Members of the Arab-American Heritage Club at Stagg High School in Palos Hills celebrate Ramadan with a traditional dinner, showcasing their culture and heritage.
Members of the Arab-American Heritage Club at Stagg High School show off a traditional garment called “abaya” during the club’s Ramadan Dinner on March 20. Some of the dishes served include warak dawali , maklouba and knafa, a traditional sweet. Events unfolding half a world away directly affect members of a cultural club at Stagg High School in Palos Hills , putting even more responsibility on the shoulders of its sponsor.
“Hearing her recount how her mother’s home was destroyed reinforced my commitment to stand in solidarity with her and other students in our building who are navigating similar traumas and want their voices heard,” she explained. Part of that mission is celebrating Arab Heritage Month. The club has activities all month, such as a visit with state Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid on April 24 and a performance by the University of Chicago Middle Eastern Music Ensemble. A special focus is the week of April 8 to 12, when trivia games are offered throughout school halls via QR code, henna artists come during lunch periods, and facts, flags and information about famous Arab Americans are posted around Stagg.
Atallah said student reaction to the club has been positive. “Students are delighted to have a club that celebrates their culture, and I’m grateful for the support from administrators. … We are fortunate to have a supportive district that values cultural celebration,” she said. Member Layla Fakhouri, a freshman, said the organization has taught her to “not be embarrassed by where you’re from.”
Member Suzie Shehayber has belonged for two years and has “come to realize how important our voice is.” Shehayber encouraged other students to join. “I would explain to them how becoming a member of the Arab club is a great way to get more knowledge about our customs and cultures. And what a lot of fun and excitement it is to organize new events, share them on social media to gain more exposure, and assist in putting up posters in schools that teach students about Arab culture!”
Arab-American Heritage Club Stagg High School Ramadan Cultural Club Palos Hills Traditional Dinner Culture Heritage
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