In today’s interconnected global economy, workplaces thrive when they integrate diverse perspectives, leverage multilingual skills, and promote cultural exchange. As companies compete internationally, initiatives like language training and cultural exchange not only enhance employees’ capabilities but also foster inclusivity, supporting broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts.
NaTakallam’s programs provide organizations with the opportunity to make a broader social impact by supporting displaced individuals. By integrating cultural and language learning into workplace development, businesses can promote inclusivity and global understanding
Language Training: Empowering a Global Workforce
In a global environment, employees are often required to navigate multilingual and multicultural landscapes. Offering language training equips employees with the tools to reach their full potential, collaborate across cultures, and boost revenues. Additionally, research shows that over 70% of employees say workplace learning opportunities increase their engagement and productivity. Multilingual employees can help companies enter new markets, strengthen relationships with international clients, and improve internal communication within global teams.
NaTakallam builds customizable language training in over nine languages – including Arabic, Armenian, English, French, Kurdish, Persian, Russian, Spanish and Ukrainian – all delivered by expert instructors with native knowledge. Our language teaching integrates real-time feedback with asynchronous learning options, allowing students to study effectively at their own pace. NaTakallam’s programs also address all skill levels as well as industry-tailored content, ensuring that every team member, from sales to technical staff, receives relevant language training.
Join organizations like Ben & Jerry’s in bringing NaTakallam’s language learning to your workforce and build more globally competent teams while supporting conflict-affected communities.
Cultural Exchange: Driving Inclusion and Innovation
NaTakallam’s Refugee Voices sessions offer teams the chance to engage in meaningful dialogue with individuals who have firsthand experience of displacement and resilience. These sessions open the door to a deeper understanding of global issues, providing insights into topics such as:
Personal stories of life on the move and starting anew
How refugees are leveraging technology for humanitarian impact
The role of art, music, food, and poetry in preserving culture across borders
Career rebuilding after displacement
The experiences of women, girls, and gender minorities in navigating displacement
Unique perspectives on social justice, human rights, and refugee activism
For companies committed to DEI and CSR goals, these cultural learning sessions offer valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth, while also contributing to social impact by directly supporting displaced communities.
Join organizations like UNHCR and Business Council for International Understanding in bringing NaTakallam’s Refugee Voices to your workforce and build more inclusive teams while supporting displaced communities.
Building Inclusive Teams through Global Perspectives
Diversity, multilingualism, and cultural exchange are no longer optional; they are essential to building a successful enterprise in today’s interconnected world. As businesses increasingly operate across borders, the need for culturally competent and globally-minded teams is critical. By fostering understanding across cultures and languages, companies can strengthen collaboration, boost innovation, and improve employee engagement.
Why Invest in Global Competence?
Language training and cultural exchange are more than just tools for individual growth – they drive company-wide success by fostering cohesive teamwork, enhancing cross-border collaboration, and opening a world of new opportunities.
NaTakallam’s language training and Refugee Voices sessions are designed to build inclusive, globally adept teams while supporting a mission-driven enterprise model. By equipping employees with the tools to communicate across cultures and languages, organizations position themselves to thrive in today’s global economy and achieve lasting success.
If you are interested in exploring new linguistic and cultural opportunities for your team, whilst also making a social impact, discover the breadth of NaTakallam’s services for enterprises. Work alongside our highly qualified instructors from displaced and conflict-affected communities. Book a session today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lenora Dsouza is an intern at NaTakallam and is currently pursuing her Masters degree in International Security at Sciences Po Paris. She is passionate about learning new cultures through travelling and language.
At NaTakallam, we connect you with talented language tutors from around the world, offering not only top-quality online language learning opportunities but also a window into rich cultural insights. In this letter, Abir, a NaTakallam Language Partner from Lebanon, shares her story of growth, motherhood, and hope, in the face of conflict. Abir’s journey is a powerful reminder of how language is a source of strength, even in the most uncertain of times.
"Bukra Ahla" (بكرا أحلى)– Tomorrow will be better. That’s what I tell my kids every time Lebanon faces another crisis.
War in Lebanon Then and Now
I vividly remember the summer of 2006, my first experience living through war in Lebanon. At the time, I was only a teenager. The war felt like a distant reality; sounds of explosions in the background. Family gatherings filled our house, and there was even a strange sense of naive joy for me as loved ones sought refuge together. I was shielded from many responsibilities, such as securing food, water, and electricity. My parents took care of everything.
Now, in 2024, I am in their shoes. As a mother of two young children, the experience of war is dramatically different. It’s no longer just about my safety – I have to protect my family, both physically and emotionally. War through a mother’s eyes is exhausting. Every day, I have to stay positive for my kids, no matter how dark things get. I spend my days answering their questions in a way that preserves their innocence, keeping their spirits up with activities, all while also being ready to leave at a moment’s notice. It’s a weight I carry constantly, trying to be their pillar of strength through the uncertainty that surrounds us.
Abir with her two children
Beauty through Hope
The situation around us is only worsening. Our neighborhood is overcrowded as displaced families desperately seek some semblance of safety. What used to be a ten-minute errand now takes over an hour. Houses are crammed full, and schools have turned into shelters.
Houses are crammed full, and schools have turned into shelters. The children are the ones who suffer the most – losing their education, their friendships, and any sense of normalcy.
Through it all, I am reminded that the beauty of Lebanon lies not just in its landscapes but in its people. Our communities pull together in times of need. To me, Lebanon is like a mother – imperfect, yes, but dearly beloved and impossible to leave behind. “Bukra Ahla” is the promise I make to Lebanon, my children, and myself, as a reminder that, despite everything, there’s a future worth fighting for.
Purpose in Every Lesson
NaTakallam is more than a job for me – it’s a second family. One of my colleagues, a Palestinian Language Partner, despite facing her own struggles in Palestine, checks in on me regularly. The connection with my students gives me a sense of purpose. It allows me to do something beyond the confines of my home and the chaos outside.
“All we have is hope,” I remind myself. “Bukra Ahla” – tomorrow will be better. I keep repeating these words, holding on to the promise of better days to come.
Now, Abir wants to share that sense of purpose. By learning Arabic with NaTakallam tutors like Abir, learners are not only gaining a new skill but also supporting a family striving for hope in difficult times. Together, we can build bridges of understanding and create a meaningful impact. Partner with Abir to learn Arabic, and help make a difference, one lesson at a time.
Abir has been teaching Arabic with NaTakallam since 2022
This post is part of the “Letters from our Language Partners” series, where NaTakallam LanguagePartners share their unique stories, cultures and experiences through the lens of language learning and connection. Want to immerse yourself in a new culture or learn a new language from native speakers? Book a session with one of NaTakallam’s expert tutors and connect with a community that brings language and culture to life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Abir is in her early thirties, a Lebanese resident who has dedicated ten years to teaching maths and science. Recently, she focused on studying psychology in addition to working as a teacher for students with special needs. Passionate about travel, shopping, and meeting new people, Abir finds joy in exploring diverse cultures and experiences .
ABOUT THE EDITOR: Lenora Dsouza is an intern at NaTakallam and is currently pursuing her Masters degree in International security at Sciences Po Paris. She is passionate about learning new cultures, travelling and binge watching tv shows.
The final days of August and the approaching end of summer give us all the more reason to savor the remaining warm days with a refreshing drink in hand! Why not take your seasonal sips a step further with NaTakallam? Explore our favorite summer drinks from the Middle East to Latin America and around the world! Each beverage tells a story of history, culture, and the unique flavors of its homeland. So even as your summer travels wind down, let’s take a delicious journey across the globe, one drink at a time!
1. Jallab
Jallab (Arabic: جلاب) is a beloved summer drink across the Levant – that’s Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. With a distinct floral aroma, this refreshing beverage is made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, a perfect combination for hot summer days. It’s often served with crushed ice, pine nuts and raisins, and also used to add flavor to ice-cream and yogurt!
Jallab is enjoyed year-round but it also a staple for rehydration during Ramadan.
Ingredients (1 serving): 2 cups cold water 1 ½ tablespoon date syrup 1 ½ tablespoon grape molasses 1 teaspoon rose water Pine nuts (optional) Golden raisins (optional) Crushed ice (optional)
Recipe: Mix the date syrup and grape molasses with rose water. Add the cold water and stir well. Pour into glasses over crushed ice. Garnish with pine nuts and raisins for a traditional touch. Serve immediately to enjoy chilled.
Summer is synonymous with seasonal fruits, including our favorite: oranges. Made with the juice of Seville oranges (also known as bitter oranges or sour oranges), Sharab al-Busfeyr literally means “the drink of Seville oranges” in Arabic, and offers a sweet and slightly tart way to cool off as we bid farewell to summer.
Around the Arab world, bitter oranges are harvested in the late winter / early spring season. To enjoy this fruit longer, locals preserve it in this syrup form to savor throughout the summer months. In this way, Sharab al-Busfeyr is a seasonal delight that connects people to their land and its fruits.
Ingredients (4 servings): 2 pounds Seville oranges Sugar (in equal weight to the orange juice)
Recipe: Firstly, juice the oranges, and then add in an equal weight amount of sugar. Stir the sugar and juice together and repeat frequently throughout the day until the sugar is fully dissolved. You can also use a blender for this process. Do not add any water to the mixture. Once the sugar is dissolved, transfer the syrup into a clean bottle. It is best kept in the fridge to increase its shelf-life to one year.
To drink, mix ¼ part syrup to ¾ parts water – serve with ice if desired!
Jus de Bissap, literally “hibiscus juice,” is actually an infusion made of dried Roselle Hibiscus flowers, which are commonly sold in markets across many African countries, from Senegal and Ghana to Egypt and Sudan (where the drink is more commonly known as “كركديه” karkadeh in Arabic). Following migration patterns, Bissap and other hibiscus drinks are also popular in many Caribbean countries.
This vibrant red drink is tangy and sweet, often enjoyed cold to combat the intense heat. Bissap is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of hospitality and is often served at celebrations and gatherings.
Ingredients (6 servings): 2 cups dried hibiscus flowers 1 ½ cups sugar (increase or reduce according to taste) 1 teaspoon orange blossom water Mint leaves (optional)
Recipe: Boil the hibiscus flowers in water for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and stir in the sugar and orange blossom water until dissolved. Allow it to cool, then refrigerate. Serve over ice, with mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.
Ayran is a traditional yogurt-based drink popular amongst Kurdish, Persian, Turkish and more communities spanning from Central Asia to Eastern Europe. This simple yet refreshing beverage is made by mixing yogurt with water and salt, resulting in a hydrating drink perfect for the hottest of summer days. Containing a healthy dose of protein and electrolytes, Ayran is enjoyed both with meals and as a stand-alone drink to quench your thirst.
Ingredients (1 serving): 1 cup plain, whole milk, strained yogurt ½ cup cold water A pinch of salt Mint leaves (optional) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Mix the yogurt with water and a pinch of salt. Shake vigorously to make it as frothy as possible. Pour into a glass over ice cubes if desired. Garnish with mint leaves, and serve chilled for a cooling and nutritious drink.
Now that your glass is (hopefully) full (with Ayran), explore the many flavors, dialects and scripts of the Kurdish language with NaTakallam’s native Language Partners!
5. Doogh
Doogh is a Persian yogurt-based drink similar to Ayran, but unlike Ayran, Doogh is fermented, often carbonated, and can also be infused with additional herbs and flavorings (e.g. mint, dried rose petals, ground black pepper). Known for its cooling properties and as a source of probiotics, it is often paired with kebabs and other rich dishes that have a naturally “heaty” profile (from the use of earthy spices in local food).
While the recipe below offers a simple way to prepare Doogh today, the traditional method of preparation takes multiple days! First, milk and yogurt are mixed in a specific ratio until smooth. This mixture is gently heated until uniformly warm, then salt is stirred in, and the mixture is placed in a closed container to ferment for 3-4 days. It is this fermentation process that gives Doogh its natural savory flavor and fizz!
Ingredients (4 servings): 2 cups plain, whole milk yogurt 2 cups sparkling water ½ cup mint leaves 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon dried rose petals (optional) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Blend the yogurt, mint leaves, salt and rose petals in a blender. Pour in club soda and mix with a wooden spoon, scraping down sides of the blender, until everything is incorporated. Serve Doogh in iced-filled glasses, garnished with mint if desired.
If you’re inspired by these Persian flavors, discover more about the colorful culture through its language. Start learning Persian with NaTakallam’s tutors and uncover the stories behind drinks like Doogh and more.
6. Papelón con Limón
Papelón con Limón is one of the oldest and most popular beverages in Venezuela! Simply made from unrefined sugar cane (also known as “piloncillo” or “panela” in Spanish), lime juice and water, Papelón con Limón is an easy and tasty way to freshen up on a summer day.
Ingredients (4 servings): 8 ounces papelón (unrefined cane sugar) ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice 4 cups hot water 4 cups cold water Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Pour hot water over the unrefined cane sugar. After it has dissolved and cooled off, add the lime juice and cold water, and stir well. Serve with ice cubes. ¡Salud!
As far back as the 18th century, Papelón con Limón was a favorite among field workers for its high nutritional value. This now-classic drink won over the love of successive generations, and is a part of the heart and soul of Venezuelan culinary culture, offering a glimpse into the history and indigenous flavors of the region. Learn more about the rhythms of Venezuelan life through learning Spanish with NaTakallam’s native-speaking tutors.
7. Agua de Limón con Chia
Long before chia seeds became a health trend, they were a staple food for the Mayans and Aztecs. Agua de Limón con Chia is lime juice with chia seeds, which swell in water to create a cooling, slightly gelatinous texture. A perfect thirst-quencher on hot summer days!
Ingredients (5 servings): 3 large limes ¼ cup chia seeds 4 cups water ½ cup sugar (increase or decrease according to taste) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Pre-soak the chia seeds in 2 cups of water until gelatinous. Squeeze the juice from the limes into a pitcher, and whisk in the soaked chia seeds, remaining water, and sugar to taste. Stir well and serve over ice cubes if desired.
Kompot is a traditional drink in Eastern Europe, made by simmering fresh or dried fruits with sugar. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, but in the summer, it’s served chilled, offering a sweet and fruity refreshment. A staple in Slavic households, Kompot is often prepared in large batches and enjoyed throughout the day.
Recipe: Combine the fruits and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar. Allow the compote to cool for a minimum of 2 hours (or maximum overnight in the fridge). As it cools, the flavors will infuse and intensify. You can then serve chilled, choosing whether or not to strain the fruits! (Strained fruits can be cooked to purées.)
The Kompot drink is related to the broader European concept of fruit “compote,” which is French for “stewed fruit.” This beverage is designed to use any surplus of summer fruit, as well as fruit that may be bruised or overripe, reflecting the creativity of local communities to ensure no food is wasted! Gain insight to native Slavic practices when you connect with NaTakallam’s bilingual Ukrainian–Russian Language Partners.
From the tangy kick of Jallab to the sweet comfort of Kompot, each sip of these summer drinks offers a delicious glimpse into diverse cultures, rich histories and communal traditions. Why not take your cultural exploration one step further? Sign up for NaTakallam’s language sessions today and connect with the communities that make these drinks so special!
Do you want to learn Arabic online but don’t know where to start? Are you curious about the differences between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Arabic dialects and want to understand their practical uses – why we think it’s essential to learn both? NaTakallam’s Integrated Curriculum (IC) offers a learning experience that combines MSA with Levantine Dialect, tailored to meet your needs.
Here are 10 reasons why NaTakallam’s Integrated Curriculum is the ideal choice for your Arabic language journey:
1. Expertly Designed by Leading Educators
Our curriculum, developed in collaboration with Professor Munther Younes, Head of Cornell University’s Arabic Department, offers an innovative and academically sound approach. This Integrated Curriculum combines solid theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring you learn Arabic in a comprehensive and effective way.
2. Authentic, Immersive Learning with Native Arabic Speakers
Learn Arabic online with native speakers trained by Professor Younes and our expert team. Our instructors provide authentic instruction deeply rooted in the nuances of both MSA and Levantine Dialect, enhancing your online learning experience.
3. A Balanced Approach to Learning Arabic
Our Integrated Curriculum combines MSA and Levantine Dialect to give you a holistic learning experience. While MSA is the language of literature, news, and formal communications, Levantine Dialect equips you for everyday conversations and interactions, making you fluent in both contexts.
4. Structured Yet Flexible Online Learning
Our 25-hour curriculum is based on a well-structured textbook, guiding your learning at your own pace. With NaTakallam, you can learn Arabic online flexibly, tailoring your schedule to fit your lifestyle while working closely with a dedicated Language Partner.
5. Solid Foundation for Beginners
New to Arabic? Our curriculum is perfect for beginners, starting with the Arabic script, numbers, and 200 essential everyday words. This solid foundation is crucial for your continued learning, whether you’re focusing on basic communication or diving deeper into Arabic literature.
6. Personalized One-on-One Sessions
Benefit from personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your specific goals. Learning Arabic online in this focused setting allows you to dive straight into the material without delays, making your experience more efficient and effective.
7. Rich Cultural Insights
Learning Arabic with NaTakallam goes beyond grammar and vocabulary. Our curriculum includes valuable cultural insights, giving you a deeper understanding of Arab traditions, customs, and societal norms, essential for connecting with Arabic-speaking communities.
8. Comprehensive Skills Development
Our curriculum covers all language skills — reading, writing, speaking, and listening — ensuring that you develop a well-rounded proficiency in Arabic, entirely online.
9. Open Doors to New Possibilities
Mastering both MSA and Levantine Dialect opens doors to a broad range of Arabic-speaking communities. MSA lets you engage with formal texts and media, while Levantine Dialect enhances your ability to connect with people in everyday settings, expanding your opportunities for personal and professional growth.
10. Support Displaced Tutors
By choosing to learn Arabic online with NaTakallam, you support tutors from displaced backgrounds, providing them with meaningful social and economic access and contributing to their well-being.
Embark on your Arabic language journey with NaTakallam’s Integrated Curriculum. Discover how mastering both MSA and Levantine Dialect can open new doors for you. Learn more and get started with a free trial.
Translation work plays a crucial role in fostering language justice. In a world where language barriers pose significant challenges, translation allows stories to transcend borders, driving progress and empowerment. Through translation, narratives shift from a national language into an international one, breaking barriers and opening doors into new cultures and worlds.
Here are nine books written and translated by women to add to your reading list. By highlighting the contributions and perspectives of female authors and translators across cultures, we challenge prevailing assumptions and biases that have led to the lack of representation and recognition for women writers in translated literature. Each of these books bring forth important female perspectives for a more international, intersectional and inclusive understanding of our world.
1. Memory in the Flesh (2000) by Ahlam Mosteghanemi, translated by Baria Ahmar Sreih
Originally published in Arabic as ذاكرة الجسد(Dhākirat al-Jasad) Translated into: English, French, Kurdish and more
Ahlam Mosteghanemi created history with Memory in the Flesh as the first female Algerian writer to write in Arabic instead of French. The choice to write in Arabic is informed by the story being told, of Algeria’s resistance to foreign oppression and its challenges in a postcolonial environment. Mosteghanemi was awarded the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature for her use of realistic male narration in her novel, challenging and broadening the scope of gender perspectives in literature, and making her work a groundbreaking contribution to contemporary Arabic fiction.
2. Tomb of Sand (2021) by Geetanjali Shree, translated by Daisy Rockwell
Originally published in Hindi as रेत समाधि (Ret Samadhi) Translated into: English, French, German and more
Geetanjali Shree is the first Hindi author to have won the International Booker Prize (2022), and Tomb of Sand also received the 2022 Warwick Prize for Women in Translation. The book follows the transformative journey of 80-year-old Ma, who grapples with depression after her husband’s death. Shree’s writing is timeless in its reflection of a woman’s inner life and her invisibility. The book evolves into Ma travelling from India to Pakistan to rediscover and reclaim her own identity.
3. Ru (2012) by Kim Thúy, translated by Sheila Fischman
Originally published in French Translated into: English, French, Italian and more
“Ru” translates to “lullaby” in Vietnamese and “small stream” in French, also referring to a “flow.” Kim Thúy’s Ru follows the flow of the unforgettable journey of a girl, turned mother, immigrating from Vietnam, and her life as a refugee. Thúy’s literary technique adopts the double meaning of its title, following the unpredictable flow of a river but eventually finding its calm in the new life that emerges as a result of the journey.
4. Your Wish Is My Command (2023) by Deena Mohamed, translated by the author herself
Originally published in Arabic as شبيك لبيك (Shubeik Lubeik) Translated into: English
Deena Mohamed is known for creating Qahera, a webcomic about a hijabi superhero. Your Wish is my Command is her first graphic novel, featuring three volumes from 2017 to 2021, and it won the Grand Prize at the 2017 Cairo Comix festival. Mohamed brings life and magic to a familiar Cairo in a fantastically imaginative tale where wishes are for sale.
Feeling inspired to read Shubeik Lubeik in its original language? Partner up with one of NaTakallam’s Arabic tutors! We offer language sessions in six Arabic dialects, including Deena Mohamed’s native Egyptian.
5. What Have You Left Behind? (2022) by Bushra Al-Maqtari, translated by Sawad Hussain
Originally published in Arabic as ما الذي تركت ورائي (Mā Aladhī Taraktu Warāʾī) Translated into: German, English and French
Bushra Al-Maqtari amplifies underheard voices in What Have You Left Behind with her collection of over 400 firsthand accounts of the Yemeni Civil War. Through these testimonies, the author presents the book as an act of witnessing, to not forget the resilience of the Yemeni people and their lives.
Interested in hearing more Yemeni voices? Visit The Yemen Listening Project, a bilingual collection of over 100 stories about culture beyond conflict and what life is really like beyond the headlines of humanitarian crisis – with translation and Arabic copyediting by NaTakallam. You can also connect directly with NaTakallam’s Yemeni Arabic Language Partners.
6. The Journey: An Egyptian Woman Student’s American Memoirs (2018) by Radwa Ashour, translated by Michelle Hartman
Originally published in Arabic as الرحلة: أيام طالبة مصرية في أمريكا (Ar-Riḥla: Ayyām Ṭāliba Miṣriyya fī Amrīkā) Translated into: English
This book is Radwa Ashour’s memoir of her intellectual journey as a graduate student in the United States. The autobiographical account looks at the differences and similarities between life in Egypt and in America, in holding on to her identity whilst navigating a new environment. In her memoir, Ashour also touches upon the people who inspired her in the US, especially members of the African American community.
7. Disoriental (2018) by Négar Djavadi, translated by Tina Kover
Originally published in French as Désorientale Translated into: English, Spanish, Italian and more
Disoriental, Négar Djavadi’s debut novel, explores its main characters’ exile to Paris from Iran. Djavadi explores the struggles of integration into French society while providing an account of Iranian history. The book travels with the main character into her burdens with history, family, identity and her country.
Did you know that the French and Persian languages share a long historical relationship? For example, “مرسی” (mersi) in Persian means “thank you,” as in the French “merci.” You can learn both languages and explore the links between them with NaTakallam’s native tutors.
8. August (2017) by Romina Paula, translated by Jennifer Croft
Originally published in Spanish as Agosto Translated into: English and French
The novel revolves around a young woman, Emilia, who returns to her hometown in Patagonia to scatter the ashes of her best friend. The book navigates devastating loss with a narrator that feels extremely open and familiar to readers. The author brilliantly makes the novel feel like a conversation between the two female best friends as Emilia attempts to understand and work through her grief.
If you wish to learn more about Patagonian and South American culture, start a conversation with NaTakallam’s Spanish Language Partners from Latin America.
9.Minor Detail (2020) by Adania Shibli, translated by Elisabeth Jaquette
Originally published in Arabic as تفصيل ثانوي (Tafṣīl Thānawī) Translated into: English, German, Italian and more
Set in Palestine, Minor Detail intertwines two narratives across different time periods. The book begins with a girl and an unforgettable incident in the summer of 1949. Many decades later, a woman in Ramallah becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth about this “minor detail” in history. Shibli’s haunting novel explores themes of memory, trauma, and the enduring effects of violence, offering a poignant meditation on personal and collective histories and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition.
Discover Palestine’s rich literary tradition with these 15 must-read books by Palestinian women. And as you delve into the stories of Palestinian women, why not further your exploration by learning the language that carries their voices? Sign up for Arabic language learning with Palestinian tutors today.
Celebrating Women in Translation Month, NaTakallam is proud to have a women-led and female-majority translation and interpretation department, offering services in 100+ languages, powered by team members from conflict-affected backgrounds.
Whether you’re looking for document translation, event interpretation, website localization, or other products, explore our award-winning services and request a quote today.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lenora Dsouza is an intern at NaTakallam and is currently pursuing her Masters degree in International Security at Sciences Po Paris. She is passionate about learning new cultures through travelling and language.
For sports fans around the world, the leading international competition is here: The 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France. From July 24 to August 11, athletes from across the globe are showcasing their talent and hard work through various sporting events and competitions.
Among them is the Refugee Olympic Team, representing extraordinary strength of character, the spirit of overcoming adversity, and hope for over 120 million forcibly displaced people. Established in 2015 by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to support potential elite athletes affected by the global refugee crisis, the 10-member team that debuted at the Rio 2016 Games has grown to 37 athletes in Paris this year.
The stories of these world class athletes offer powerful lessons for us all – including our community of language learners – showing us that training for sports and mastering a new language are more similar than you think!
Let’s take a look at lessons we can learn from Olympic athletes to accelerate our language learning…
Lessons from the Refugee Olympic Team for Language Learners
1. Motivation
Growing up in Damascus, Yusra Mardini trained in swimming with the Syrian Olympic Committee, and represented her country internationally in 2012. However, at age 16, the Syrian Civil War forced her to flee home and undertake the dangerous migrant route across the Mediterranean Sea on an overcrowded boat. The crossing made global headlines when Yusra and three other strong swimmers spent over three hours pulling their dinghy and fellow passengers to safety after the boat’s motor failed and it started taking on water.
But Mardini’s journey had only begun. Overcoming almost impossible odds, she went on to compete in the first Refugee Olympic Team at Rio 2016. Throughout this pursuit, Mardini openly expressed her personal mission, “to help others better understand the plight of refugees; that ultimately all they are seeking is safety and opportunity.” Yusra Mardini’s dedication to raising awareness about refugees drove her success, illustrating how a strong personal mission can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Although Mardini is not competing in the Paris 2024 Games, she continues to support the Refugee Olympic Team as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. You can learn more about her story in the BAFTA-nominated film The Swimmers.
Language Learning Tip: When learning a new language, find your “why.” A personal motivator will help you stay committed, even when learning feels tough, by providing a larger purpose.
2. Consistency
It is important to put in the time and effort to consistently exercise the skills needed for success. Iman Mahdavi, a refugee from Iran, is competing in wrestling at the 2024 Olympic Games. He talks about training in the gym in the outskirts of Milan, where he is now based after fleeing his home country. The gym has become his second home as he commits to a consistent and rigorous training schedule.
Language Learning Tip: Find your own “training gym,” that second home where you feel comfortable putting in regular practice, fostering consistent progress in your language learning.
3. Managing Breaks and Burnout
Iranian-born Dina Pouryounes won her first international taekwondo medal while living in an asylum center in the Netherlands in 2015. Now competing in her second Olympics in Paris 2024, Pouryounes emphasizes learning from past experiences without succumbing to pressure. In her words, “I gained experience from my first Olympic Games. I noticed my errors and worked on them. I want to be the best version of myself and be proud and happy of what I did in the competition. I am training to get the best result and to be able to appreciate all those efforts.”
Language Learning Tip: Acknowledge your progress to avoid burnout. As you are learning a new language, there will come moments when fluency – or even proficiency – seems impossible. Pouryounes shows the importance of balancing hard work and realistic expectations to avoid crushing pressure. When facing challenges, take a step back, reflect on your growth, and return to training with a positive mindset.
4. Enjoyment and Play
Training and competing for a title win is challenging, but it can also be fun. Adnan Khankan – originally from Syria and now based in Germany – is making his Olympic debut in judo with the mindset of a winner. Khankan believes in enjoying the journey as much as the competition. His positive attitude reminds us that enjoying what you do is one of the most important aspects of achieving success!
Language Learning Tip: Incorporate play into your learning. Engage in games, puzzles, and popular culture in your target language to inspire curiosity, maintain interest and enhance retention.Whether it’s Arabic jeopardy, French bingo, or singing along to your favorite Spanish songs – you can learn in ways that best suit you with the expert guidance of NaTakallam’s native-speaking Language Partners.
With NaTakallam, Go for Gold in Your Language Learning
This summer, why not take inspiration from the Olympics beyond the excitement of the games? Just as athletes train rigorously to excel in their sports, you can channel that same dedication into your language learning journey.
Connect with a NaTakallam Language Partner today. These experts bring not only language proficiency but also the resilience and unique perspectives gained from overcoming the challenges of forced displacement. Imagine having a coach who motivates you with the same discipline, reward, and enjoyment found in the sports we admire – a true champion in guiding you through your language learning adventure.
Learn a language, make a friend and support the livelihoods of forcibly displaced persons – from the comfort of your home.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sabrina Salam is an intern at NaTakallam. She is currently doing legal work supporting refugees and migrants. She loves to hike, write stories, and learn languages!
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the profound impact of mental well-being practices. We know that #mentalhealthmatters – the hashtag has over 13 million posts on Instagram! As a language learning and cultural exchange social enterprise, powered by the talents of displaced and conflict-affected individuals, we believe in the transformative power of language learning — not just as a cognitive exercise but as a vital tool for enhancing mental health. Let’s explore how learning and teaching languages can benefit both learners and educators.
The Mental Health Benefits of Language Learning
Language learning offers numerous mental health advantages. It can significantly reduce stress, alleviate social anxiety, boost self-esteem, and improve problem-solving skills. According to research, it even delays the onset of dementia, making it a powerful tool for cognitive health.
1. Enhancing Focus and Reducing Stress & Anxiety
When you’re focusing on a specific task, it relaxes the nervous system. Learning a new skill gives us a sense of purpose and growth. A team of Harvard researchers found evidence that active learning is actually a more effective stress management technique than passive relaxation.
2. Combating Depression
Practicing a new language can help distract from negative thoughts and help you feel less isolated. The practice enables you to build social connections, and provide manageable goals, all of which are crucial in combating symptoms of depression.
3. Overcoming Social Anxiety
Language learning helps individuals deal with mistakes and learn how to respond to feedback. By practicing speaking with a language partner, you develop and strengthen social skills. In time, you will become more comfortable meeting new people. Still afraid to speak your target language? Try some of these tips.
4. Boosting Self-Esteem
Achieving proficiency in a new language provides a sense of accomplishment that enhances self-worth.
5. Delaying Cognitive Decline
Language learning helps delay mental decline like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Studies suggest that it can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s by up to four years!
“A different language is a different vision of life.”
Frederico Fellini
The Unique Role of Refugee Teachers
NaTakallam’s refugee tutors play a crucial role, not only in educating others but also in benefiting themselves through the process of teaching. Here’s how language teaching aids their mental health and integration:
1. Self-Confidence and Empowerment
Teaching their native language allows refugee tutors to regain a sense of agency and self-worth. They feel empowered as they share their knowledge and cultural heritage with others.
2. Building Social Connections
By engaging with learners, refugee teachers build meaningful relationships, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of community.
3. Easier Emotional Expression & More Accurate Diagnosis
Teaching offers a structured way for refugees to process their experiences and traumas, which can be therapeutic. Afaf Doumani, a behavioral health navigator, emphasizes the importance of communication in mental health. She notes that speaking in one’s mother tongue allows for better articulation of emotions and more accurate diagnoses.
4. Cultural Exchange and Integration
Teaching their language helps refugees integrate into their new communities by bridging cultural gaps and promoting mutual understanding.
5. Gainful employment and a Dignified Income
Through NaTakallam, displaced and conflict-affected individuals are able to gain economic and social access regardless of location and status. 60% of our Language Partners report NaTakallam as their sole source of income.
“Language at its core is centered around people. Language learning by its nature is opening doors to new experiences.”
Kinda, Arabic Language Partner from Syria with NaTakallam since 2021
A Conversation with Afaf Doumani
Afaf Doumani, a Palestinian mental health professional with extensive experience working with refugees, underscores the critical role of language in mental health. With a master’s degree in social work and a background in developmental studies, Afaf has dedicated her career to supporting displaced individuals. She recalls her motivation to study mental health after witnessing the trauma of refugees following the Syrian conflict’s influx into Toledo, Ohio in the United States.
Afaf highlights several challenges refugees face, including the stigma around mental health in their native regions and the significant language barriers that prevent them from seeking help. “Mental health relies heavily on communication—more than physical health. Articulating emotions and sharing personal experiences are crucial for accurate diagnoses,” Afaf explains.
“Language is the essence of mental health. Explaining your feelings in your mother tongue is always easier—you can speak your heart. It’s about having someone who understands your culture and can help you articulate your emotions accurately.”
Afaf Doumani
Working with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Afaf focuses on MENA populations, emphasizing the need for mental health professionals who speak the native languages of their clients. She points out that the lack of such professionals often leads to mistrust in therapy interpretation sessions, where unfamiliarity with the interpreter can hinder effective communication. “Deprivation of communication undermines their wellbeing. I’m often the only Arabic-speaking person in the mental health field helping navigate and connect them to services,” she says.
Afaf’s efforts extend to facilitating support groups for women and children, addressing cultural barriers, and promoting the importance of seeking help. “It’s about breaking the barriers and reminding people that it’s okay to ask for help. We meet them where they are, socializing and building trust,” she emphasizes.
Language learning is a powerful tool for mental health, offering numerous benefits for learners and refugee teachers alike. As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s recognize and embrace the dual impact of language learning: fostering cognitive and emotional well-being for learners while enabling displaced and conflict-affected teachers to express themselves, become more integrated in their communities, maintain and reaffirm their sense of dignity and unique cultural identity and build trust.
Gain more insights and learn how to Stop Being Afraid to Speak and overcome your fear of utilizing your new language skills in our blog.
NaTakallam also offers Arabic for Professionals. This unique program created in-house by qualified Language Partners from conflict-affected backgrounds is a curriculum designed specifically for students looking to apply their Arabic language skills to their careers – from medical and humanitarian work, to journalism and business – and beyond.
Learn a language, make a friend and support the livelihoods of forcibly displaced persons – from the comfort of your home.
Poets from every culture and continent were honored earlier this spring on World Poetry Day. Now as April unfolds, Americans enjoy National Poetry Month. It is a time to celebrate poets, but it is also a time to raise your voice. For the poets of Gaza, the need to be heard has never been greater. Over the past six months, tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed. For many, poetry has provided an escape. 18-year-old poet Nadine Murtaja took up the pen to mourn her homeland: “But here where I live, and breathe, life wears its black dress constantly.” Other young poets of Gaza also cling to the balm of the written word. 22-year-old Maha Jaraba shared: “The only thing that relieves us from the troubles of war is poetry.”
Poetry as Solace in Gaza
Murtaja and Jaraba are both members of the Gaza Poets Society, a spoken word poetry group formed in 2018 by Mohammed Moussa. Moussa saw a need for poets in his homeland to gather because “life here is poetry blown into pieces and scattered all over the place.” Because poetry is not only a form of escape, it is a form of resistance. In fact, renowned Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish wrote that “every beautiful poem is an act of resistance.” Unfortunately, many poets have been targeted by occupation forces for speaking up and speaking out.
On November 20th, Mosab Abu Toha was arrested when fleeing Northern Gaza and heading south toward the Rafah crossing. Mosab Abu Toha is the founder of Gaza’s Edward Said library and the award-winning author of Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear: Poems from Gaza. While Toha was eventually released, the harrowing experience stirred feelings that could only be expressed through poetry. As Toha wrote: “A poem is not just words placed on a line. It’s a cloth. Mahmoud Darwish wanted to build his home, his exile, from all the words in the world. I weave my poems with my veins. I want to build a poem like a solid home, but hopefully not with my bones.” When Toha finally reached Egypt, he arrived with only one book in hand: a weathered copy of his poetry collection.
“I Grant You Refuge” by Palestinian poet, novelist, and teacher, Hiba Abu Nada, was written on October 10th and is among the last pieces she composed before being martyred by an Israeli airstrike on October 20th. Read the full text with translation by Huda Fakhreddine here.
Palestinians Speak, The World Listens
To the poets of Gaza: The world is listening. As of December 2023, #palestinianpoetry had more than 206,500 views on TikTok and #mahmouddarwishpoetry had 17.8 million views. At the Boston Coalition for Palestine on December 17th, demonstrators calling for a permanent ceasefire decorated white kites adorned with lines by Refaat Alareer, a Palestinian poet killed by an Israeli airstrike. His lasting plea? “If I must die/ you must live/ to tell my story”. And indeed, the story lives on. From online poetry forums to in-person events and readings, thousands of dollars have been raised by the power of the written word. In London, Out-Spoken Press organized a virtual event called “Poets for Palestine,” which ended up raising nearly £25,000 for Medical Aid for Palestinians.
In Arabic, the word for poetry is شعر (shi3r), which also means “to feel.” As the violence in Gaza continues and hearts are rubbed raw, it is no surprise that the Gaza Poets Society continues to pour forth. With nearly 27,000 followers on Instagram, the message is clear: This broken world needs poetry.
Want to experience the beauty of Arabic poetry or discover new Palestinian voices? Book a session with one of NaTakallam’s native language tutors! Choose from Modern Standard Arabic and local dialects: Levantine (spoken in and taught by language partners from Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria), Lebanese, Palestinian, Egyptian, Iraqi and Yemeni.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Emily Reid Green is a content writing intern with NaTakallam. She has spent nearly two decades in education as an English teacher. In her spare time, Emily enjoys reading, singing and studying languages.
This is the first of a series of essays by NaTakallam staff members called “Our World in Words,” where NaTakallam staff members reflect on language learning, humanitarianism, and life in general. Stay tuned for more posts in this vein throughout the year!
Balancing Opposite Worlds: Life During Global Crises
On a recent day in January, I woke up to a world made white with new-fallen snow. I checked messages on my phone while snuggling with my toddler under the warm covers, then sent him off to daycare with his dad, made myself a mug of gingerbread spice tea, and sat down at my laptop for another marketing meeting that had been taken over by the genocide in Gaza.
On my break, I posted about the snow on Facebook. I posted about Gaza. I posted about how excited I was for the new vacuum cleaner I’d gotten for Christmas and how bizarre it felt to reach that stage of life where a new vacuum cleaner was worth getting excited about. And I wondered if anyone would take my posts about Gaza seriously when I was also posting about vacuum cleaners. And what kind of person was I anyway, to be excited about a new vacuum cleaner when body bags the size of my toddler were piling up? And yet I knew that if I thought too long about those body bags, I’d crawl back into my warm bed and refuse to come out. Posting about the vacuum cleaner made me happy. And besides, if I didn’t post about anything but Gaza, how many of my Facebook friends would unfollow me and never see any of it?
After all, I myself had started avoiding social media posts about Gaza.
When the war started, I sought out the feeds that showed what was happening in Gaza, convinced that if enough people saw them the madness would stop. Then I stopped sharing them. Then I started scrolling past them as fast as possible. It was hormones, I told myself; as a mother, my brain just wasn’t structured to handle photos of dead children. Then the number of dead would tick up another digit and I’d share another headline, leave another message for the White House, draft another newsletter, and run the vacuum cleaner.
The Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines “compassion fatigue” as “apathy or indifference toward the suffering of others as the result of overexposure to tragic news stories and images and the subsequent appeals for assistance.” Coming up on Day 100 of the war on Gaza, I was suffering from a serious case of it. I didn’t want to think about millions of people starving while bombs rained down on their heads — I wanted to hug my toddler, drink tea, and watch the snow fall. How would making myself miserable help anyone? I’d already donated what I could afford and left messages with both my senators, but the bombs were still falling.
A Google search for “how to avoid compassion fatigue” turns up a host of articles, most of them directed at medical professionals, caretakers, and educators. The tips mostly seem to involve leaving work’s problems at work, practicing self-care, and relying on colleagues for support. But no matter how much suffering they encounter, a nurse can go to sleep each day knowing they have delivered pain relief or made a sick child smile. It was a lot harder to tell myself I had made a difference for Gaza. There’s not much on dealing with compassion fatigue when your job is simply marketing language services — even services delivered by refugees.
How do you avoid compassion fatigue when you’re just trying to be a decent human being while remaining sane?
Mari Andrew’s Wisdom: Poetry for Difficult Times
Comfort and counsel can come from surprising places, and a few weeks ago, a Facebook memory brought back a certain poem: “I am washing my face before bed while a country is on fire. It feels dumb to. It feels dumb not to. It has never been this way, and it has always been this way. Someone has always clinked a cocktail glass in one hemisphere as someone loses a home in another while someone falls in love in the same apartment building where someone grieves. The fact that suffering, mundanity, and beauty coincide is unbearable and remarkable.”
I first encountered these powerful words in the opening days of the war on Ukraine, and at the time I think I assumed they had been written for that occasion. After Google failed me on compassion fatigue, I tried the opening lines of this poem and found the whole text, as well as the author Mari Andrew’s own reflections on its writing. To my surprise, it wasn’t about Ukraine at all; it was written in reference to the literal wildfires that had consumed the country of Australia in January 2020. (“How is a person supposed to do ordinary things like fall in love when a quick phone scroll is both advertising discount designer socks and informing me that 12 million acres have burned?” she asks.) But the words, the author said, had carried her through the ensuing Covid pandemic and beyond for the same reasons they continue to circulate on social media today: I am not the only one feeling trapped between the horrific headlines, the vacuum cleaner, and the new-fallen snow. We are all struggling.
At the same time, I realized that I had never actually seen the entire poem. It’s usually the opening lines that get shared online because those are the lines that convey the emotion without making reference to specific circumstances. And yet Andrew isn’t just pouring out her heart with this poem; she’s also working toward solutions. “I despair with an exhale, then I refuse to despair, with an inhale. … ‘I must choose between despair and energy—I choose the latter.’ — Keats. What does it look like to state in the midst of smoke: I choose energy? For starters, I choose to finish washing my face. Then…” Andrew goes on to elaborate a list of concrete actions she is taking: eating less meat, buying new music, keeping money in her pocket to give away to someone who needs it, buying from an Aboriginal-owned business and attending a birthday party.
What’s interesting about this list is that not all of these activities had direct bearing on the wildfires. Eating less meat is, of course, an established way to combat climate change, and one can see how buying from Aboriginal-owned businesses becomes doubly important when Aboriginal communities are burning. But why does she decide to give $5 to a needy stranger? How does celebrating a friend’s birthday help? “I choose to do the things that I may think are too insignificant to matter, because sometimes protesting is an act of grieving and small choices toward energy keep me from despair,” she writes, “because grief and celebration often happen in the same night.”
I believe that all of us, whether this year’s fight be climate change, Covid, Ukraine, Congo, Gaza or whatever 2024 and 2025 have in store, can benefit from Mari Andrew’s wisdom. In that vein, I’m going to finish by sharing a few practical ideas for combating compassion fatigue that I have developed over the past few months, as we all struggle to be decent human beings while staying sane.
Combatting Compassion Fatigue: Practical Tips
Continue to do the things that bring you joy. Go to the birthday parties. Drink the tea. Hug your children, and watch the new-fallen snow. You are not helping the people of Gaza or anywhere else by adding to the world’s sorrow. You are not betraying them by feeling happy. Your emotions make no difference to Gaza one way or another, so you might as well laugh with those who laugh.
Make space to mourn with those who mourn. Reach out to those who are hurting. Take time to send a message to one of NaTakallam’s Palestinian Language Partners or the countless other Gazans who continue to cling to the Internet as their only window out of a living hell. Let them know you are thinking of them, or praying for them, or fighting for them. Make sure they remember that they are not alone.
Set up a recurring donation. Instead of thinking in terms of a single grand gesture, then feeling frustrated because the $500 you emptied from your vacation account (or didn’t) isn’t even a drop in the bucket of Gaza’s need, decide what you can afford to give on a monthly basis — even if it’s just $10 — but keep doing so. Most of us get income on a regular basis, and most charities make it easy for you to have regular donations deducted from your bank account. After you’ve made your decisions and set up the automation, don’t spend more mental energy on it. Not sure where to donate? We recommend Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, Tech for Palestine, and Jewish Voices for Peace, or you could donate to this fundraiser to support NaTakallam Language Partner Shahd, who lives in Rafah and whose family is currently sheltering several others who have lost their homes.
Make decisions in advance about your spending habits. Agonizing over whether you’re a terrible person every time you buy a latte or a new music album is just going to make you avoid giving altogether. Instead, after you’ve set up your recurring charitable donation, decide on two implementable changes to your everyday shopping habits. This can involve choosing to buy less or shop elsewhere — such as by participating in the Boycott, Divest, and Sanctions movement — or patronizing Palestinian businesses such as those listed in our 2023 Impactful Gift Ideas. Making the decision now will save you from worrying later on. In my case, seeing our local supermarket chain on the BDS list was the push my family needed to finally commit to shopping at at the organic supermarket instead. I like that by doing so we can contribute to two causes at once.
Set a reminder on your phone for one weekly action. This can be attending a protest, calling your senators, writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper, asking a major company to divest from the military, or any other action you choose — what matters is doing something. If you don’t have time to attend a protest every Saturday, you can still take two minutes to email a corporation. Once you’ve decided which actions to take, get everything set up. Put your elected representatives’ numbers into the contacts list on your phone (they should probably be there anyway). Write out a short script for yourself — your message should take no longer than 30 seconds to deliver. Bookmark a few “letter to the editor” forms on both major and local newspapers. Or save an email template asking for divestments.
More Preparation = Less Energy Needed Later
For all of these tips, you’ll probably notice a trend: the more you prepare now, the less effort you’ll need to expend later when you’re feeling less motivated. Emotions can be powerful as agents that drive us to act, but it’s our actions that matter.
And now I’d like to close with another bit of poetry: “Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.” American Rabbi Rami Shapiro is the author of this famous passage, paraphrasing the Mishnah. For me, that last line has become key when fighting off compassion fatigue. I am not going to save those children in Gaza. The fate of Gaza rests in hands far larger than mine. I am only called to do as much as I can do. But I will do that much.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mikaela Bell is a freelance editor and content writer with a background in anthropology and linguistics. An American based in France, she is also fond of reading, cooking, studying languages, fibercrafts and Irish stepdance.
ABOUT THE EDITOR: Kelsey Holmes, NaTakallam’s Marketing & Communications Manager, has a background in international development, politics, social impact, and entrepreneurship, Based in Paris, you’ll also find her exploring the outdoors, enjoying creative hobbies like pottery and painting, and discovering new talent at Paris’s music venues.
“Intifada” (إنتفاضة) is a term we often hear in slogans related to Palestinian resistance movements, the most famous and controversial being “globalize the intifada,” but what exactly is the meaning of intifada?
The word comes from the Arabic word “nafaDa” (نفض) which is a verb meaning “to shake the dust off something.” It could be used literally as “shaking [the dust] off the carpets” (نفض السجّاد) or figuratively, as “shaking off one’s laziness,” (نفض غُبار الكسل), or “being finished or rid of something” (سَئِم من المسألة، فقرّر نفض يدَيه منها; “He was fed up with the whole affair, so he decided to dust it from his hands.”) A similar sentiment is conveyed by the English expression, itself of ancient Hebrew origin, of “shaking the dust of something or someone from one’s feet.” As a related noun, “intifada” means “tremor, a shudder or a shiver.”
The First Palestinian Intifada: A Turning Point
It was in 1952 that the meaning of “intifada” took on its modern, political overtone of a “Middle East uprising,” when a series of protests shook the then-kingdom of Iraq in an attempt to force the king’s abdication in favor of a republic. It was then applied to Israeli-Palestinian conflict history when the first major Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation started, in 1987. Up until that point, there had been no conscious, organized resistance movement against the occupation. The First Palestinian Intifada was the result of Palestinian recognition — led largely by women and students — that they would have to take their future into their own hands and could no longer wait for the international community to intervene on their behalf. Activists at that time chose the word “intifada” because it implied resistance that was aggressive but nonviolent. Palestinians were shaking off the dust of the occupation.
Media Influence on Intifada Perception
In her book A Quiet Revolution: The First Palestinian Intifada and Nonviolent Resistance, historian and activist Mary Elizabeth King largely blames the media for shifting the meaning of “intifada” in the Western mind and possibly even contributing to the escalating violence, detailing how international TV crews would avoid coverage of peaceful protests but focused in on rock-throwers and then the increasingly militant actions taken in response to heavy-handed Israeli reprisals. By the time the First Intifada ended in 1993, “intifada” was no longer associated with non-violence; the ground was thus laid for the Second Intifada, which arose from the failure of the Oslo Accords and lasted from 2000 to 2005, involving indisputable terrorist activities like suicide bombings and rocket attacks. Both uprisings were characterized by a heavy loss of life on the Israeli side and roughly three times as many losses on the Palestinian side.
The Second Palestinian Intifada had a profound impact on Palestinian-Israeli relations, contributing to a shift in Israeli attitudes and more relevance for Hamas, with increased skepticism toward the peace process and the two-state agreement.
Modern Misapplications of “Intifada”
On December 5, 2023, the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania were called into a hearing of the U.S. Congress to discuss allegations of growing antisemitism on their campuses as a result of the War on Gaza. During that hearing, Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York equated chants of “intifada” with a call for genocide against Jews. While the rise of Hamas and its terrorism cannot be denied, the term “intifada” significantly predates it. By no means is intifada a call to genocide or indiscriminate violence against Jews or, for that matter, Israelis.
The discussion and subsequent uproar over the presidents’ responses underline the importance of an accurate understanding of this controversial term. Given the gravity of the current situation in Palestine, it’s time to shake off our biases and ensure that our discourse is guided by integrity in our communications, informed by a sound knowledge of history.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mikaela Bell is a freelance editor and content writer with a background in anthropology and linguistics. An American based in France, she is also fond of reading, cooking, studying languages, fibercrafts and Irish stepdance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Alice Zanini is a copywriting intern at NaTakallam. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in linguistics and Middle Eastern studies. Her research focus is on sociopolitical and sociolinguistic issues in modern Turkey and the Persian-speaking world.
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