Unlocking the Vibrant Tapestry of Arab Culture: A Summer Camp's Journey

In the heart of West Philadelphia, a summer camp is transforming the lives of children from diverse backgrounds, immersing them in the rich tapestry of Arab culture. Hosted by the nonprofit organization Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture, this two-week program offers a unique opportunity for Arab and non-Arab kids alike to come together, explore their shared heritage, and forge lasting connections.

Empowering Children, Embracing Diversity

Discovering the Rhythms of Arab Drumming

Seven-year-old Jana Matta-al-Sholi's eyes sparkled with excitement as she learned that the Arabic language has four distinct words for "drum." Through hands-on experiences, she and her fellow campers delved into the captivating world of traditional Arab drumming, marveling at the powerful beats that resonated through the air. "It was loud and it was really cool. I liked the instrument," Jana exclaimed, her enthusiasm palpable.The camp's focus on Arabic language, music, and art provided a nurturing environment for children to connect with their cultural roots. Amani Abduh, who taught the language and calligraphy sessions, understood the importance of gently introducing these elements to the young participants. "We try to open the door for them to get exposed to a different culture," she explained. "I hope that they keep the door open and they go through it to explore more about the Arabic culture and Arabic language."

Fostering Intercultural Connections

The camp's diverse attendees, ranging from Arab American children to those of African American, Jewish, and Christian backgrounds, came together in a spirit of unity and mutual understanding. Eissa Attar, a camp counselor, marveled at the seamless way these children bonded, treating each other as equals regardless of their heritage. "For them, there's kind of no difference. They all treat each other as equal," he observed.This inclusive environment allowed the campers to embrace their unique identities while also learning about the rich cultural traditions of their peers. Attar, who grew up in Saudi Arabia, found great joy in sharing his own experiences and knowledge with the children, from traditional folktales to vocabulary and history. "They always want to talk about the Middle East and their origins. … And it feels like they really enjoy the free space that they have here to discuss their beautiful heritage," he said.

Nurturing Cultural Pride and Exploration

The camp's mission extends beyond simply imparting knowledge; it aims to instill a deep sense of cultural pride and a desire for further exploration. Attar noted that sometimes, children from immigrant families can be hesitant to embrace their heritage, but the camp provided a safe and welcoming space for them to feel empowered. "A lot of kids who come from immigrant families sometimes are embarrassed of their culture. And I just want them to be proud of their culture and to be proud of their language. And to feel comfortable talking about it," he said.The camp's approach to teaching Arabic language and calligraphy was intentionally designed to spark curiosity and open the door to deeper engagement. Abduh understood that the campers might not retain extensive knowledge after the program, but her goal was to inspire them to continue their cultural exploration. "We try to open the door for them to get exposed to a different culture," she explained. "I hope that they keep the door open and they go through it to explore more about the Arabic culture and Arabic language."

Embracing Arab Cuisine and Beyond

The camp's impact extended beyond the classroom, as Attar observed subtle yet meaningful changes in the campers' daily lives. He took note of the Arab children bringing traditional dishes from their home cultures, such as an Egyptian meal, to their lunchboxes. But what truly delighted him was seeing non-Arab campers also incorporating Arab cuisine into their meals, inspired by their newfound appreciation for the culture. "One of the kids was telling me how she's learning to make Tunisian toast and how she really loves za'atar," he shared, marveling at the cross-cultural exchange.These small but significant moments underscored the camp's ability to transcend boundaries and foster a genuine appreciation for Arab culture. Attar recognized that many American families may not have easy access to learning about the "beauty of Arabic culture," and the camp provided a unique opportunity to bridge that gap.The Arab Arts and Culture summer camp's legacy extends far beyond the two-week program, as it plants the seeds of cultural understanding and empowerment in the hearts and minds of its young participants. By creating a safe and inclusive space for exploration and discovery, the camp empowers children to embrace their diverse identities, forge lasting connections, and embark on a lifelong journey of cultural appreciation and understanding.