Community is all about building meaningful connections with past and future generations. For the Tunisian Women’s Society of Alberta, it has made it its mission to bridge the intergenerational gap among community members, combating disconnection and isolation while fostering a sense of belonging among them.
In 2023, with seed grant support from AHC, the Tunisian Women Society of Alberta organized a series of events that brought together children, youth, and seniors. These gatherings celebrated the rich culture of Tunisian culture, including folklore story readings, literature and poetry sessions, traditional Tunisian music (Malouf), language and dialect lessons, and historical narratives delivered in the Tunisian dialect.
These initiatives help preserve Tunisian culture, providing children with experiences of common folklore stories, literature, poetry, and historical narratives in the Tunisian dialect. For the community, learning the value of oral storytelling, which is a hallmark of Tunisian culture, is especially important in this digital media era.
The expected outcome of this initiative was clear: to build community connections, strengthen bonds, and preserve Tunisian heritage for future generations through the knowledge and lived experiences shared by senior community members. While the Tunisian community embraces their home in Canada, they remain rooted in their cultural history and identity.
But this is only the first step in a longer journey to preserve their heritage. The next step is providing additional exciting activities to inspire the next generation, including:
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- Traditional Tunisian Cooking Classes: These classes introduce children to the rich and diverse flavours of Tunisian cuisine. Cooking together not only teaches valuable skills but also fosters joy and tradition while building relationships and community.
- Tunisian Folk Dance Workshops: Teaching folk dances such as Debke and Hassapiko. These workshops are all about moving in rhythm with Tunisian heritage and celebrating its cultural identity.
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These efforts have not only enhanced community connection and support but also sparked interest among youth and children to learn more about their culture and heritage.
While they navigate their lives in Canada, the community remains deeply rooted in their traditions, which has brought immense joy to our seniors and all community members, helping them feel a strong sense of belonging in their new homes. This holistic approach enhances the cohesion of the community, ensuring that the beautiful tapestry of Tunisian culture continues to flourish in Canada for years to come.