Voices

Sharing stories and experiences that highlight diverse narratives across community groups.

Community Voices

Category: News

Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican Holiday. So Why Does the United States Celebrate it More?

From USA Today (by Jordan Mendoza and Gabriela Miranda) – Cinco De Mayo is often celebrated as a day to party and drink margaritas in the USA, but the real significance of Cinco De Mayo is rooted in a history of resisting invasion in Mexico. Read on to learn more.

A Renewed Cultural Focus in White Center Bolsters Sense of Khmer Community

From The Seattle Times (by Melissa Hellmann) – White Center had its first Sunday Swap Meet, a once- a month outdoor market featuring vendors, businesses, and artists from the Southeast Asian community.

My Bolo, My Garden, My Grandmother

From The Mash Up Americans (by Alexis Diao) – The bolo is a Filipino machete most often used as a gardening tool. For Alexis Diao it is a lifeline between present and past, and a bridge between places.

Traditions New and Old Come to Life for Ramadan Celebrations Amid COVID

From YES! Magazine (by Nargis Rahman) – Bangladeshi American writer Nargis Rahman reflects on how yet another Ramadan in lockdown has brought new opportunities to connect with old traditions. But its still not the same without family.

Al Empire: Exceptional Arabs From Around the World and Their Journey To the Top

From Al Empire – This podcast highlights the stories of inspiring leaders, creators and thinkers from the Arab diaspora around the world, including the familiar voice of Jad Abumrad from WNYC’s popular podcast, Radiolab.

“Bless Me Ultima” Is Still A Must Read

From Daily Chela (by Brianna Montoya) – The 1972 classic by Rudolfo Anaya continues to endure as a beloved story of entertainment loaded with deep philosophical questions for the Chicano community.

Culture Department Leads Nettle Harvesting Trips

From Puyallup Tribal News (by Lis Pemberton)- We are commonly told to steer clear of Nettles but did you know they have many nutritional and healing properties that have been used by Indigenous communities for generations? In this poetic piece, learn about how Nettles are harvested and how they can be used. Be sure to check out the linked video for recipe ideas and an in-depth look at how Nettles are held sacred.

For Two Women Small Business Owners, Ramadan is a Moment to Remember Home

From South Seattle Emerald (by Bunthay Cheam) – two women with small food businesses at Spice Bridge in Tukwila reflect on Ramadan memories and how food is central to bringing people together.

QIKIQTAĠRUK Almost An Island

From Emergency Magazine (by Lauren E. Oaks with Kaisa Reese Ahluniq Kotch) – On earth day, we want to share this piece from Emergence Magazine which documents the stories of three generations of an Inupiat family in Alaska. They reflect on the way their communities have been transformed forever by climate change and Covid-19, and author Lauren E. Oaks considers “the meeting place” between Indigenous knowledge and Western science.

Our Blended Family And the “Togetherness” of Ramadan

From NBC’s Asian America (by SK Ali) – Author SK Ali reflects on how Ramadan is a powerful opportunity to connect and come together.