Master builders in Iraq created the components of the structure on the marshes and shipped them to Houston where we assembled the pieces on the campus of Rice University. It is the first time this has ever been done in the United States and it is having a pivotal impact on preserving ancient building techniques and knowledge in danger of disappearing forever!   We are proud to showcase the work of volunteers from many communities in Houston whose muscle and dedication helped to create this unique building made from authentic materials using traditional methods.   Four months of entertaining and educational programs, all centered around the mudhif, await you this fall!   Meet us at the Mudhif!    SAMPLE traditional food. CREATE art with your family. JOIN in song and dance.   Date: Saturday, September 9, 2023 Time: 10am – 1pm Location: Rice University, Entrance #8 at the corner of University Blvd and Stockton   Paid Parking is available at West Lot 5.          For more information, click here.

September 9, 2023 - Houston Mediterranean Festival St. George Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church of Houston Join us for the Houston Mediterranean Festival on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at St. George Orthodox Church (5311 Mercer St, Houston, TX 77005) from 12pm until 10pm. The St. George Mediterranean Festival is a celebration of Mediterranean culture and cuisine, featuring food and music from countries like Lebanon, Greece, and Syria. At the Mediterranean Festival you will experience the flavors of traditional Mediterranean dishes such as hummus, baklava, kebabs, and falafel. This festival is a family-friendly event, and there will be plenty of activities for family members of all ages!   Come celebrate vibrant Mediterranean culture and cuisine at the St. George Mediterranean Festival! Don't miss out on this exciting event.    Date: Saturday, September 9, 2023 Time: 12 pm until 10 pm Location: St. George Orthodox Church (5311 Mercer St, Houston, TX 77005)   Tickets are $5 for adults and free for children under 4. Tickets are available for purchase online: linktr.ee/houstonmedfest.

September 9, 2023 - From Lebanon With Love | A Musical Journey by Nibal Malshi   Houston, Join us on a special evening as we get together, Giving Back To CCCL USA INC. to support children battling cancer in Lebanon.   By Nibal Malshi   Enjoy Dinner, dancing to live music and more. "The Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL) is a leading national organization dedicated to the treatment and support of kids and adolescents with cancer, in addition to being a national advocate of childhood cancer control and a leading NGO in Lebanon and the region. Inaugurated in 2002, CCCL supports almost 50% of children with cancer in Lebanon (including non-Lebanese coming from the Arab region and refugees), with ages ranging between a few months old up to 18 years..." | https://www.cccl.org.lb/about-us/en We Believe that no child should Suffer, We believe that together we can save lives and Celebrate Hope. Together we can make it happen, Do it today for the Children, they depend on us. Date: Saturday, September 9, 2023 Time: 7 pm Location: Bougainvilleas Events Venue & Catering, 12126 Westheimer Rd., Houston, 77077   We are looking forward to seeing you and have you join our event. For Sponsorship please contact: Nibal Malshi: Nibal.malshi@icloud.com Nina Baki: +1 (832) 248 2244 Sara Shouhayib Alawar: Sara@capitalemcee.com   For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

September 3, 2023 - ACC English Poetry Recital   Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Date: Sunday, September 3, 2023 Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Road, Houston, TX 77099     For more information, click here.

September 2, 2023 - ACC Arabic Classes Meet the Teachers and Registration   Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Arabic Classes Resume for 2023 - 2024   Meet the Teachers and Registration on September 2, 2023, at 10:00 am      For more information, click here.

August 27, 2023 - SAC Book & Fine Art Fair    The Syrian American Club of Houston invites you to its 2nd Book & Fine Art Fair.   Date: Sunday, August 27, 2023 Time: 12 noon - 6 p.m. Location: Al-Sham Center, 5729 Winsome Ln, Houston, TX 77057 Public and Free Event            August 25, 2023 - The Middle East (Part 2)   Politics, Policy, and Religion The Middle East Part 2 By: Yaseen Khandwalla   Continuation of Politics, Policy, and Religion; The Middle East Part 1. Will focus on Middle Eastern history starting in 1979 and ending in the mid-2000s.   Program will also go over social and economic trends and politics in the region and specific countries.   Date: August 25, 2023 Time: 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm Location: MAS Katy Center, 1800 Baker Road, Houston, Texas 77094            Syrian American Club Scholarship Program   Deadline to apply is August 21, 2023.    This is the 28th year for the Syrian American Club Scholarship Program and qualified students in our community are invited to apply to the program for the 2023-2024 academic year.   Students who graduated from high school this year and plan to attend college are encouraged to apply. Students who are undergraduates in a college program may also apply if they are in their junior year or below.   A limited number of scholarships will be awarded to those with the greatest need and highest qualifications. For more information, please see the attached program description and application form.    For more information, click here.        August 19, 2023 - Back To School Bash! Family Health Fair     FREE fun, health services, and workshops for the whole family to enjoy!   By Arab American Cultural & Community Center & YMCA   FREE Fun for the Family Face Painting Balloon Twisting Henna Art Goody bags for the first 100 people! FREE Health Services School vaccines Blood drive (raffle) Blood pressure checks Blood sugar screenings Dental kits & screenings Breathing workshop Local health resources   Date: August 19, 2023 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Location: Alief Family YMCA - 7850 Howell Sugar Land Rd. , Houston, TX 77083   For more information, click here.              August 18, 2023 - The Middle East Part 1   Politics, Policy, and Religion The Middle East Part 1 By: Yaseen Khandwalla   Presentation on Middle Eastern History from the fall of the Ottoman Empire until the year 1979   Date: August 18, 2023 Time: 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm Location: MAS Katy Center, 1800 Baker Road, Houston, Texas 77094              American Lebanese Cultural Center Academic Scholarship   Deadline to apply is August 15, 2023.   The deadline for the Academic Scholarship is fast approaching. The ALCC is offering 3 scholarships each valued at $2,500.    For more information and/or to apply, click here.        Syrian American Club 2023-2024 Arabic School Year   Deadline to register is August 12, 2023.   For more information, click here.        August 11, 2023 - Refugee Support Musical Evening (Amel USA Annual Benefit)     For more information, click here.          August 6, 2023 - Islamic Arts Society Gala     For more information, click here.          July 22, 2023 - Global Coptic Day 2023 Celebration   You and your family are invited to discover the ancient Egyptian Church with its rich heritage and customs! This is a family friendly event with kids activities, interactive stations, Egyptian food, and more! We encourage you to come join us & help spread the word! When: Saturday, July 22, 2023 Time: 11 am – 5pm Deadline to RSVP: July 8, 2023   For any questions, please contact: gcd@saintmarkhouston.org        For more information, click here.          July 18, 2023 - ACC Training: Prioritizing Your Self Care        For more information/event flyer, click here.          July 14, 2023 - ACC Training: DV 102: Challenges for Immigrant Survivors        For more information/event flyer, click here.          June 9-July 14, 2023 - Cultural Summer Camp      For more information/event flyer, click here.          July 1, 2023 - Eid ul Adha Carnival   MAS Katy Center-Masjid ArRahman   Date: July 1st, 2023 Time: 5pm Location: 1800 Baker Road, Houston 77094    For more information, click here.        June 30, 2023 - Annual Udhiya Distribution   Annual Udhiya Distribution with the cooperation of the Syrian American Club   Udhiya distribution on Friday at 1pm at the Syrian American Club, while supplies last. No registration needed, first come first serve.   If you haven’t yet, please help us provide for needy families this Eid. Donate today, PayPal or Zelle to m.zaza@futurebeyondcharity.org.    Date: June 30, 2023 Time: starting at 1 pm while supplies last Location: 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057    For more information, click here.        June 28, 2023 - ACC Training: What is Mental Health?        For more information/event flyer, click here.          2023 PACC Houston Mahmoud Darwish Scholarship   Deadline to Apply: June 25, 2023   The Palestinian American Cultural Center (PACC Houston) is awarding four undergraduate scholarships in Texas for up to four years to support students and recognize their leadership and involvement in promoting awareness of Palestinian culture. Visit https://pacchouston.org/scholarships/ for a preview of the application and eligibility.   If you have any questions, send email to scholarships@pacchouston.org.              June 23, 2023 - Movie Night at the ACC: "Ghorba" - "Sabeel" - "Sarah"        For more information/event flyer, click here.          June 11, 2023 - أمسية شعرية بعنوان أحلام الصيف   المركز الثقافي العربي الأمريكي في هيوستن يدعوكم إلى أمسية شعرية بعنوان أحلام الصيف 2023   Date: Sunday, June 11, 2023 Time: 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099       For more information/event flyer, click here.          June 2-3 & 9-10, 2023 - 16th Annual Houston Palestine Film Festival    The organizers of the Houston Palestine Film Festival are pleased to announce the dates of their 16th annual festival, featuring the latest films in Palestinian Cinema. The festival will take place over two weekends:   June 2nd & 3rd (at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH)) and June 9th & 10th (at Rice University Cinema).   June 2 & 3, 2023 at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH)   The MFAH hosts opening weekend of the 16th Houston Palestine Film Festival with a trio of internationally acclaimed features. Screenings take place in the Lynn Wyatt Theater, located in the Kinder Building. Visit hpff.org/2023 for the complete schedule of events.    Admission: Film festival tickets are $10 general admission. MFAH members, students with ID, and seniors (65+) receive a $2 discount.    A Gaza Weekend Friday, June 2, 2023 at 7 p.m. A British journalist tries to escape Israel after the UN imposes an embargo from land, air, and sea due to the spreading of a virus.   Mediterranean Fever Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 3 p.m. Waleed is an aspiring writer suffering from chronic depression who cultivates a relationship with a petty criminal neighbor.   Alam Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 7 p.m. A Palestinian-Israeli high schooler undergoes a political awakening when he falls for the outspoken new girl in his class.       June 9 & 10, 2023 at Rice University Cinema   A Gaza Weekend Friday, June 9, 2023 at 7 p.m. A British journalist tries to escape Israel after the UN imposes an embargo from land, air, and sea due to the spreading of a virus.   Mediterranean Fever Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 3 p.m. Waleed is an aspiring writer suffering from chronic depression who cultivates a relationship with a petty criminal neighbor.   Alam Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 7 p.m. A Palestinian-Israeli high schooler undergoes a political awakening when he falls for the outspoken new girl in his class.     For more information, visit http://www.hpff.org/2023.                June 7, 2023 - ACC Training: DV 101: What is Domestic Violence?      For more information/event flyer, click here.          May 28, 2023 - Book & Fine Art Fair       Date: Sunday, May 28, 2023 Time: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   For more information/event flyer, click here.          May 27, 2023 - Family Health Fair at the ACC   Join us on Saturday, May 27th from 10am-4pm at Arab American Cultural & Community Center for a Family Health Fair full of FUN activities for families and FREE health screenings.      Date: Saturday, May 27, 2023 Time: 10 am – 4 pm Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   For more information/event flyer, click here.          May 26-28, 2023 - Muslim Congress        Date: May 26-28, 2023 Location: Hyatt Regency Houston Intercontinental Airport, 425 N Sam Houston Pkwy E, Houston, TX, 77060    For more information, click here.        May 25, 2023 - The Internet and Hate Speech in a Post-Truth Society   Panel Discussion followed by Reception SPEAKERS:       Numa Dhamani     Principal Machine Learning Engineer     KUNGFU.AI.       Chelsea Horne     Senior Professorial Lecturer     Department of Literature     American University       Moshe Y. Vardi     University Professor     Karen Ostrum George Distinguished Service Professor in Computational Engineering     Rice University   MODERATOR:     Dr. Emran El-Badawi     Department Chair, Modern and Classical Languages     Program Director, Associate Professor, Middle Eastern Studies     University of Houston Date: May 25, 2023 Time: 6:00 PM RECEPTION, 7:00 PM MODERATED DISCUSSION Location: Asia Society of Texas, 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004 (In person & Zoom)   The event is HYBRID, FREE, but RSVP required. Those interested in attending virtually over Zoom should register via anushehsiddique@gmail.com.   For more information, click here.       May 21, 2023 - Texas Fundraiser for Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib   Date: Sunday, May 21, 2023 Time: 12 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   If you are unable to be with us in person, you can donate online at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/texas4rashida23         For more information/event flyer, click here.         May 20, 2023 - The International Festival USA (iFEST) Honoring Egypt   The International Festival of the United States of America also known as iFEST USA, is widely regarded as The Official Celebration Of Multiculturalism And Diversity, and leading celebration of the “United Nations World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development“ and we’re excited to present a national celebration in honor of Egypt. The festival promotes learning and information exchanges in support of peace, love, and friendship. iFest USA is a one day gathering of representatives and artists from Greater Houston and beyond, representing a rich cultural tapestry and unique art display with a touch of sophistication, the echoing sounds of music, and gourmet food. This globally acclaimed festival of Tradition and Culture is dedicated to cultivating and educating the world, creating a platform to share cultural heritage with individuals from around the world.    The celebration honors Egypt, the cultures of the Egyptian descent and community, and the generations of Egyptians who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success.   This national celebration will be observed at The 2023 International Festival USA, a one-day festival held on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Discovery Green in Downtown Houston, the single most ethnically diverse region within the United States.   Your presence and partnership will allow us to nationally recognize and learn more about the enormous and diverse contributions that Egyptians have made throughout American history. The Egypt celebration segment will be held from 7pm-9pm CT. Our goal is to consistently and consecutively bridge the gap of separation through partnership, uniting countries, cultures, and communities around the world each year to celebrate Diversity.   The theme for this year's celebration is "Unite. Empower. Rise. - Celebrating Solidarity, Belonging, and Community". Featuring music, theatrical performances, films, literary presentations, and cultural activities. We will honor this theme by recognizing the significant contributions of Egyptians in various industries, from the journalism, entertainment, government, business, and nonprofit sectors.   Sharing in context, marked by the COVID-19 crisis, and its impact on humanity, cultural and multicultural expressions; It has become important that Arab leaders from around the world join this celebration with multicultural, intellectual, and educational activities, This intentional work of recognition, support, and guidance will serve as the social emotional fuel to energize our Arab community and to strive for more success.      Date: Saturday, May 20, 2023 Time: 2 p.m. - 9 p.m. (Egypt celebration segment will be held from 7-9pm CT) Location: Discovery Green, Downtown Houston    For more information, click here.       May 18, 2023 - Meet Pervez Agwan - Pro-Palestinian Running for Congress          Click here for more information.       May 14, 2023 - The Nakba: A Historical Commemoration   In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, join the Houston chapter of the Palestinian Youth Movement while we host Palestinian historian, Dr. Mohammad Hashim Ghosheh!   Dr. Ghosheh is an esteemed scholar and a prolific author of the Encyclopaedia Palestinnica, a 24-volume work considered to be one of the last century’s most important academic publications on Palestine. He will be speaking to us about the historical significance of the Nakba, as well as the importance of education and history in reclaiming our role in the struggle. Dr. Ghosheh will also be presenting a synopsis of his own contributions to the documentation of Palestinian history.   Commemorating the Nakba is important not only for remembering the violent history of Palestinian dispossession at the hands of the Zionist entity, but also for reclaiming our role and responsibility to the struggle. It is important that our community is continuously engaged in our efforts to reclaim our struggle, beginning with the remembrance of our history.      Date: Sunday, May 14, 2023 Time: 5 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, 77099   “We have not forgotten, we will not forget.”    For more information/event flyer, click here.         May 7, 2023 - Poetry Recital - The Enchantment of Poetry   The Syrian American Club of Houston invites you to its English Recital Event: The Enchantment of Poetry   Dr. Samir Tuma, Wassan Orfali & Tarif Youssef-Agha   Flute music by Mohamad Rashed   Event Master: Jill Yaziji      Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 Time: 4 pm - 5:30 pm Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057   Free/Public Event   For more information/event flyer, click here.         May 5, 2023 - Miracle on the Marshes   The marshes in Iraq, home to an ancient culture, were destroyed through warfare. Hear the story of the rebirth and revival.   In Partnership with the Arab American Educational Foundation   It's the largest and most ambitious habitat recreation project ever known: to bring back to life one of the world's greatest marshlands. In the 1990s, Saddam Hussein drained the gigantic wetlands of Iraq and turned them into a desert, destroying a home to thousands of people and millions of birds. The BBC follows the work of Azzam Alwash, the visionary Iraqi engineer and CEO of Nature Iraq who will be present to introduce the film and give an update on current efforts of marsh preservation.           Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 Time: 7 - 8:30pm Location: The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, 1001 Bissonnet Street Houston, TX 77005     Click here for more information and/or to purchase tickets.      May 5, 2023 - Arabic Movie Night "Laila's Birthday" at ACC   Arabic Movie Night At The Arab American Cultural and Community Center NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH AT ACC- ARABIC MOVIE NIGHT   Arabic Movie Night (With English Subtitles) Free Admission- RSVP Required   Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 Time: Check-in Time starting 6:45 p.m., Film Starts: 7:30 p.m. sharp Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas 77099   Movie: Laila's Birthday Director: Rashid Masharawi Genre: Comedy, Drama *Drinks will be available for purchase at the venue Special Thanks to: Director Rashid Masharawi, Palestinian Film Critic Ola Alsheikh SYNOPSIS: Abu Laila used to be a judge, but because the government doesn't have the means to renew his assignment he is forced to be a taxi driver. On the day his daughter Laila becomes seven years old his wife insists that he'll be at home early and bring her a present and a cake. Abu Laila has nothing else on his mind then completing this mission. But the daily life in Palestine has other plans. Duration: 75 Minutes Production Year: 2008 عيد ميلاد ليلى لرشيد مشهراوي   ملخص: "أبوليلى" يرغب في شيءٍ واحد، ألا وهو العودة إلى المنزل في وقتٍ مبكر للاحتفال معأسرته بمناسبة عيد ميلاد السابع لإبنته الوحيدة "ليلـى" ، ولكن ليس هناك ما هو أبسط لهذا القاضي السابق الذي رجع إلى فلسطين برغبة شديدة في المساعدة على إعادة إعمار وطنه، مِن أن يُحَوِّلّه العبث النابع من الحالة الفلسطينية إلى سائق سيارة أجرة تعامله مع اللاعقلانية ومواجهة المجهول واللامعقول في المجتمع الفلسطيني القابع تحت الإحتلال الإسرائيلي يضطرالقاضي سائق التاكسي بأن يسلك طريقاً طويلاً وشاقاً، يُمَكِّنُه أخيراَ من الوصول إلى منزله ليحتفل على طريقته في "عيد ميلاد ليلى"       May 4, 2023 - The Marsh Arab Story: Ancient Cultures, Modern Lives   Discover the story of the Marsh Arabs, an endangered culture that is rising from the brink of extermination.   In Partnership with the Arab American Educational Foundation   Two great rivers - the Tigres and the Euphrates - created the largest wetland ecosystem in Western Eurasia. In this vast fertile region, civilization was born 5,000 years ago, the first literate societies emerged, cities developed, and trade and complex state bureaucracies evolved.. The Marsh Arabs, the Maʻdān,, are descendants of ancient Sumerians and Akkadians and make their home in this lush environment. This group of people developed a unique culture in antiquity centered on the marshes' natural resources. All of this changed in the 1990s due to warfare and environmental destruction. Today, this group is endangered. Cultural and environmental destruction threatens all of us, not only the Marsh Arabs. By working to preserve their culture, we are working to preserve a part of collective humanity and to discover lessons for solving future issues involving cultural and ecological destruction.   This is their story.            Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 Time: 7 - 8:30 pm Location: The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, 1001 Bissonnet Street Houston, TX 77005     Click here for more information and/or to purchase tickets.         April 1-May 5, 2023 - ACC Celebrating The Tenth National Arab Heritage Month    The Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC) is inviting you to the 10th National Arab Heritage Month April 1-May 5, 2023   Cultivating Identity    See ACC activities below.        April 30, 2023 - Turath: An Evening of Art, Culture, and Music With National Arab Orchestra   Join Asia Society and the National Arab Orchestra in celebrating Eid al-Fitr through an evening of literary and visual arts, highlighting the richness and beauty of the Arab world.   Join us and the National Arab Orchestra this Arab American Heritage Month in celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is an occasion for peace, joy, and festivity.   As part of Asia Society Texas' Eid programs, this event highlights the richness and beauty of the Arab world. Enjoy a free, curated art show, and book signings by Micheline Nader (Leap Beyond Success) and Nancy Zakhour (Elissa Discovers), as well as a ticketed reception and concert from the National Arab Orchestra Takht Ensemble, featuring vocalists Abdul Salaam AlNajjar and Hela Melki.       Date: Sunday 30 Apr 2023 Time: 4 - 9 p.m. Location: Asia Society Texas Center, 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004    Click here for more information and/or to purchase tickets.         April 28, 2023 - Comedy Show with Amer Zahr at ACC: "THE TRUTH"   Presenting his new show: THE TRUTH Special guests Bilal Sharmoug & Tarek Muhammad   Sponsored by Clutch City Cluckers, Baba Law, and The Princess Magazine Produced by Maestro: Hani Kashou   In Collaboration with the Arab American Cultural and Community Center (ACC) in Celebrating The Tenth Annual Arab Heritage Month: Cultivating Identity     Date: Friday, April 28, 2023 Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas 77099   Tickets start at $30 VIP AVAILABLE   For more information and/or to purchase tickets, click here.          April 28, 2023 - "A Social Lens on Arab Health in the U.S." Join the National Arab American Medical Association - Houston Chapter in celebrating Arab Heritage Month with an insightful presentation on "A Social Lens on Arab Health in the U.S." by Professor Kristine J. Ajrouch, PhD, hosted by National Arab American Medical Association - Houston Chapter and Baylor College of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry.    Date: April 28, 2023 Time: 5 pm Location: Baylor Medicine McNair Campus, 7200 Cambridge St., Houston, TX 77030      RSVP now to secure your spot: https://aama-houston.org/meeting-reservations/.       Click here for event flyer.          April 27, 2023 - Protest against Rice University’s “Israel at 75” Conference   JOIN US to protest Rice University’s “Israel at 75” conference.   This conference, which celebrates 75 years of colonization and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people, will platform Israeli war criminals whose political careers are defined by endless bombings on Gaza and the arrest & murder of Palestinians en mass.   HOUSTON: We say NO to platforming war criminals in our city. TAKE ACTION NOW!   ANYONE & EVERYONE across Houston and beyond can come: Let's show up for Palestine!     Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023 Time: 1-4 PM Location: Lawn outside Rice Memorial Center (RMC), Rice University, Houston, Texas    For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 27, 2023 - Art Silent Auction Benefitting Syrian Earthquake Victims    The Syrian American Club will be hosting an “Art Silent Auction Benefitting Syrian Earthquake Victims”. On Thursday, April 27, 2023, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.   Come join us for a fun event with fine art, music, and delicious snacks, all donated by local community members.   All proceeds from the auction will go to organizations working on the ground helping Syrian earthquake victims who continue to be in dire need of emergency shelter, food, clean water, and other essentials.    Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023 Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057   For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 26, 2023 - Curator Tour of the Arts of the Islamic World at the MFAH   ARAB HERITAGE MONTH AT ACC Curator Tour of the Arts of the Islamic World at the Newly Expanded Islamic Art Gallery at the MFAH- Kinder Building   Join Dr. Aimée Froom, curator of Art of the Islamic Worlds, on a tour of the exquisite galleries for Islamic Art at the MFAH. The galleries, which include works from the al-Sabah Collection, one of the greatest collections of Islamic art in the world, and the Hossein Afshar Collection, a significant selection of Persian masterworks on extended loan to the museum, is due to the launch of a 2007 initiative at the museum spearheaded by a group unique to Houston, philanthropists with strong cultural-heritage links to historically Islamic lands. Objects range from carpets and architectural fragments to exquisite ceramics, metalwork, jewelry, scientific instruments, and manuscripts. The MFAH has devoted permanent gallery space to Islamic art since 2012, and the new Hossein Afshar galleries nearly double previous display space for Islamic art. Hundreds of objects spanning more than 1,000 years reflect the breadth of historic Islamic lands, including present-day Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Morocco, Pakistan, Spain, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan" (https://www.mfah.org/exhibitions/galleries/galleries-art-islamic-worlds).   Meeting Place: Guests, please park in the Kinder Garage and meet on the lower lobby of the Kinder Building. The entrance to the garage is on Main Street, just behind the Kinder Building   Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2023 Meeting Time : 4:30 p.m. Tour: Starts at 5 p.m. sharp. The tour will last approximately 1 hour.   Location: Nancy and Rich Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 5500 Main street Houston, TX 77004   This event is free but RSVP is required and the space is limited to less than 30 guests.              April 26, 2023 - Arab Film Series Online: JADDOLAND + Talkback   In celebration of Arab American Heritage Month, the Arab Film Series Online presents: JADDOLAND. A visit to her mother’s home art studio in Texas prompts the filmmaker to explore the meaning of home and the search for belonging across three generations of her Iraqi family.   90 Minutes / 2018 / USA / Documentary / Arabic, English, Iraqi Turkmen   Date/Time: APR 26 AT 11 PM – APR 30 AT 10:55 PM CDT Location: Online       More information is posted at https://www.facebook.com/events/1170940683465638/?ref=newsfeed.          April 23, 2023 - Eid Celebration/Picnic by PAEO POSTPONED (due to inclement weather)   Sponsored by Palestinian American Engineers Organization (PAEO)    Date: Sunday, April 23, 2023 Time: 1 pm - 7 pm Location: Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479      For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 23, 2023 - EAS Sham Elnessim/Eid Al Fitr Celebration Join the Egyptian American Society in celebrating both holidays on the 23rd! An event for the whole family to enjoy!   Inflatable... Magician... Face Painting... Egg Coloring... Henna... Cookie Decorating... Outdoor Games... Bazaar!!  All this and more at our picnic on the 23rd at Bear Creek Park! Hurry up and buy your ticket!   Date: Sunday, April 23, 2023 Time: 2 pm - 6 pm Location: Bear Creek Pioneers Park, 3535 War Memorial St, Houston, TX 77084    Admission: $10/person. Buy your tickets here.   This event is a potluck! Sign up here to bring a dish.   We’re having a bazar at the celebration. A great way to support our community’s small businesses! If you’re interested in holding a booth at the bazar, please sign up here.      More information is posted here.          April 23, 2023 - Syrian American Club Eid Picnic From the The Syrian American Club:   Please note that due to the limited space and safety protocols in place by Harris County, we will not be able to accommodate members who show up unannounced. The pavilion area is fenced, and we must abide by the guidelines on how many people we let in.   Anyone who has not registered or arrives at the park without prior confirmation will be turned away. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we must follow these procedures to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees.   We appreciate your cooperation and understanding and hope to see those who we couldn’t accommodate at future events. Games, Music, Fun, Prizes Date: Sunday, April 23, 2023 Time: 2 pm - 6 pm Location: Clear Lake Park - White Top Pavilion, 5001 E NASA Pkwy, Seabrook, TX 77586     For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 23, 2023 - Iraqi American Community Eid Al-Fitr Picnic   Date: Sunday, April 23, 2023 Time: 2 pm Location: Waterstone Ranch Turkish Farm, 14614 County Rd 820, Rosharon, TX 77583     For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 22 2023 - ACC Eid El Fitr Celebration in partnership with PACC   Eid El Fitr Celebration Party in Partnership with PACC (The Palestinian American Cultural Center)   Join PACC and ACC for a day of fun activities for Kids and family.   Food, Games, Music, Shopping, and more.   Eid Gifts for Ages 10 and Under.   Performances by Salem Omran and Jabour Bakla   Date: Saturday, April 22, 2023 Time: 2 - 8 pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas 77099   $10 entry per car     For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 22 2023 - MAS Katy Center Eid Ul Fitr Carnival and Bazaar   We'd love for you and your family and friends to join us for the Eid ul Fitr Carnival and Bazaar at MAS Katy on Saturday April 22 from 4-9pm. It's going to be a great day filled with fun things like a shopping bazaar, rides, food, face painting, balloon artists, and so much more. We hope to see you there!   Date: Saturday, April 22, 2023 Time: 4-9pm Location: MAS Katy Center, 1800 Baker Rd, Houston, TX 77094       For more information/Event Flyer, click here.          April 15, 2023 - Broadcast of Conversation with National Arab Orchestra (NAO) Conductor Maestro Michael Ibrahim and ACC Arabic School Students    Broadcast: A Conversation with NAO Maestro Michael Ibrahim   Tune into a candid conversation between National Arab Orchestra's Conductor Michael Ibrahim and the ACC Arabic School students regarding the uniqueness of Arabic Music and what sets it apart from Western Music   Date: Saturday, April 15, 2023 Time: 12 noon   To watch the broadcast, login to the ACC Facebook page.          April 14, 2023 - International Day of Al-Quds-Houston   Al-Quds Day is an annual event held on the last Friday of Ramadan to show support for the Palestinian cause.   The goal is to raise awareness and support for the oppressed and their struggle for justice and freedom. By working together, we can amplify our message and create a more significant impact.   With the recent escalation through the attacks in Al-Aqsa mosque as worshippers prayed during the month of Ramadan, and airstrikes being launched into Gaza and Lebanon throughout the night, our community must stand up and show out at this protest. We must stand in solidarity and organize for action.   Mark your calendars, make your posters, grab your kuffiyehs and flags.   Date: Friday, April 14, 2023 Time: 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Location: In front of the Consulate General of Israel, 24 Greenway Plaza, Houston, TX 77046   Click here for event flyer.        April 8, 2023 - PCRF Houston Ramadan Iftar Dinner   The Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF) is having its second Ramadan Iftar Dinner to benefit children in the Middle East.   Date: Saturday, April 8, 2023 Time: 7 pm Location: Fadi’s Mediterranean Banquet Hall, 2000 Highway 6 South, Houston, Texas 77077   Adults and Kids 9+: $60 Kids (4-8): $25  Table (10 seats): $600    For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.       April 8, 2023 - Easter Egg Hunt and Book Reading and Signing at ACC   Easter at the Arab American Center: A Family Event (Free Admission)   With Book Reading and Signing   Easter is celebrated by a large segment of Arab Christians. Join us for an afternoon of fun in celebration of Easter with a cultural touch from the Arab World. We particularly welcome our Non-Arab Friends to share with us this event of cross cultural Holiday Observance experience. Kids will be further treated to book reading by Nancy Zakhour.   Join us for fun activities and program!   Book Reading and Signing Event: Elissa and the World of Olives by Author Nancy Zakhour Easter Egg Hunt Kids activities Corner: Easter Cookie decorating FREE picture with Easter Bunny Fun songs and dance in Arabic and English! Free refreshments Kids supervision is required by the parents. Thank you for your cooperation   Registration will close on Tuesday, April 4 by 5 p.m.   Date: Saturday, April 8, 2023 Time: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas 77099    Admission is free, but registration highly appreciated to plan for activities and refreshments   Click here to RSVP.       April 7-8, 2023 - "Simple as Water" Film Screening benefit earthquake relief in Syria and Turkey   The Syrian American Club is co-sponsoring the screening of "Simple as Water" at the DeLUXE Theater on April 7 and April 8.   The film is a "meditation on the elemental bonds of family told through portraits of four Syrian families in the aftermath of war" and the filmmaker's portion of the box office proceeds will be donated to the Maram Foundation, to benefit earthquake relief in Syria and Turkey.   Followed by a conversation with Academy Award winning Director Megan Mylan and Houston film subjects Omar Sabha, Abed Sabha and Omar Shishakly. This screening is co-presented by Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Earthquake Relief work of the Maram Foundation.     Time: Fri, Apr 7th, 7:30 PM, Sat, Apr 8th, 4:30 PM Location: The DeLuxe Theater, 3303 Lyons Ave, Houston, TX 77020        We encourage you to attend and help keep the attention on the continued need for earthquake relief in the stricken areas.    Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.       April 1, 2023 - Ramadan Iftar at ACC: A Cultural Immersion Experience Night   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.   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 at ACC for a wonderful immersion into Ramadan traditions and cultural rituals from the Arab World as part of the celebration of Arab Heritage Month . Bring your Non-Arab Friends for a night of cross cultural discovery experience.   Check-in starts at 7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served at Sunset at the time of breaking the fast (around 7:40 p.m.)   Visit a makeshift traditional Arabian decor corner Learn about Ramadan festivities from various Arab countries Taste delicious traditional dishes and dessert from the Arab World Enjoy the Ramadan evening entertainment program:   Oud Instrumental live performance Riddle competition with prizes Mesmerizing Tannoura Dervish Performance by Sal! Mesahharati مسحراتي Kids Parade   Places are limited to 250 seats, make sure to register early to guarantee a spot. Ticket sales will close by Tuesday, March 28 or when we reach capacity, whichever happens first.   Date: April 1, 2023 Time: 7 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas 77099   Reminder that all tickets need to be booked online & purchased ahead of time prior to the event.   TICKETS: Early Bird Adults & Kids 10 years & above: $25 - Discount ends Monday, March 20 at 6 p.m. Regular Tickets: Adults and Youth 10 years and above: $30 Children Tickets: Kids between 4 and up to 9 years old: $15. This includes dinner, babysitter, and games. Kids will be in a separate room. Sibling's discount at $10 after first child. For discount, use code: sibling No kid under 4 years old. Thank you for your cooperation   Tickets are non refundable Vendors: There will be vendors Station at Separate cost. For questions or inquiries, please call 832.351.3366       March 31, 2023 - Colorectal Cancer: Screening & Prevention   Did you know that just in 2022, 52,580 lives in the United States were taken because of colorectal cancer?   The Arab American Cultural & Community Center will be holding a health panel discussion that will lead to a Q/A portion.   Join us to learn what you should know about this disease.     Date: March 30, 2023 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Online via Zoom   Click here to register.       March 27, 2023 - Refugee Health Research Symposium featuring Dr. Rana Dajani   The Arab-American Educational Foundation invites you to attend this upcoming Refugee Health Research Symposium featuring Dr. Rana Dajani, one of the world's leading Muslim female scientists and recently ranked as one of the "World's 100 Most Powerful Arab Women".   Ongoing conflicts around the world – from Syria and Afghanistan and most recently, Ukraine – continue to force families to escape death and destruction. With Houston taking a more prominent role as a destination for displaced peoples, health researchers at the University of Houston have organized the Houston Refugee Health Research Symposium on Monday, March 27, to share developments and goals toward addressing disparities and challenges (especially mental health) within these vulnerable groups.   Here is the link to register.   Date: Monday, March 27, 2023 Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm Location: Elizabeth D. Rockwell Pavilion, MD Anderson Library, University of Houston 4333 University Drive, Houston, TX, 77204    Click here for more information/event flyer.        March 21, 2023 -  Iraqi Marsh Arabs Project Info Session   The Arab-American Educational Foundation invites you to attend this upcoming information session about our co-sponsored experiential exhibit, the Iraqi Marsh Arabs Project. The Marsh Arabs Project will include the construction of an Iraqi mudhif on the Rice University campus, as well as talks, cultural activities, and a film screening on the Marsh Arabs of Iraq.   The March 20th session will provide information for opportunities in volunteer construction, involvement in the cultural and educational activities following the opening, and sponsorship/donation options.   Date: Monday, March 20, 2023 Time: 7:00pm to 8:30pm Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston, 77099      Click here for more information.       March 18, 2023 - Treasures of the East: Timeless Classics of the Arab World   A concert that highlights some of the Arab world’s most treasured pieces of music with a performance that will showcase the rich beauty and diverse heritage of the Arab world, all brought to life by the National Arab Orchestra with special guest artists, Ranine Chaar and Mohamed Mohsen.   Treasures of the East builds bridges between communities by providing a forum for people to connect through the joy of Arab music and the atmosphere of such performances the National Arab Orchestra is famed for.   Date: Saturday, March 18, 2023 Time: 8:00 PM CST Location: The Hobby Center, 800 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002    For more information, click here.        March 12, 2023 - "Scent of Spring" Poetry Recital      Date: March 12, 2023 Time: 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Location: Syrian American Club , 5729 Winsome Ln., Houston, TX 77057     Click here for more information.        March 11, 2023 - Houston: Hands off Huwara - National Liberation Not Normalization!   Join us to protest the rise of Zionist violence against Palestinians and in support of the popular resistance across Palestine.   With the recent events in and around Palestine, including the Aqaba Summit, we are seeing a rise in normalization efforts amongst Arab governments.   All the while, Zionist military massacres, land theft, and settler mobs have been as rampant as ever.   Houston, let’s bring out numbers and show that we stand against these Zionist attacks on Palestine. Let’s let the world know that we demand national liberation, not normalization.     Date: Saturday, March 11, 2023 Time: 12 - 3 PM Location: Corner of Post Oak and Westheimer in the Galleria, Houston, Texas    Click here for event flyer.        March 7, 2023 - Texas Muslim Capitol Day Texas Muslim Capitol Day (TMCD) is an event that brings together hundreds of Texas Muslims to the state's Capitol in Austin, Texas. During the event, Texas Muslims hold meetings with elected officials, a rally in front of the Capitol, and a prayer service. This event is done in collaboration with dozens of other Texas Muslim organizations, schools, Islamic centers, and other groups to empower Texas Muslims to become more civically engaged and have their voices heard.   20th Year Anniversary: This TMCD is special as it's the 20th year that Muslims have been regularly visiting the Texas State Capitol and building bridges. We are proud of our community who strive to continue this legacy. This year we hope to make it the largest TMCD to commemorate the 20 year anniversary.    Date: March 7, 2023 Location: Austin, Texas   Join CAIR Houston, CAIR DFW, CAIR Austin, and CAIR San Antonio in Austin on March 7, 2023, for our 20th year of Texas Muslim Capitol Day!   CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.   For more information or to register, click here.        March 7, 2023 - A Tale of Two Cities: The Scales of Literary History and the Ends of Comparison   Please join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 for "A Tale of Two Cities: The Scales of Literary History and the Ends of Comparison".   Presented by Dr. Samah Selim (Rutgers University—New Brunswick)   Using Niqula al-Haddad's 1910 Arabic translation of American author Ignatius Donnelly's 1890 speculative dystopia Caesar's Column: A Tale of the Twentieth Century, this talk explores different ways of thinking about the objects and ends of comparative method in relation to the literary archive. I'm especially interested in how scalar inquiry allows the reader to gather the incommensurable geographies and temporalities of (post)colonial historiography into flexible and productive relationships between people, texts and social movements that unsettle dominant liberal/national paradigms of history-making.   Samah Selim is a Professor in the Department of African, Middle Eastern and South Asian Languages and Literatures at Rutgers University—New Brunswick. She has authored two books, most recently Popular Fiction, Translation and the Nahda in Egypt (Palgrave Macmillan, 2019). Dr. Selim is also an award-winning literary translator and is the recipient of the Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation (2009), the University of Arkansas Translation of Arabic Literature Award (2012), and the National Endowment for the Arts Translation Grant (2018).   Date: Tuesday, March 7, 2023 Time:  Reception: 5:00 pm, Lecture: 5:30 pm Location: Roy G. Cullen, Room 202 (2nd Floor), University of Houston   This event is free and open to the public.   For more information, please contact Dr. Hosam Aboul-Ela: haboul-ela@uh.edu / cas@central.uh.edu.        March 5, 2023 - New Galleries for Art of the Islamic Worlds   Spring Festival “New Beginnings”    This family-friendly festival welcomes spring with celebratory traditions from across the Middle East and Asia. Immerse your senses in the sounds and flavors of the regions as you enjoy music and dance performances, poetry readings, food from local vendors, art-making activities, and more.   The “New Beginnings” festival marks the opening of the New Galleries for Art of the Islamic Worlds and anticipates Nowruz, the renewal of spring that has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years across the Middle East and Asia.       Date: March 5, 2023 Time:  1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Location: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, Texas 77005   Free Admission   For more information, click here.        March 4, 2023 - Fundraising Dinner Benefitting the Edward Said Public Library in Palestine   DINNER BENEFITING THE EDWARD SAID PUBLIC LIBRARIES-GAZA/JERUSALEM, PALESTINE   The Edward Said Library serves thousands of children, youth and families in the Gaza Strip and Jerusalem.   The event will feature the Founder of Edward Said Library, Mosab Abu Toha and Middle East Children’s Alliance Executive Director Zeiad Shamrouch.   Mosab Abu Toha will also perform a reading from his most recent volume of poetry, Things you May Find Hidden in my Ear, which is up for the 2023 National Book Critics Circle Award.   RSVP TO: Joe Shahda joe@shahdainv.com       Date: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: 5pm - 7:30pm Location: The Ramallah Club-Houston, 3310 FM 1092 Rd., Missouri City, Texas 77459   For more information about the Edward Said Library, click here.        March 4, 2023 - "Win Every Argument: The Art of Debating, Persuading, and Public Speaking" with Mehdi Hasan   JOIN US FOR HIGH TEA AND BOOK SIGNING WITH THE VERY TALENTED MEHDI HASAN!   In Win, Every Argument, award-winning British-American journalist Mehdi Hasan shows you how to argue, debate, and master public speaking.   No one ever goes into an argument intending to lose. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that every single person on the face of the planet – every man, woman, and child – has, at some moment or another, tried to win an argument.   Because arguments are everywhere. Whether it is in the comments section on Facebook, in the Houses of Parliament, or at the dinner table. We cannot escape the human urge, need, and – yes – the desire to argue.   But arguing itself tends to get a bad rap. It’s blamed for everything from political polarization to marital breakdown. But Mehdi Hasan has turned arguing into an art form and contends that debate and argument are the lifeblood of democracy, as well as the only surefire way to establish the truth. Arguments can help us solve problems and show us things we haven’t considered before. There is an intrinsic value to disagreement.   Anyone can win an argument. Mehdi Hasan will teach you how.   Join us for a masterclass from one of the most formidable debaters and interviewers of our time - Mehdi Hasan.   MEHDI HASAN is host of "The Mehdi Hasan Show" on Peacock and an MSNBC political analyst. He is a former senior columnist for The Intercept, for which he launched the "Deconstructed" podcast. He was also the presenter of "UpFront" and "Head to Head" on Al Jazeera English. He is the author of two books and the winner of the Society of Professional Journalists' 2018 Sigma Delta Chi Award for Online Column Writing.      Date: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: 1:30 p.m. Location: Southside Place Clubhouse, 3743 Garnet St., Houston TX 77005   For more information, click here.        March 1, 2023 - AAEF Annual Lecture in Ottoman History with Dr. Emine Fetvacı    Please join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston on Wednesday, March 1, for the 2023 AAEF Annual Lecture in Ottoman History   From Adam to Murad: Universal History Through Ottoman Eyes   Presented by Dr. Emine Fetvacı (Boston College)   The 2023 AAEF Annual Lecture in Ottoman History will be held at the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Pavilion (2nd floor of the M.D. Anderson Library), with a light reception at 5:30 pm followed by the lecture at 6:00 pm.   Date: Wednesday, March 1, 2023 Time:  reception at 5:30 pm followed by the lecture at 6:00 pm Location: Elizabeth D. Rockwell Pavilion (2nd floor of the M.D. Anderson Library), University of Houston   In the sixteenth century, artists and historians working for the Ottoman court in Istanbul produced multiple works of Ottoman history that eulogized the ruling elite. The books varied in content: some described the reign of a particular sultan, others focused on the military campaigns of a courtier, yet others were universal histories that fit the Ottoman dynasty into a long line of rulers including Old Testament prophets and pre-Islamic Persian heroes from the Shahnama (Book of Kings). This talk will examine Zubdat al Tawarikh, an illustrated universal history that was made for the ruler Murad III (r. 1574-1595) and its models. Through the paintings of this and other Ottoman histories, we will trace changes in the Ottoman concept of the ideal ruler during the sixteenth century.   Dr. Emine Fetvacı is the Norma Jean Calderwood University Professor in Islamic & Asian Art, Boston College. She specializes in the arts of the book in the early-modern Islamic world. Her first book, Picturing History at the Ottoman Court (Indiana University Press, 2013), was awarded the 2014 M. Fuat Köprülü Book Prize by the Ottoman and Turkish Studies Association. Her latest monograph, The Album of the World Emperor: Cross-Cultural Collecting and Album Making at the Ottoman Court (Princeton University Press, 2019), which has been nominated for the 2021 Charles Rufus Morey Award of the College Art Association, focuses on an imperial album created for the Ottoman sultan Ahmed I (r. 1603-1617), and examines the art and architecture produced during the sultan’s reign. Her most recent project examines artistic connections between the Ottoman and Mughal Empires.          This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu.      February 19, 2023 - MAX (Muslims Achieving Excellence) Texas Gala    MAX (Muslims Achieving Excellence) is a Muslim-focused Professional organization whose mission is to elevate the brand of Muslims by developing, awarding and celebrating professional Muslim success in Houston, Texas.   We cordially invite you to MAX Texas' inaugural Gala to recognize the best of our local Muslim talent and celebrate Muslim success and excellence.   Please join us for a night of celebration, entertainment, networking and recognition. Our Master of Ceremonies, Preacher Moss, will guide us through the evening as we present awards for:   1. Artist of the Year The Artist of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated significant achievement within the creative arts. 2. Entrepreneur of the Year The Entrepreneur of the Year Award will recognize an inspirational Muslim Entrepreneur who has had a significant and positive impact on the community through their business leadership. 3. Woman of the Year The Woman of the Year Award will recognize a woman who has demonstrated significant achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving her community 4. Charity of the Year The Charity of the Year Award recognizes a charity or not-for-profit that has had a significant impact in their target community. 5. Professional Excellence Award The Professional Excellence Award recognizes a Muslim who has demonstrated significant achievement, leadership, and made a positive impact in their community. 6. Restaurant of the year Award Recognizes a restaurant in the Greater Houston area who contributes back to the community and makes an influence and impact for the Muslim community at large THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW SOME OF HOUSTON'S TOP LEADERS!      Date: Sunday, February 19, 2023 Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM CST Location: Grand Tuscany Hotel 12801 Northwest Freeway Houston, TX 77040   For tickets or more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/max-texas-2023-gala-tickets-507738488487            February 18, 2023 - Donation Drive for Victims of Turkey/Syria Earthquake   In partnership with Sewa USA and AmeriCorps Texas, the Syrian American Club in Houston will hold a donation drive for the victims of the devastating earthquake that recently struck Turkey and Syria.    Date: Saturday, February 18, 2023 Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Location: 1000 West Oaks Mall, Houston   Please come out on Saturday, February 18, 2023, to 1000 West Oaks Mall, and support this effort by one or both of the following:   • Donating items listed on the attached flyer. (Donations will be accepted from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.)   • Volunteering to help receive, sort, and pack the items. (Volunteers are asked to arrive at 9:00 am.)   If you are willing to volunteer or have any questions, please email Ms. Racha Zerekli at Secretary@syrianamericanclub.com. You may also email Ms. Kira Reyna at kreyna@sewausa.onmicrosoft.com if you have any questions regarding Sewa USA or AmeriCorps Texas.          February 17, 2023 - FECC 20th Annual Fundraising Gala   Please join Friends of Egyptian Children with Cancer For the 20th Annual Fund Raising Banquet   Speaker: Mrs. Amira Abou-Taleb, A Catalyst for Health and Hope   Entertainment: The Houston Folkloric Dancer Troupe, Ayman El Khatib (singer)   Silent Auction     Date: Friday, February 17, 2023 Time: 6:30 – 10:30 PM Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, Greenway Plaza, 6 E Greenway Plaza, Houston, 77046   FECC is a Non-profit 501 (c) (3) Organization   www.FECCHouston.org   For more information call Dr. Samia Khalil 713-822-7073 or email samiakhalil41238@gmail.com, or click here.   Click here for event flyer.      February 16, 2023 - Houston: Christian Theology in the Palestinian Context   Join Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) and Fuller Seminary Houston for a talk from three esteemed Palestinian Christian leaders from Bethlehem-- Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac, and Jack Sara. Their talk will explore how Palestinian Christian theology engages with biblical notions of the Land and its inhabitants.   Date: Thursday, February 16, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm - 8 pm Central Location: Fuller Seminary Texas Campus, Classroom #181, 10200 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77042   Munther Isaac (Ph.D., Oxford Centre for Mission Studies) is the academic dean of Bethlehem Bible College in Palestine and director of the Christ at the Checkpoint conference. He is also pastor of Christmas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. He is the author of The Other Side of the Wall: A Palestinian Christian Narrative of Lament and Hope and From Land to Lands, from Eden to the Renewed Earth: A Christ-Centered Biblical Theology of the Promised Land."   Mitri Raheb (Ph.D., Philipps University at Marburg, Germany) is the founder and president of Dar al-Kalima University in Bethlehem and the co-founder of Bright Stars of Bethlehem, a not for profit 501c3 in the USA. The most widely published Palestinian theologian to date, Dr. Raheb is the author and editor of 40 books including: The Cross in Contexts: Suffering and Redemption in Palestine; Faith in the Face of Empire: The Bible through Palestinian Eyes; I am a Palestinian Christian; Bethlehem Besieged.   Jack Sara (Ph.D., Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary) is the President of Bethlehem Bible College and an ordained minster in the Evangelical Alliance Church in the Holy Land, where he maintains a role overseeing church leadership. Jack has worked extensively in the area of peace and reconciliation and has played a pioneering role in several ministries in the Bethlehem area and internationally.   Refreshments will be provided.       For more information or to register, click here.      February 9, 2023 - Naseer Shamma Musical Performance   Naseer Shamma is an Iraqi artist and a distinguished Oud player. He is recognized with over 60 awards kicked off in his graduation year with “Best Emotional Melody in Iraq” working his way up to obtain the honors of the Iraqi artist syndicate for three consecutive years from 1988-1990, Best Artist in Iraq in 1994, 1998 Royal British Academy Award, the Rotterdam Arab festival Award and many more. Oud virtuoso Naseer Shamma is joined by violinist Karen Briggs, bass guitarist Hova Burian and percussionist Richie Gajate Garcia for a musical performance @ Wortham Theater Center - Houston, Texas.   For more information about Naseer Shamma, click here.      Date: February 9, 2023 Time: 8 p.m. Location: Wortham Center/Cullen Theater, Houston, Texas   For tickets: https://tickets.houstonfirsttheaters.com/3693/3694 Discount Code: SAWA2018       For more information, click here.      February 9, 2023 - “The Black Study of an Old Matter: The Poetic Socialities of Africanité and Arabité”     The Arab-American Educational Foundation Dr. Burhan and Mrs. Misako Ajouz Professor of Arab Studies warmly invites you to “The Black Study of an Old Matter: The Poetic Socialities of Africanité and Arabité” Presented by Professor R.A. Judy (University of Pittsburgh) Co-sponsored by the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies, Department of English, and the Department of African American Studies.   In his lecture, “The Black Study of an Old Matter: The Poetic Socialities of Africanité and Arabité,” Professor R.A. Judy considers the way in which the confluence of conceptual performative poetic practices of living with nothingness challenge the political foundations of the neoliberal world order. Two illustrations of this are “sṭambālī” and “diwān.”   R.A. Judy is a Professor of Literature at the University of Pittsburgh, where he teaches courses related to the fields of Comparative literature, Black Critique, World Literature with particular emphasis on Arabic, and African Literature, as well as Semiotics and Literary Theory. He is author of (Dis)forming the American Canon: The Vernacular of African Arabic American Slave Narrative (1992), and Sentient Flesh: Thinking in Disorder, Poiēsis in Black (2020). He has published numerous essays in the areas of philosophy, contemporary Islamic philosophy, literary/cultural theory, music, and Arabic and American literatures. .     Date: Thursday, February 9, 2023 Time: 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm Location: University of Houston, Student Center North, Senate Chamber Room (204)   This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu         February 4, 2023 - Twelfth Biennial Ben Qurrah Award Gala   National Arab American Medical Association - Houston Chapter   We honor Arab-Americans who have made remarkable contributions in the field of medicine and in our community.   The Houston Chapter’s biennial black-tie gala is held in association with the Ben Qurrah Awards presentation. The event honors Arab-Americans who have made remarkable contributions in the field of medicine and who have succeeded in the worldwide advancement of science.   The Gala can benefit from your support in two ways – as a financial supporter and as an attendee. There are many donation levels with various visibility opportunities. Contact the Chapter’s administrative office for detailed information. This organization is tax-exempt under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code and is eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable donations for federal income tax purposes.   Special Guest MC & Performer – Amer Zahr       Date: February 4, 2023 Time: 6:30 pm – Reception & Silent Auction, 7:00 pm – Dinner and Program Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Houston, TX 77010       For more information, click here.     February 2, 2023 - Sisters in the Mirror: A History of Muslim Women and the Politics of Feminism   Please join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston for a book launch discussion of Sisters in the Mirror: A History of Muslim Women and the Global Politics of Feminism by Dr. Elora Shehabuddin, featuring contributions from Dr. Elora Chowdhury, Dr.Kamran Asdar Ali, and Dr. Susan Ferguson.      Date: Thursday, February 2, 2023 Time: reception at 5:30 pm followed by the reading and discussion at 6:00 pm Location: Conrad Hilton Ballroom, Hilton University of Houston      For more information, click here.     January 31, 2023 - Texas Muslim Capitol Day POSTPONED Due to Winter Storm Warnings across Texas Texas Muslim Capitol Day (TMCD) is an event that brings together hundreds of Texas Muslims to the state's Capitol in Austin, Texas. During the event, Texas Muslims hold meetings with elected officials, a rally in front of the Capitol, and a prayer service. This event is done in collaboration with dozens of other Texas Muslim organizations, schools, Islamic centers, and other groups to empower Texas Muslims to become more civically engaged and have their voices heard.   20th Year Anniversary: This TMCD is special as it's the 20th year that Muslims have been regularly visiting the Texas State Capitol and building bridges. We are proud of our community who strive to continue this legacy. This year we hope to make it the largest TMCD to commemorate the 20 year anniversary.    Date: January 31, 2023 POSTPONED Location: Austin, Texas   Join CAIR Houston, CAIR DFW, CAIR Austin, and CAIR San Antonio in Austin on January 31st, 2023, for our 20th year of Texas Muslim Capitol Day!   CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.   For more information or to register, click here.

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Click here for a list of Current/Upcoming Events.