Louisville is home to over 53,000 internationally-born residents, representing countries and communities from all over the globe, with more newcomers arriving each day. In this new event series, the Louisville Free Public Library, in partnership with Kentucky Refugee Ministries and Americana World Community Center, will celebrate the history and culture of our immigrant and refugee populations.
The History of Iraq
Saturday July 13, 2:30 – 4 p.m. • Bon Air Library
Presenters: Dr. Brad Bowman and Dr. Nadia Rasheed
The region of Iraq, known as Mesopotamia in the ancient world, has an exceptionally long and rich cultural history. In this presentation Dr. Brad Bowman, Associate Professor & Director of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at U of L, will survey the region’s medieval past, leading up to the modern era, and Iraqi-American activist and physician, Dr. Nadia Rasheed, will share a closer look at current events in Iraq. Registration requested.
The Music of Iraq
Saturday, August 24, 2 – 3:30 p.m. • South Central Regional Library
Presenters: Sanaan Hazma, Esmael Alawadi, and Julia Purcell
Join in and enjoy a brilliant music trio for a musical journey reflecting the diversity of Iraq with an Appalachian twist. Featured musicians will include Kurdish daf percussionist Sanaan Hamza, Iraqi oud artist Esmael Alawadi, and local multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Julia Purcell. Registration Requested.
The Cuisine of Iraq
Saturday, September 21, 2 – 3:30 p.m. • Northeast Regional Library
Presenters: TBA
In this program we’ll learn about Iraqi cooking traditions and discover how to make a staple Iraqi dish. There will be a vegetarian friendly option. Registration Requested.
Registration for this program will open August 1st.