A vibrant gathering at Oak Lawn Community High School celebrated the rich cultural diversity of its student body while raising funds for Sudanese families seeking refuge in the United States. Many of these families have fled the ongoing civil war in Sudan and are now facing significant challenges in their new environment. The event, which took place in January 2024, provided an opportunity for students from Egyptian, Sudanese, and Syrian backgrounds to showcase their heritage while fostering a sense of community and support.
During the event, senior Sarah Elamin highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the plight of Sudanese refugees. “We need to raise awareness for the people of Sudan because not a lot of people know what’s going on,” she stated. Elamin, along with fellow students, performed a traditional Sudanese dance, emphasizing the urgency of their fundraising efforts. She shared her personal connection to the issue, noting that her family has been unable to return to Sudan due to the destruction of airports.
Another poignant moment came from Rawan Sharfi, who dedicated her speech to her “beloved country.” She recounted her family’s harrowing experience of displacement, including the loss of loved ones and their home. “My uncle was killed by the RSF (Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group), yet my story is only one of the countless Sudanese around the world,” Sharfi remarked. Her words resonated deeply, as she rallied the audience to help rebuild lives affected by the conflict.
The cultural showcase featured performances that spanned multiple traditions. Senior Rory Ali performed “Salma ya Salamah,” a beloved Egyptian song by singer Dalida, alongside fellow students and family members. “It means a whole lot to me to be singing her song. She is me, I am her,” Ali expressed, emphasizing the personal significance of the song. The performance included traditional instruments, such as the riqq, played by Mohammed Abuelhawa, who spent months researching and practicing to perfect his craft.
The event also included a reenactment of an Egyptian baby shower, known as El-Sabeu, which celebrates the birth of a child. Participants showcased this cultural ritual, which involves scattering salt and carrying the baby around, allowing students to highlight the depth and richness of their heritage. “I’m excited to show we’re more than pyramids,” Ali remarked, reflecting on the desire to present a fuller picture of Egyptian culture.
Marwa Elmasry, a World Languages/Arabic teacher at Oak Lawn Community High School and coordinator of the event, added a personal touch by wearing traditional clothing from Nubia. Having lived in both Egypt and Sudan, she expressed her joy in celebrating the cultures of both nations. “It’s a connection between Sudan and Egypt,” Elmasry noted, pointing out the shared heritage.
The event was well-attended, with numerous students from Arabic 3 Honors and Arabic 4 Honors classes participating. Elmasry informed the audience that the school hosts six students from Syria, four students from Egypt, and eleven from Sudan, along with several families from Palestine. Activities included a video presentation about the three countries, poetry readings, a Kahoot game on dialects, henna and face painting, a Sudanese wedding reenactment, and ethnic food tastings.
Students expressed their enthusiasm for the event. “You get to see people who are from that place,” said Jayda Shouman, whose family hails from Palestine. “It’s always important to speak up for people who can’t.” Another student, Ghofran Ouarerhni, whose family is from Morocco, added, “We’re spreading the word that all cultures matter.”
Parents were equally proud of their children’s efforts, recognizing the event as an opportunity to foster understanding among diverse cultures. Abeer Ahmad, a parent from Palestine, emphasized, “This way we learn about every culture. Sometimes there’s misunderstandings. This way we show people the best of us.”
The gathering at Oak Lawn Community High School not only celebrated the various heritages within its student body but also served as a crucial platform to support Sudanese refugees in their time of need. By raising awareness and funds, these students are playing a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by families displaced by war.
