Home Key, New Door: The journey of Middle Eastern refugees in the U.S.A. Ebtehal alhashem

Introduction:

Middle Eastern refugees in the United States encounter a multitude of challenges as they navigate their new lives far from the familiarity of their homeland. One of the most significant hurdles is the barrier posed by language. For many, English is not their first language, which complicates their day-to-day interactions, from understanding legal documents and securing housing to accessing healthcare and educational opportunities. This language barrier can also impact their ability to secure employment, particularly jobs that match their skill levels and previous experiences.

Cultural differences further complicate their integration process. Refugees must adapt to new social norms and values, which can be vastly different from those in their countries of origin. This cultural adjustment is often a source of psychological stress and can contribute to feelings of isolation and alienation. Additionally, refugees might face discrimination and xenophobia, fueled by stereotypes and misconceptions about their background and reasons for seeking refuge.

Furthermore, Middle Eastern refugees often arrive with the trauma of war and displacement, carrying the heavy burden of their experiences, which can hinder their mental and emotional well-being. Without proper mental health support and community understanding, these traumas can persist, affecting their ability to adapt and thrive in their new environment and assimilate into a new society while preserving their cultural identities.

Inequities facing Middle Eastern refugees include:

Access to Information: Difficulties in accessing crucial information about legal rights, services, and opportunities due to language barriers and unfamiliarity with the system.

Cultural Preservation: Challenges in maintaining their cultural heritage while integrating into American society.

Social Inclusion: Experiencing social isolation and discrimination, impacts their ability to integrate fully and healthily into the community.

Economic Opportunities: Barriers to employment due to credential recognition, language proficiency, and discrimination.

The Symbolism of the Tufting Rug:

The tufting rug is designed to represent the Middle Eastern refugees in the U.S. The old key and its background of the sun and sky is a powerful storytelling tool that represents the experiences of displacement, hope, and renewal of refugees.

A. The Old Key:

Symbol of Past Lives and Homes Left Behind

The old key is the central element of the rug's design. It is a symbol of what Middle Eastern refugees have had to leave behind. Keys are symbols of security, privacy, and comfort that connect to one's home. For many refugees, possessing the key to their homes back in the Middle East is a symbolic link to their past lives. Even though these homes might no longer be accessible due to war and conflict. The keys represent a tangible connection to their memories and identities with the hope that return might one day be possible. Each key tells a story of culture, heritage, and individual life experiences. For the refugees, these keys are not just metal objects but repositories of cultural identity and personal history.

B. Sunrise and Sky Background:

Symbolism of New Beginnings and Hope for a Better Future in the U.S.

The sunrise in the background of the tufting rug symbolizes the new beginnings and start in the United States. Just as the sun rises every day, it offers a metaphor for renewal and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow. This imagery encourages both refugees and host communities to look forward to the resettlement as a new beginning full of potential.

The sky represents the vast opportunities that the U.S. For refugees, the U.S. presents a chance to rebuild their lives in safety and with dignity. It also serves as a call for society to take action to support refugees as they navigate through their new world and help them to integrate and contribute to the societal tapestry.

The tufting project of the old key represents loss and hope, past and future, which is central to the refugee experience. This rug, through its deep symbolism, invites reflection, dialogue, and understanding, bridging the gap between Middle Eastern refugees and their new American communities.

Tufting Design Steps:

1. Place the fabric on a frame.

2. Use a projector to draw the design onto the fabric.

3. Begin the tufting process.

4. After completing the tufting, apply glue to the back of the rug and allow it to dry for 24 hours.

5. Fold and glue the side edges of the fabric to the back of the rug. Then, cover the backside with coloring sheets.

6. Use a shaving machine to neaten the rug's surface.

Library's role to support Middle Eastern Refugees:

Libraries can play a pivotal role in supporting Middle Eastern refugees in the U.S. by acting as community hubs that facilitate access to information, cultural integration, and social inclusion.

Information Access:

Libraries can serve as critical access points for information that assists Middle Eastern refugees in navigating their new environments. This involves offering books, documents, and digital media in multiple languages relevant to the refugee population, such as Arabic and Farsi. Libraries can also guide legal rights, healthcare, education, and local services through tailored information sessions and easily accessible resource guides. In addition, facilitates access to computers and the internet which is essential for everything from job searches to connecting with family back home.

Cultural Programs:

Libraries can enrich the cultural life of refugees and the broader community by organizing events and exhibitions that showcase Middle Eastern arts, crafts, music, and traditions, which helps preserve the cultural identities of refugees while also educating the local population. Furthermore, conducting workshops that might range from cooking classes featuring Middle Eastern cuisine to discussions about the region's history and geopolitical dynamics, fosters a deeper community connection and understanding.

Libraries actions that lead to positive outcomes:

Libraries can take several actions to support Middle Eastern refugees in the U.S., creating positive outcomes that extend beyond individual services to impact the broader community. Libraries can organize festivals and events that celebrate Middle Eastern holidays and important dates, which not only educate but also bring diverse people together to enjoy and learn from each other's traditions. Showcasing Middle Eastern artists and authors through exhibits and readings can highlight the rich cultural heritage and contemporary contributions of these communities. Programs designed to help refugees understand local customs and societal norms, while also educating the local population about the experiences of refugees, can promote mutual respect and understanding.

Libraries can support education for Middle Eastern refugees by Offering language classes not just for English but also for civic engagement and cultural literacy can help refugees better understand their new environments. Literacy classes tailored to various age groups, including children and adults, ensure educational support that matches diverse needs. Furthermore, libraries can offer workshops that teach job-related skills, digital literacy, and other competencies that enhance refugees' abilities to succeed in the workforce.

These actions can significantly enhance the role of libraries as pivotal institutions in supporting the integration and empowerment of Middle Eastern refugees into American society. By fostering cultural exchange, and social cohesion, libraries contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive community environment.