The Levantine Center serves a cultural liaison between America and the Middle East. Through art, music, live performances and discussion forum, the center shines a light on the human aspect of this tarnished culture. Communication is key to breach any gaps or misconceptions and that's exactly what the center provides through various media.
While immersed in my graduate work on MIddle Eastern musicians in Los Angeles, the Levantine Cultural Center was not only a total source of inspiration, but their mission was perfectly aligned with my thesis topic of musicians being a conduit for bridging social, political and religious differences. I couldn't have landed in a better organization for finding people dedicated to the cause of creating dialogue and intercultural exchange through the arts. Being on the board further reinforced for me that LCC is truly a revitalizing force that energizes people to collaborate through their commonalities, rich cultural sharing and humanity. LCC's programs get us to venture outside our comfort zones to experience new cultural terrain which, in contrast to the current ideological 'clash' discourse that dominates so much of the airwaves, is a breath of fresh air. The work done by the dedicated members of this organization are part of a very important global cultural movement that I've been honored to be a part of.
When a turbulent civil war threatened the safety of my family, I moved to this great country of ours to begin a new life here. After witnessing firsthand the tragedies that occur when dialogue between different peoples break down, I saw in the Levantine Cultural Center an opportunity to support an organization that is dedicated towards building bridges of communication and understanding between different people. I am proud of this country’s reputation as a home to “huddled masses yearning to breathe free,” as the inscription on the Statue of Liberty reads. However, as an Arab Muslim woman, I find myself constantly facing others’ stereotypes and preconceived notions of me, even in my own neighborhood. Nevertheless, in my journeys, I have learned that I am not alone. The only way to combat this prejudice that often rears its head in the forms of war, violence, discrimination and apathy is through Education and that is what the Levantine Center provides.