Written By: Anjali B. at Foster City Library
This April, San Mateo County Libraries is excited to celebrate Southwest Asian and North African Heritage Month!
Diversity of the SWANA Region
While this commemorative month has been known by other names, including Arab-American Heritage Month, SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) is a geographical term that honors the vastness of this region and the rich diversity of cultures, languages, traditions and faiths represented throughout.
Though many do, not everyone from this part of the world identifies as Arab. The region is home to over a billion people and a growing diaspora, who speak languages like Farsi, Turkish or dialects of Arabic (among many others). SWANA people may belong to various communities, including nomadic tribes, ethnoreligious groups and more. Each community has its own distinct identity and influence on the broader world.
Explore, Connect and Celebrate
SWANA Heritage Month is a wonderful time to learn more about the complex histories, politics, challenges and triumphs that have shaped these communities and celebrate their vibrant cultures. Whether through food, art, literature, music or other traditions, SWANA communities have made unique and significant contributions to our cultural fabric. We invite patrons of all ages to meet your neighbors from this region, browse our book lists and attend our programs to deepen your understanding and appreciation of SWANA culture.
Meet Deena Shakir, Author of Leena Mo, CEO
In this picture book, Leena Mo, a young Iraqi American girl, hates shoveling snow—so she invents a snow-shoveling robot that becomes so popular she turns the idea into a booming business!
What’s next for Leena Mo, CEO? Visit our libraries to meet author Deena Shakir and ask her yourself!
Pan-Arabic Drumming with Faisal Zedan
Learn all about the different Arabic drums: the derbakki, the riqq and the frame drum! Syrian music teacher and performer Faisal Zedan will engage families with songs and rhythms from a range of Arabic music traditions, from classical music to folk songs and pop. He will demonstrate a few beats you can try out for yourself! Find a drumming event near you.
Storytime with Author Wafa Shami
Wafa, a mother, food blogger and children's book author, began writing stories—some inspired by her own childhood memories—to share with her son when he was just two years old. Learn about traditional Palestinian foods with her adorable picture book about two ingredients that make the perfect pair—When Za’atar Met Zeit! Learn more about our Storytimes with Author Wafa Shami.
Recommended Reading for SWANA Heritage Month
Check out these recommended stories for kids, teens and adults!
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