Stories shape our understanding of the world, and in today’s world, it is more important than ever to reclaim the power to tell our own stories. As Edward Said wrote 40 years ago, we must seize the "permission to narrate." This event highlights the transformative power of storytelling and honors those who create and share these narratives through words, art, food, and drink.

Join us for a delicious and beautiful Shami spread and drinks as we celebrate the resilience and impact of storytelling in its many forms while standing in solidarity with those whose voices illuminate the world.

Featured Storytellers: Omar Offendum, Syrian-American artist, poet, and rapper; Hala Alyan, a Palestinian-American poet, writer, and clinical psychologist. Moderator: Hoda Osman, executive editor for Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ).

Supporting a Cause:
Proceeds from the event will be donated to a project led by Palestinian journalist Sabrin Abu Khatla. The project is dedicated to providing fellow journalists in Gaza with essential food packages, including staples like rice, oil, sugar, tea, and pasta. Sabrin has meticulously researched market prices and compiled a detailed cost breakdown to ensure transparency. The total amount needed is $10,225, which we aim to raise on this special night to support her vital efforts.