Look, I may not be an explorer, or an adventurer, or a treasure-seeker, or a gunfighter, Mr. O’Connell, but I am proud of what I am…I am an Arab American! Although this iconic quote from Evie Carnahan’s monologue in the 1999 film The Mummy doesn’t exactly end that way (in reality, Evie surprises us with her hilariously cute assertion that “I am a librarian!”), it’s safe to assume that this half-Egyptian icon would be right on par with this month’s celebration of cultural pride.
Arab American Heritage month, first established in 2017, is a celebration of the accomplishments of a diverse range of Americans of Arab descent, those of whom, per the Smithsonian, “have advanced the nation’s achievements in diplomacy, science, technology, as well as in art and culture.” From the Levant all the way to North Africa, the Arab world is comprised of a beautiful kaleidoscope of peoples, cultures, and languages. This calls for some repping of our own, don’t you think, N Crowd?
To get into the spirit of cultural celebration and appreciation, here are some contributions from the Arab and Arab American community to check out: must-hear music, literature to lose yourself in, and coffee…locally and internationally.
Cafes for the Caffeine Lovers
Without a doubt, the Arab world is renown for its cardamom coffee. A bit of hot water, some espresso-like cups, regional spices—and poof—your own pot of Turkish coffee! Pour a few cups for yourself or share with friends (either are socially acceptable). Not a heavy coffee drinker? There are options for you as well; many of them Chicago-based.
For those of us out of state or internationally, Qahwah House and Al Hamawi are our best friends. Try the rapidly growing Yemeni coffee chain, Qahwah House, located in Michigan, New York, Illinois and Ohio for some strong teas or Turkish coffees.
In the mood for some roastery delights and twists on matcha, chai, and lattes? Originally based in Amman, Jordan, Al Hamawi has expanded across the Chicagoland suburbs—and their menus are just as unforgettable as Qawah House’s. Chicagoans, don’t hesitate to make the commute and check out yet another two Yemeni chains—Haraz and Qamaria—I promise you won’t regret it.
Books Written by Arab and Arab-American Authors
What if I told you that Arabs have poetry and literature burning in their blood? Switch up your to-be-read list with some fabulous works by Arab and Arab-American authors. Looking for something heart-wrenching and poetic? Pick up a copy of As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh and Saleem Haddad’s Guapa. Beware of love-stories that will make you cry, lyrical prose, glimmers of hope, and the brutal realities of war.
Craving a more day-to-day portrayal that sheds a refreshing light on social and political history? Voices of Jordan, written by Rana F. Sweis, brilliantly showcases the everyday and underlying challenges faced in the region. Look out, you might find yourself having a conversation with a cartoonist over a cup of coffee. In the more fantastical realm of writing is Weavingshaw by Heba Al-Wasity. Is seeing the dead right up your alley? What about a slow burn romance? If so, you’re nestled between the right pages.
Musical and Historical Contributions
We need some music to accompany our cups of coffee and the new books we’ve picked up, no? Float over to Fairuz, the internationally famous Lebanese singer and one of the most iconic voices of the Arab world. You’ll be serenaded by a blend of traditional, folk, pop, and jazz-like influences that makes this genre of music timeless. And she’s been sampled by Beyonce? All the more iconic for music history.
On the more contemporary end, you absolutely must give Elyanna, Shakira, Nancy Ajram, and Saint Levant each a listen. Who knew Latin-Arab rhythm could sound so good? Paired with Arabic Hip Hop? These artists are changing the music genre-game, and girl, I’m so sold.
So what will it be? Coffee? Music? Books? More? Check out the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History to explore oral histories and artifacts from Arab American immigrants from Syria and Lebanon. Happy Arab American Heritage Month, N Crowd!
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