Summary
1) What did you learn from the “Arab and Other Middle Eastern Americans” article? Be specific and provide examples from the reading.
During the late 1900’s, the United States experienced a significant influx of Middle Eastern immigrants, a demographic shift that profoundly influenced the nation's cultural diversity. Nonetheless, deep-seated negative stereotypes have persisted, often wrongly labeling Middle Eastern immigrants under the broad term 'Arab.' These misconceptions stem from a complex interplay of international relations and historical factors.”Middle Eastern immigrant communities are often lumped together by US politicians and the general public as ‘Arabs’. Persians and even non-Middle East groups like South Indians and Pakistanis have shared the brunt of widespread anti-Arab (and anti-Iranian) prejudice.”
2) Discuss something you learned and/ or can relate to from 1-2 of this week’s videos.
I relate a lot to the TED talk by Melika Rahmani as I am also Middle Eastern and have gone through similar situations as she has. While I knew it was based on ignorance and arrogance I knew it was based on misconceptions from being unfamiliar with these places and blindly listening to the media.
3) Discuss the article on “Literacy Reform in the Middle East.” Provide examples from the reading.
The Greater Middle East Initiative, a strategic project launched under the Bush administration, is explained in this article. Its main objective was to support political and social change in Muslim and Arab countries and to open doors for the formation of democracy. It also emphasizes the transforming potential of reading and education, illuminating the significant impact they may have on a variety of socioeconomic issues.
4) Share your source on this topic–let us know what it is, why you selected it, and why it matters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdFJUKmkzBI&ab_channel=TEDxTalks
In this video, Rebecca Lowe offers a perspective that challenges common misconceptions about the Middle East. While the video goes into various aspects, the core message likely involves reevaluating preconceived notions and stereotypes about the region, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of its diverse cultures and complexities.
One thought on “Conversation 5:”
Hi Adham! I think your source was very interesting, and I would be curious to hear your perspective on these misconceptions and how they relate to literacy. One point that I don’t believe is talked about enough is how these misconceptions stem from a lack of literacy. I feel like the conversation is often shifted towards discussing what these misunderstandings are, instead of what they’re rooted in. Melika Rahmini made a crucial point in her TedTalk when she mentioned that stereotypes are often based on what is portrayed in the media. Perhaps if people from privileged cultures took the time to actually understand more marginalized cultures, there would be fewer misconceptions about the world around us.