Arab Voices Community Calendar/Announcements
The events listed below are not necessarily endorsed or sponsored by Arab Voices. Listing them on this site is a service to the community to be aware of activities and events in the Greater Houston Area. To include an event on this calendar, send e-mail to info@arabvoices.net.

2025 Past Events	Click here for a list of UPCOMING events._

November 15, 2025 - Islamic Arts Festival      The Islamic Arts Festival is bigger & better this year! With over 50 artists, including some of the best-known artists in the USA and Canada, multiple workshops, an academic program, a fantastic lineup of films, evening entertainment programs, live art demonstrations, children’s art activities, and of course lots of food options, the Islamic Arts Festival has never been BIGGER & BETTER!   Come check out for yourself what we have in store for you at the 12th annual Islamic Arts Festival.   With two full days of back-to-back programming, there is surely something for everyone in the family at the Islamic Arts festival. COME FOR ONE of these amazing programs… And STAY FOR ALL!   Free Admissions*! All Welcome! University of Houston, Student Center South 4455 University Dr, Houston, TX 77204 Saturday, 15th of November: Visual Arts Display. 10.30 AM-5.30 PM Comedy Show and Entertainment. 6.00 PM- 10.30 PM. Sunday, 16th of November: Visual Arts Display. 10.30 AM-5.30 PM   For more info: https://islamicartssociety.org/

November 6, 2025 - Harmony for Humanity      Harmony for Humanity: Supporting communities in Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan   Since 1968, Anera has helped refugees and others hurt by conflicts in Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan live with purpose and hope. Please join us on Nov. 6th to learn more about our vital work in the region, including ongoing efforts in Gaza and the West Bank.   Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM Location: The Bougainvilleas, 12126 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077   For more info or to purchase tickets: https://support.anera.org/a/houston-tickets   Event Flyer

November 4, 2025 - "A State of Passion" Film Screening      Movie Night at the ACC. Houston premiere of "A State of Passion", a documentary by Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi.   This screening is held in solidarity with the Palestine Cinema Days Festival, whose activities in Palestine were suspended due to the ongoing war on Gaza. "A State of Passion" has received three awards at the Cairo International Film Festival, including Best Documentary Film. Date: November 4, 2025 Time: 7 p.m. Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, TX 77099   Event Flyer

November 2, 2025 - We Have Hope: Gaza and the World's Oppressed Need Us      A benefit dinner that turns our compassion into hope for those in need in Gaza and around the world.   Join special guests Dr. Hatem Bazian and Dr. Raed Alrosan for a night of powerful inspiration and compassion in action.   Date: November 2, 2025 Time: 5 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, TX 77099   Register at https://btml.us/houston4hope Buffet dinner will be served.   Dr. Hatem Bazian Keynote Speaker Dr. Bazian is a faculty member at University of California, Berkeley, a leading decolonial scholar whose work centers Islam's epistemology and global south analysis. He founded the Islamophobia Studies Center, serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Islamophobia Studies Journal, and is President of the International Islamophobia Studies and Research Association. Dr. Bazian co-founded Zaytuna College, is President of the Northern California Islamic Council, co-founder and chairman of the board of American Muslims for Palestine, and chairman of the board of the Muslim Legal Fund of America. Dr. Raed Alrosan Director of the Tajweed Institute, Houston, TX Dr. Alrosan is known for his wealth of knowledge, charisma. and ability to engage with all people, young and old. He has served as an imam in various Masajid, and has a track record for bringing communities together. He has also acquired his Bachelors Degree In Islamic Studies from the Islamic University of Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah. He has acquired is Masters and PhD in Islamic Studies from the Islamic Studies Department at GTF Graduate Theological Foundation and is a Director of the Tajweed Institute in Houston. Monzer Taleb Motivational Speaker, Baitulmaal Sh. Monzer has served numerous roles as a community leader and motivational speaker. He has been actively involved in several school and mosque boards and currently serves as Motivational Speaker at Baitulmaal.   Event Flyer

October 4-November 8, 2025 - Gaza Habibti Photo Exhibit - Life in Gaza      Following its much-acclaimed success in May at MATCH downtown, the Gaza Habibti exhibit is now coming to the Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC), offering our community the opportunity to experience a showcase that has touched audiences worldwide.   The Gaza Habibti photography exhibition first began in 2009, when a group of photographers from Gaza set out to document the everyday lives of their people. Their work captures not only moments of struggle, but also resilience, humanity, and hope. Over the years, more than 20 photographers and photojournalists have contributed to this collective effort, offering a deeply personal window into Gaza’s untold stories.   At ACC, the exhibit will feature a carefully curated selection of photographs that reflect daily life, challenges, and perseverance in Gaza.   We invite you to visit and experience this extraordinary collection that honors both the beauty and resilience of the people of Gaza.   Date: October 4 - November 8, 2025 Time: Monday to Friday: 10am-3pm, Saturday: 10am-1pm Location: ACC, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, TX 77099   Event Flyer

October 25, 2025 - ACC Annual Unity & Friendship Gala      The Arab American Cultural & Community Center Board of Directors and Mrs. Hoda Kardoush & Dr. Dima Suki request the pleasure of your company at honoring   Dr. Mahmoud Rabie ~ Outstanding Community Service Award Dr. George Zaibaq, O.D ~ Lifetime Achievement Award Mrs. Lina Sabouni ~ Inspiring Arab Woman Award Honesty Environmental Services ~ Business Philanthropy Award   Highlighting AL QUDS ~ Jerusalem Gathered In SPIRIT, UNITED FOR PEACE   Master of Ceremony: Mr. Hamzah Saadah   Live Entertainment, Silent Auction   Date: October 26, 2024 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Omni Hotel, 4 Riverway Dr., Houston, TX 77056   RSVP by Sunday, October 12, 2025 832.351.3366 or gala@acchouston.org.

Deadline: October 15, 2025 - AAEF Short Story Writing Contest      For information: https://theaaef.org/contest

October 10-12, 2025 - RAWIFest       RAWIFest 2025 will be held from Friday, October 10, to Sunday, October 12 in Houston, Texas. Keynote speakers will be Fady Joudah and Noor Naga. The conference consists of readings, panels, workshops, roundtables, and celebrations of both emerging and established SWANA creatives.   RAWIFest is a biannual conference that has been held for three decades and running, bringing together Arab and SWANA creatives as well as non-SWANA allies–not only poets, prose writers, and playwrights, but visual artists, performance artists, musicians, educators and scholars–both in diaspora in North America as well as from other regions. Find more information about registration, the full schedule, accessibility, and more on the website HERE.

October 4, 2025 - Two Years of Genocide: Rise Up For Gaza      International Day of Action   Date: October 4, 2025 Time: 2 p.m. Location: Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St., Houston, Texas   Event Flyer

October 3, 2025 - Michael Kardoush: Reads from his Latest Book, "From Nazareth the Story Began"      Join us Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd., Houston, Texas.   Michael S. Kardoush reads from his latest book, "From Nazareth the Story Began" Live Performance: Traditional Palestinian songs by the talented Nibal Malshi Reception at 6:30 PM with refreshments Event begins at 7:00 PM Limited to 200 guests – First come, first served! RSVP now https://forms.gle/Kyv2tUHuHa4xu68g6

September 13, 2025 - Syrian American Club's Annual Scholarship Endowment Gala      Date: September 13, 2025

September 10, 2025 - AAEF Nijad and Zeina Fares Lecture Featuring Dr. Omar Dewachi      The AAEF Nijad and Zeina Fares Endowed Lecture in Modern Arab Studies Presents, "Wounds of War: How Conflict Rewrites the Boundaries of Medicine" with Dr. Omar Dewachi. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Alumni Hall Room 104 at UH Hilton, with a reception at 5:30 PM followed by a lecture at 6:00 pm. Dr. Dewachi explores the enduring legacies of war on health, medicine, and the body in the Middle East. Trained in medicine in Iraq and public health in Beirut, he received his PhD in anthropology from Harvard University. He is the author of Ungovernable Life: Mandatory Medicine and Statecraft in Iraq and the forthcoming Death of the Clinic: Chronicles of War Biology, which traces how decades of conflict have reshaped medical landscapes, therapeutic practices, and microbial life across the region. A former faculty member at the American University of Beirut, Dewachi is now Associate Professor and Chair of Anthropology at Rutgers University. His research has been featured in The New York Times, The Lancet, and Al Jazeera, and he is a leading voice on the intersections of war, medicine, and the environment. Reception: 5:30 PM Lecture: 6:00 PM Directions: Hilton University of Houston, Alumni Hall Room 104 (4450 University Dr, Houston, TX 77204). Parking is available in the Hilton University of Houston underground garage. For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu or message us @ArabStudiesUH on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

June 9-16, 2025 - Arabic Summer Camp at ACC      The Dr. Amer Sabbagh ACC Arabic School is happy to announce  Arabic Summer Camp (June 2025).   We are now accepting registrations for our summer camp!   Our summer camp will take place on June 9th - June 19th Monday through Thursday, 9am - 2pm.   Summer camp consists of two one-week sessions. Kids can attend session one ($200), session two ($200) or both sessions discounted ($360).   The camp is suitable for all kids age 4 to 13 years old who want to learn Arabic and immerse in the Arabic Cultural, for both native and non-native Arabic speaker.   Sibling Discount: $10 off/per additional sibling If you have 2 kids use discount code: camp2 If you have 3 kids use discount code: camp3 If you have 4 kids use discount code: camp4   Extended Care: (due at the beginning of every week) Pre-care: 7:30 a.m. To 9:00 a.m. $40 per child/per week After care: 2:00 p.m. To 5:00 p.m. $60 per child/per week   The minimum number to hold the summer camp is 10 students each session.   *Tuition is non-refundable.   Secure your child's spot by registering early to guarantee their place in the fun and excitement!   Please click here to register!

June 1, 2025 - Arabic Poetry at ACC      Join us for an afternoon of Poetry at the Arab American Cultural and Community Center   Date: Sunday June 1, 2025 Time: 5 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural Community, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston, TX 77099   Event Flyer

May 15-24, 2025 - Gaza Habibti Photography Exhibit      This multimedia exhibition presents a powerful exploration of life in Gaza through photography, film, poetry, and live music. Featuring up to 45 photographs across three thematic series—daily life, personal stories, and human experiences—the exhibition offers an intimate look at the lives of individuals and communities.   In addition to the visual exhibition, the event includes six short films that highlight personal stories and everyday experiences. These films, accompanied by poetry readings, will be screened on select nights.   Date: May 15-24, 2025 Location: MATCH, 3400 Main St., Houston, TX 77002   Schedule of Events: OPENING NIGHT Thursday, May 15 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Free Admission     FILM SCREENING/POETRY READINGS Friday, May 16 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM $20 Entry - BUY TICKETS     RANA READS IN ARABIC Saturday, May 17 1:00 PM     LIVE MUSIC PERFORMANCE Sunday, May 18 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Free Admission     PENNIE RING Tuesday, May 20 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM     FILM SCREENING/LECTURE Thursday, May 22 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Free Admission     MUSIC PERFORMANCE & FILM SCREENING Friday, May 23 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM $20 Entry - BUY TICKETS       LIVE MUSIC PERFORMANCE Saturday, May 24 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Free Admission     Gallery/Exhibit Hours FREE ADMISSION Friday, May 16, 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM Saturday, May 17, 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM Sunday, May 18, 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM Monday, May 19, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Tuesday, May 20, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, May 21, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Thursday, May 22, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday, May 23, 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM Saturday, May 24, 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM   Through photography, film, and live performances, this exhibition provides an immersive and deeply moving experience, offering audiences a space for reflection, dialogue, and cultural connection.   Full Schedule   Event Flyer

May 18, 2025 - Za'atar Man'ouche and More      Friends of the Arab America Foundation are welcome to meet each other for Man'ouche and More!   As part of the Arab America Foundation's mission to connect and empower Arab Americans, you are welcome to connect and enjoy za'atar/man'ouche and more.   Warren and Dr. Amal David, co-founders of the Arab America Foundation, will share a brief yet thrilling insight into their dynamic "movement" and forthcoming plans for success throughout America.   Donations are always welcome to the Arab America Foundation, a non-profit (501c3) cultural and educational organization.    Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025 Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Location: Syrian American Club, 5729 Winsome Lane Houston, TX 77057   Admission is Free. For information, call 877-272-2944   Additional info at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/zaatar-manouche-and-more-tickets-1351533395769.

May 18, 2025 - "We Reject Zionism" Intergenerational Panel       The Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM), is hosting our "We Reject Zionism" panel on Sunday, May 18th @ 4PM, marking 77 years since the Nakba. The panel will feature 3 speakers – one from the Naksa generation and 2 youth that will speak to the historical and contemporary condition of our struggle, the role of youth and the diaspora and the conditions in Gaza. Please join us for this discussion to commemorate the ongoing Nakba.   Date: May 18, 2025 Time: 4 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural Community, 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston, TX 77099   Event Flyer

May 17, 2025 - Honoring Dr. Samir Tuma      Date: May 17, 2025 Time: 6 p.m. Location: Omni Hotel, 4 Riverway Dr., Houston, TX 77056

May 16, 2025 - Gaza Habibti "My Beloved City" Film Screening         Date: Friday, May 16, 2025 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: MATCH, 3400 Main St., Houston, TX 77002   Click here for more info.

May 10, 2025 - National Arab Orchestra      Join Maestro Michael Ibrahim, the National Arab Orchestra (NAO), and celebrated vocalist Usama Baalbaki for a unique and interactive musical evening – "Sing Along with the Maestro"   Date: Saturday, May 10 , 2025 Time: 8 - 9:30 pm Location: Arab American Cultural and Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road Houston, TX 77099   For more information, click here.

May 2-4, 2025 - Houston Palestine Film Festival      Date: May 2-4 , 2025 Location: Rice University, Houston,Texas   For more information, including a list of the films and dates/time, visit www.hpff.org, or click here for the lineup.   Event Flyer

April 27 - ACC Arab Heritage Month: Ma'amoul Competition & Kids' Show By Rana Reads       Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Date: April 27, 2025 Time: 1 p.m. Location: The Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd Houston, TX 77099      Event Flyer

April 25-26 - ACC Arab Heritage Month: Estevanico: Highlighting the Journey of Mustafa Azemmouri       Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   A 2-Day Educational Event.   Day 1: Friday, April 25, at 7:00 Check-in: 6:45 Reception: 7:00 PM featuring a delightful sampling of Moroccan cuisine Program: 8:00 PM. Keynote Address by Dr. Abdelkader Jamoussi and documentary screening This event is free, but RSVP is required for food and seating purposes. Limited Seating   Day 2: Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. Panel Discussion at the University of Houston's Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies (CAS): UH Student Center South (Astrodome Room) 4455 University Drive Houston, TX 77204 Free admission but RSVP required for seating planning purposes. Limited Seating. In partnership with The Arab-American Educational Foundation, the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies (CAS) at the University of Houston, and the Moroccan Society of Houston (MSH).   Estevanico, a native of Azemmour on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, was sold into slavery circa 1522 when the town was under Portuguese control. He became the first known Arab and African explorer of North America, leaving a lasting mark on history.   Join us for an insightful evening featuring a keynote address by Dr. Abdelkader Jamoussi, followed by a documentary screening.        Event Flyer

April 25, 2025 - "Gaza Is Our Home" Film Screening       Join us Friday from 6-9PM for a screening of Gaza Is Our Home, followed by a live Q&A with the director, Monear Shaer.   What began as an auto-generated slideshow on Monear's iPhone of his own trip to see his family in 2021, has since transformed into a feature-length documentary.   As the crisis in Gaza reaches unbearable levels, "Gaza Is Our Home" lays bare the raw emotions, shattered dreams, and incomprehensible strength of those trapped within its suffocating embrace.   "Gaza Is Our Home" leaves a painful scar on the hearts and minds of its audience, urging them to confront the uncomfortable truths of deception and to stand in solidarity with those who are facing unbearable oppression.   Date: Friday, April 25, 2025 Time: 6-9 PM Location: 4900 Fournace Place, Bellaire TX 77401         Event Flyer

April 19-20 - WE LOVE LIFE: Palestine Benefit Weekend      We are proud to announce WE LOVE LIFE: Palestine Benefit Weekend on April 19-20, 2025, at the Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park in Downtown Houston, TX!   The Palestinian-American Cultural Center in Houston (PACC) is the host of the largest and longest running Palestinian Festival in the US. We are excited to continue our 10-year legacy and make a change by raising money for charity and amplifying voices speaking up in support of Palestine.   As the late Mahmoud Darwish wrote, "we love life, if we find a way to it". We invite you to share your love for life with us and help our community make a change towards a Free Palestine!   Date: April 19-20, 2025 Location: Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park, 105 Sabine St., Houston, TX 77007   For more info: https://pacchouston.org/

April 18 - ACC Arab Heritage Month: Arabic Movie Night       Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   Date: April 18, 2025 Time: 8 p.m. Location: The Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd Houston, TX 77099      Event Flyer

April 17-21, 2025 - "The Teacher" Film   A Palestinian school teacher struggles to reconcile his risky commitment to political resistance with his emotional support for one of his students and the chance of a new relationship with a volunteer worker.   By Farah Nabulsi, Writer, Director and Producer   Farah Nabulsi is an Academy Award-Nominated and BAFTA-Winning Palestinian-British filmmaker. She has been writing and producing fiction films since 2016. Her first short film, Today They Took My Son, was endorsed by British director Ken Loach and screened at the United Nations.   Tickets: https://theteacher-film.com/buy-tickets   More info about the film is at https://theteacher-film.com/.

April 17, 2025 - Marcel, Rami, & Sary Khalife Legacy Tour   Palestinian American Cultural Center (PACC Houston) is proud to welcome MARCEL KHALIFE, along with Rami and Sary Khalife for their Legacy tour. One night only at the Hobby Center in Houston, TX on April 17th! Tickets: https://www.thehobbycenter.org/events/marcel-khalife/   Catch them for the opening concert of our We Love Life Palestine Benefit Weekend, April 19-20th!   Also supporting Gaza Habibti at the MATCH.   Marcel Khalife is a Lebanese musical icon with a career spanning more than 50 years. A master of the stringed oud, he has composed several anthems that have inspired generations. He will be performing with his son, piano virtuoso Rami Khalife, and his nephew, Sary Khalife on cello.       Date: April 17, 2025 Time: 7 p.m. Location: Hobby Center For The Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002      Event Flyer

April 4 - ACC Arab Heritage Month: An Evening of Arabic Music and Tarab       Arab American Cultural & Community Center (ACC)   OPENING NIGHT FOR ARAB HERITAGE MONTH   An Evening of Arabic Music and Tarab: The Timeless Songs of Umm Kulthum, Performed by the talented Nibal Malshi   ACC invites you for a mesmerizing performance by Nibal Malshi, bringing the Diva's iconic repertoire to life.   The evening begins with a reception at 7 PM featuring a light sampling of authentic Egyptian food, followed by the performance at 8 p.m.   Date: April 4, 2025 Check-in: Starts at 6:45 p.m. Reception: 7:00 p.m. Live Performance: 8:00 p.m. Location: The Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Rd Houston, TX 77099   General Admission: $15   https://tarabnightatACC.eventbrite.com     Event Flyer

April 3, 2025 - Neighbor of the Moon: Fayruz as a National Arab Icon        Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies   At 6:00 PM, Thursday, April 3, the AAEF-CAS will proudly host this year's annual Paul Kardoush Memorial Endowed Lecture at the UH Student Center Theater, titled "Neighbor of the Moon: Fayruz as a National Arab Icon."   Ethnomusicologist Dr. Loab Hammoud will deliver a lecture on the significance of Fayruz's music and give a live musical performance alongside singer Liliane Kheirbek.   Loab Hammoud is an ethnomusicologist and a Humboldt postdoctoral research fellow at the Institute of Music Research at the University of Würzburg Germany, where he researches identity formation in musical performances and the role of music in the lives of Syrian musicians, as they adapt and reconstruct their homes in Germany. Previously, he was a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Haifa. He plays and teaches the oud, as well as Arab music theory. His previous research focused on the culture of the Egyptian dawr (as composed by Zakaria Ahmed), the history of Palestinian Arab art music, as well as Arab music education and performance among Israeli Jews.   Liliane Kheirbek, a Soprano and pharmacist at Houston Methodist Hospital, was born in France and raised in Syria. She was trained in Damascus, Lyon, and Brussels, specializing in Opera and Middle Eastern music. She has performed with the Syrian National Symphony, National Arab Orchestra, and in major Houston and Detroit theatres, including the Hobby Center, Music Hall Center of the Performing Arts and the George Theater. She is passionate about bridging cultures through music. Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025 Location: 6 p.m. Location: University of Houston Student Center Theater

March 30, 2025 - A Palestine Teach-IN on Palestine Land Day   A story of Resilience & Resistance   Featuring a conversation with Nazih Nasir (St. Matthews UMC), Survivor of The Nakba, The Palestinian Catastrophe of 1948.   Presentations by John Howard (St. Paul's UMC), Justice advocate with United Methodist for Kairos Response (UMKR), volunteer in Palestine; and Alex McDonald, Founder of Texas Coalition for Human Rights, Quaker activist, and author of "How I Learned to Speak Israel".    Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025 Time: 4-6 PM Location: St. Matthews United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall, 4300 N. Shepherd Dr., Houston, TX   Event Flyer

March 28, 2025 - International Day of Al-Quds   Got Humanity?     Date: Friday, March 28, 2025 Time: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Location: Westheimer & Post Oak, Houston, Texas   Event Flyer

March 21, 2025 - Celebration of Arab Mother's Day       Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies   On the evening of Friday, March 21, we will be hosting a special iftar dinner at Stephen Power Farish Hall Room 101 in celebration of Arab Mother's Day. We will be joined by a special musical performance from Houston-based band Zaytounat.   Date: Friday, March 21, 2025 Location: Stephen Power Farish Hall Room 101, University of Houston

March 19, 2025 - EMERGENCY PROTEST - STOP THE GENOCIDE - ARMS EMBARGO NOW!     Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 Time: 5 p.m. Location: In front of the Consulate General of Israel, 24 Greenway Plaza, Houston 77046   Dates and water provided.   Event Flyer

March 12, 2025 - Egyptian American Society Ramadan Iftar        Let’s get together to break our fast, connect as a community, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan.    The Egyptian American Society of Houston (EAS) is thrilled to invite you to join us for a joyful Ramadan Iftar on!   This is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to connect, celebrate, and create beautiful memories with our amazing community. Everyone is welcome, so bring your family and friends!    Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center, 10555 Stancliff Road, Houston, TX 77099

March 8, 2025 - ACC Ramadan Iftar        The Arab American Cultural and Community Center (ACC)   Ramadan is observed by a large segment of Arabs (and non Arabs) around the Globe as a month-long of fasting from sunrise to sunset and also as a month of giving, self-reflection, and self-control. Join us at ACC for a wonderful immersion into Ramadan traditions and cultural rituals from the Arab World as part of our cultural celebration. Bring your Non-Arab Friends for a night of cross-cultural discovery experience.   Check-in starts at 5:30 p.m. Iftar Dinner will be served at Sunset at the time of breaking the fast (around 6:20 p.m.)   Enjoy traditional Arabian decor Learn about Ramadan festivities from various Arab countries Taste delicious traditional dishes and dessert from the Arab World Enjoy the Ramadan evening entertainment program: Instrumental live performance with Adam Yaqoot Mesahharati مسحراتي Kids Parade   Reminder that all tickets need to be booked online and purchased ahead of time prior to the event. Places are limited to 250 seats, make sure to register early to guarantee a spot. Ticket sales will close by Tuesday, March 4 or when we reach capacity, whichever happens first.   TICKETS: Early Bird Adults and Kids 10 years and above: $25 - Discount ends Sunday, February 28 at midnight Regular Tickets: Adults and Youth 10 years and above: $30 Children Tickets: Kids between 3 and up to 9 years old: $15. This includes dinner, babysitter, and games. Kids will be in a separate room. Sibling's discount at $10 after first child. For discount, use code: sibling No kid under 3 years old. Thank you for your cooperation   Tickets are non-refundable For purchase tickets: https://ACCIftar.eventbrite.com   For questions or inquiries, please call 832.351.3366   Date: March 8, 2025 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center - 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston   Event Flyer

March 7, 2025 - PCRF-Houston Ramadan Iftar       Benefiting Orphans in Gaza   Join us for an evening of community and compassion on Friday, March 7th as we come together to support Gaza’s Orphans.    Date: Friday, March 7, 2025 Time: 6 p.m. Location: The Bougainvilleas, 12126 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77077   Register Here

March 3, 2025 - "Gaza Genocide: Past and Present" Virtual Panel       Join the Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies March 3, Monday, 5:30 PM Central Time for our virtual panel, "Gaza Genocide: Past and Present."   RSVP HERE   Date: March 3, 2025 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location:  Virtual Event   Moderator: Dr. Abdel Razzaq Takriti Abdel Razzaq Takriti is a historian of anticolonialism, revolutions, intellectual and political currents, and state formation in the modern Arab world. He is the author of Monsoon Revolution: Republicans, Sultans, and Empires in Oman, 1965-1976 (Oxford University Press, 2013; paperback edition, 2016). The book was a finalist for the Royal Historical Society’s Gladstone Prize for best debut book in non-British history, and received honorable mention from University of Cambridge’s British-Kuwait Friendship Society Book Prize for the best scholarly work on the Middle East. It was translated to Arabic as Dhufar: Thawrat al-Riyah al-Mawsimiyya (Jadawel, 2019). Professor Takriti is also the co-author (with Karma Nabulsi) of the digital humanities project The Palestinian Revolution (Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford, 2016). He has published extensively in a range of edited volumes and major scholarly journals including The American Historical Review and Radical History Review. In 2022, his research was the subject of an episode of Al Jazeera Arabic’s Al-Muqabala.   Dr. Ahmed Abu Shaban: "Scholasticide in Gaza: The Systematic Destruction of Palestinian Higher Education and Paths to Resilience" Dr. Ahmed Abu Shaban focuses on food systems, climate resilience, and market development, particularly in communities affected by conflict. He examines how informal food networks, traditional agricultural practices, and gender-inclusive policies contribute to food security and economic stability. His research also explores sustainable farming methods, circular economies, and climate adaptation strategies, integrating data-driven analysis and policy research to strengthen food systems. He is currently working on projects that assess the resilience of Gaza’s food system, explore the role of indigenous farming knowledge in climate adaptation, and develop crisis-resilient policies for food production and distribution. He also conducts market system analyses to create economic strategies that support food sovereignty and long-term sustainability.   Dr. Eman Abdelhadi: "Trump's 'Gaza Plan': Impasse or Reality?" Eman Abdelhadi is an organizer, writer and scholar. She is assistant professor at the University of Chicago, where her research focuses on gender, migration and religion. Her academic work has appeared in Social Forces, Gender & Society, the British Journal of Sociology, and other outlets. She is also a columnist at In These Times magazine and co-author of the sci-fi novel: Everything for Everyone: An Oral History of the New York Commune, 2052-2072 (Common Notions Press, 2022). Dr. Mezna Qato: "Scholasticide and Scholasticidal Tendencies" Dr Mezna Qato joined the Margaret Anstee Centre from a previous role as Spencer Fellow at the National Academy of Education. She was previously Junior Research Fellow at King’s College, Cambridge. Dr Mezna Qato is currently completing a book on the history of education for Palestinians. Her research and teaching interests centre on histories and theories of social, economic and political transformation amongst refugee and stateless communities, the politics and practice of archives, and global micro-histories of movements and collectivities in the Middle East.   Dr. Ahmad Shokr: "Genocide in Gaza: A Regional Perspective" Ahmad Shokr is a historian of the modern Middle East. His teaching and research interesets include the history of capitalism, empire, and decolonization. He is the author of Harvests of Liberation: Cotton, Capitalism, and the End of Empire in Egypt (Stanford University Press, 2025). The book tells the story of decolonization in Egypt through the lens of the country's prized export, cotton. In doing so, it explains how the midcentury dynamics of agrarian capitalism—which were steeped in the experience of depression and war—set the stage for the construction of a postcolonial republic under Gamal Abdel Nasser, where national liberation became equated with national development.   Event Flyer

March 2, 2025 - Susan Abulhawa's the realities of the Gaza Situation Houston Peace & Justice Center   Susan Abulhawa’s very short presentation, 18 minutes at the Oxford Student Union, is an important video. We watch and discuss in detail. Please come with an open and inquisitive mind.   Susan Abulhawa is a Palestinian-American scientist, writer, and activist. Her first novel, Mornings in Jenin, was translated into 32 languages and sold over a million copies. The sales and reach of her debut novel made Abulhawa the most widely read Palestinian author of all time. Date: March 2, 2025 Time: 2-4 pm Location: Dominican Sisters of Houston Spirituality Center Meeting Room, 6501 Almeda Rd., Houston, TX 77021   Free

March 2, 2025 - HEAL Palestine Houston Ramadan Iftar: A Night for Gaza       Date: March 2, 2025 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center - 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston   For more info: Event Flyer

February 26, 2025 - Folk Singer Tom Neilson's Concert       Folk singer from Massachusetts to stop in Houston and do a concert at the Quaker meeting house in the Heights. He has songs about Palestine: https://www.soundclick.com/tomneilson/?content=songs  (check out Gaza, 18 Cows, Shireen).   Join Live Oak Friends in welcoming singer songwriter Tom Neilson to Houston to share his witty yet right on social commentary in support of building a movement toward creating a world that works for all of us. Marvelous wit, endlessly creative, the storyteller’s storyteller GPUU, Prescott, AZ If you haven’t heard Tom’s slant on social justice and current events, you are missing a treat! Amarillo UU Does a great job of reminding people of what is really important, & the power of folk music to say it. WLRN, Miami, FL Listen to his music here:https://www.soundclick.com/tomneilson/?content=songs Date: February 26, 2025 Time: 7-9 pm Location: Live Oak Friends Meeting House, 1318 W 26th St, Houston, TX 77008    For more info: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2a19c1cf-e497-4601-80b3-6294c0f5dad4

February 23, 2025 - "The Battle of Algiers" Film Screening       Palestine Youth Movement   Join us for a screening of the film “The Battle of Algiers”  (1966) directed by Gillo Pontecorvo, and a discussion afterwards!   The first film to be released in post-colonial Algeria, it portrays the national liberation movement from its inception in 1954 to the country’s independence in 1962.   Date: February 23, 2025 Time: 2:45 pm - 6 pm Location: 4900 Fournace Place, Bellaire, TX 77401     See flyer for more info.

February 22, 2025 - HEAL Palestine: Screening of Artists Reading of the Gaza Monologues       Date: February 22, 2025 Time: 1-5 pm Location: Chapelwood's Anchor House, 11110 Greenbay Street, Houston, TX 77024    See flyer for more info.

February 21, 2025 - 100 Arab American Women Who Care   The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) is holding its annual “100 Arab American Women Who Care” event at the Syrian American Club’s Al-Sham Center.   Don’t miss this unique philanthropic event with a special musical performance by an ensemble from the National Arab Orchestra (NAO).   Proceeds from the event will benefit the Syrian American Club’s Refugee Support Program.   For more information and to register for the event, please click here: https://www.centeraap.org/events/100-aawwc-houston/   Date: February 21, 2025 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Syrian American Club’s Al-Sham Center

February 20, 2025 - Malaysian Film "Maryam" Screening at UH   Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies   For those interested, CLASS Honors and the Institute for Global Engagement will be screening the 2023 Malaysian film Maryam at the Honors Commons (located on the second floor of MD Anderson Library) on Thursday, February 20 at 5:30 PM.   Date: February 20, 2025 Time: 5:30 pm Location: The Honors Commons, University of Houston   Event Flyer

February 20, 2025 - Know Your Rights with Law Enforcement   Our rights won’t defend themselves—you must know and protect them! Join CAIR-Houston for a crucial Know Your Rights event.   Featuring: Nicole Fauster – CAIR National Community & Advocacy Director John Floyd – Criminal Defense Attorney Maria Kari – Human Rights Attorney   Don’t wait until it’s too late—this discussion is essential for every community member. Bring your family and friends and empower yourself with knowledge!   Date: February 20, 2025 Time: 8 pm (After Isha Salah) Location: Maryam Islamic Center, Sugar Land, Texas   Event Flyer

February 15, 2025 - Stand Against Trump's Ethnic Cleansing Emergency Protest    Date: February 15, 2025 Time: 2 pm Location: 5718 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057

February 11, 2025 - "Arab Brazil: Ternary Orientalism and the Question of South-South Comparison"      The Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at the University of Houston is hosting the 2025 AAEF Nijad and Zeina Fares Endowed Lecture in Modern Arab Studies: "Arab Brazil: Ternary Orientalism and the Question of South-South Comparison."   Featuring Professor Wail Hassan, University of Illinois   Waïl S. Hassan is a Professor of Comparative Literature and English at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He is the author of Immigrant Narratives: Orientalism and Cultural Translation in Arab American and Arab British Literature and Arabian Nights and the Politics of Cultural Translation. His work explores Arabic and world literatures, translation, and cultural exchange. Arabs have left a permanent imprint on Brazil: from the Moorish legacy of Muslim Iberia, transmitted by Portuguese settlers; to waves of Arab immigrants since the late nineteenth century; to the prominence today of Brazilians of Arab descent. The first book of its kind, Arab Brazil: Fictions of Ternary Orientalism explores representations of Arab and Muslim immigrants in Brazilian literature and popular culture since the early twentieth century. The book shows how the Arab world works paradoxically as a site of otherness and solidarity.   Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025 Time: reception at 5:30 pm followed by a lecture at 6:00 pm. Location: Alumni Hall Room 104, University of Houston Hilton, 4450 University Dr, Houston, TX 77204.   Parking is available in the Hilton University of Houston underground garage.   For more information, please contact: cas@central.uh.edu or message @ArabStudiesUH on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.   Event flyer

February 8, 2025 - NAAMA Ben Qurrah Medical Gala      National Arab American Medical Association – Houston Chapter, (NAAMA) Ben Qurrah Medical Gala Since its inception in 1975, NAAMA has been an all-inclusive association that acts as the voice of all Arab American health care professionals. Through educational, philanthropic and service activities, NAAMA promotes the professional development and cultural identity of healthcare professionals with roots or affinity to the Arab World.   Named for the 8th Century Arab Physician renowned for his work to modernize mathematics and medicine, the AAMA recognizes prominent scientists of Arab origin who have made major contributions to science, medicine and health care.   This year we are honoring:    Dr. Mothaffar Rimawi    Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah    Dr. Lilian Dindo      Date: February 8, 2025 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Omni Hotel in Houston   For more info: https://naama.com/event-item/the-ben-qurrah-awards-gala/   Event Flyer

February 7, 2025 - Palestinian Meditations in a Time of Annihilation      Featuring Palestinian American physician, poet, and translator Fady Joudah.   It is free and open to the public. Snacks will be provided on a first come, first served basis.         Date: Friday, February 7, 2025 Time: 1-2 PM Location: Honors College Commons, University of Houston   Event Flyer

February 5, 2025 - Syria: Histories and Futures      ONLINE EVENT Wednesday February 5 at 5:30 PM Central Time on Zoom. The Arab-American Educational Foundation Center for Arab Studies at UH invites you to a virtual panel, “Syria: Histories and Futures” with Drs. Elyse Semerdijian, Faedah Totah, Reem Bailony, and moderated by Dr. Edith Szanto.   RSVP here        Date: February 5, 2025 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Get the Zoom link when you RSVP   Event Flyer

January 26, 2025 - Benefit Dinner for Gaza   Join PYM Houston for a memorable night on Sunday, January 26th at our Ta'ziz al-Sumud fundraiser dinner for Gaza at the Arab American Cultural Center.   As the Palestinian and Arab diaspora, and supporters of Palestine, we have the honor and duty to sustain and nurture the sumud (steadfastness) of our people. This event is part of the International Fundraiser to raise $1 million for the relief efforts of the Middle Eastern Children Alliance who provide shelter, food, clean water, medical aid, psychological care, and children's programming in Gaza.   We will gather as a community for cultural performances, an art auction, children activities, and more. Whether you can attend, pledge proceeds, or spread the word of the fundraiser, each and every one of us plays a role in strengthening the resilience of the Palestinian people in the face of genocide. Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025 Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: Arab American Cultural & Community Center - 10555 Stancliff Rd, Houston   Event flyer

November 29-December 1, 2024 - ICNA-MAS Regional Convention     Bazaar | Badminton & Table Tennis Tournaments | Interactive Presentations | Parallel Sessions | Youth lectures | Sisters Only Program | Matrimonial Service & Much more !!   Location: Houston Marriott Westchase, 2900 Briarpark Dr., Houston, TX 77042   For more information, or to register: https://icnatexas.org/

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