Author: Mashrou Wanabqa

The Levantines on the Titanic

With suitcases full of their precious belongings as well as dreams of a better life, over 100 Syrian/Levantine passengers boarded the Titanic. Most of them had all their life savings with them, and one lady even brought yogurt-starter so she could make her Levantine recipes once her family arrived on the new continent.
In the 1997 movie “Titanic”, there was a brief glimpse of an Arabic speaking family and the word “Yalla!”, meaning “come on” or “hurry”, was heard, as an ode to the Levantine passengers, the vast majority of whom were Christians.

Matilde Chelhot

The first Syrian businesswoman! Matilde Chelhot was a visionary leader who used her wealth and influence to create a major educational institution that offered vocational training to the poor and needy. She was also a humanitarian who worked with the Red Crescent and donated everything she owned for the benefit of the working class. In this article, you will discover the amazing life and legacy of Matilde Chelhot, who left behind a fragrant memory of good deeds, altruism, achievement, and inspiration.

Syrians Migrating to the US

Did you know that Syrian Americans have been in the US since 1880? In this article, you will discover their rich and diverse history, culture, and contributions to various fields in America.

19 Syrian Women to Remember on Women’s Day

Today, we remember all the Syrian women in our lives who have not only had to endure years of war and its consequences, but a society that has also actively hindered her progress. We remember Syrian women who have excelled abroad despite hardship, who preserve our culture and heritage, and who contributed to society through liberation, progress, medicine, arts, and culture; the Syrian women that have made our lives worth living for.

Yervant Stepanian

A centenarian pioneer enriching Damascus’ heritage, introducing the transformative Jacquard technique to elevate the city’s iconic brocade industry.

The Lives of Queer People in Syria

In an attempt to “eradicate” them, our society is largely silent about its queer population. Behind this facade of silence are many heartbreaking stories and lived realities of queer people who have been ignored and left to live in hell due to laws in Syria that not only criminalize their personal endeavors, but their whole existence; laws that fail to criminalize violence instigated by surrounding hostile environments. It is time for everyone to understand that a Queer person’s feelings are never ever by choice… how insane would it be for one to “choose” a life of continuous struggle.

The Syrian Society for Assisting the LGBTQ+ Community is an unlicensed association due to the country’s policies and oppressive society. Their objectives include:

– helping individuals in the  community, especially those whose lives are threatened by their surroundings
– providing psychological support for those facing emotional distress
– offering online awareness sessions for those struggling with self-acceptance and societal differences regarding sexual orientation
– and assisting with relocation through the United Nations or Kandil organization in neighboring countries.

For urgent contact: [email protected]. Instagram page: syrasslgbt.

Rami Al Ali

The Syrian fashion virtuoso shaping style, breaking norms, and celebrating the synergy between art and fashion.