Islamophobia Awareness Month events themed around ‘Muslim Stories’ taking place in November
This year, to mark Islamophobia Awareness Month, Newham Council will launch a programme of activities including film screenings, art exhibitions, talks, art workshops and performances. The programme launches in collaboration with London Indian Film Festival with a screening of Barir Naam Shahana (A House Named Shahana) on Thursday 2 November at Stratford East Picturehouse. Leesa Gazi’s debut feature is an empowering tale of a young woman battling the odds to live life as she wishes.
Barir Naam Shahana Film Screening and Q&A
Thursday 2 November, 6.30pm – 9.30pm, Stratford East Picturehouse
Based on real events, Leesa Gazi’s debut feature is an empowering tale of a young woman battling the odds to live life as she wishes. Raised by a weak and ineffectual father and stepmother, Dipa is essentially under the control of her uncle. Having committed a teenage indiscretion, she is forced to marry a widower in England. After suffering abuse and not being able to settle down, Dipa runs away and returns to Bangladesh. Seven years later, she has become a forthright and independent young woman living life on her own terms.
There will also be a Q&A with the director, Leesa Gazi.
Calligraphy Workshop
Saturday 4 November, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Stratford Library
Calligraphy is considered to be one of the most important elements of Islamic art because of its essential role in transmitting the word of God in the Quran, the Muslim holy book. Literally meaning “beautiful writing,” calligraphy is a symbol of beauty and power and can found on every possible medium from manuscripts to pottery and buildings.
In this workshop, classically trained calligrapher Soraya Syed will introduce participants to the theoretical and practical aspects of traditional Arabic calligraphy.
My Story: Stress, Religious Coping & Wellbeing
Friday 10 November, 6pm – 7.15pm, Forest Gate Library
A Danish idea from the year 2000, a human library is a place where stories are told but through people instead of books. These ‘books’ are people who share their personal experiences and stories. Local resident Rashida Zaman will talk about overcoming challenges around Islamophobia opening up a discussion around mental health and will share her journey into better wellbeing through exercise, faith, and gratitude.
Pakistani Truck Art - Craft Workshop
Thursday 16 November, 6-7.30pm, The Gate Library
Trucks in Pakistan have long been decorated with bold colours and patterns. When the nation gained independence in 1947 the art became even more important, showing images of the country and telling its stories.
From nature and politics to celebrities, truck art was a way to convey messages while making driving long distances much more fun.
In this creative art workshop led by Newham author, crafts and colour expert Momtaz Begum-Hossain, participants will design their own colourful truck art using traditional techniques.
The Story of the Daff: Drumming Workshop
Saturday 18 November, 11.30-12.30pm, Manor Park Library
The drum is the oldest percussion instrument known in history. It has been used alongside the voice in multiple traditions and cultures around the world. Within the Muslim tradition the daff has been used to accompany poetry in praise of the Prophet Muhammed ﷺ and in gatherings of celebration.
Local duo Pearls of Islam, Sakinah Lenoir and Rabiah Mali, will introduce participants to the the role and significance of the daff in Muslim traditions, and its physical, spiritual and emotional benefits.
The Story of the Daff: Drumming Workshop (16yrs+)
Tuesday 21 November, 6.30pm-7.45pm, Manor Park Library
The drum is the oldest percussion instrument known in history. It has been used alongside the voice in multiple traditions and cultures around the world. Within the Muslim tradition the daff has been used to accompany poetry in praise of the Prophet Muhammed ﷺ and in gatherings of celebration.
Local duo Pearls of Islam, Sakinah Lenoir and Rabiah Mali, will introduce participants to the the role and significance of the daff in Muslim traditions, and its physical, spiritual and emotional benefits.
Geometry Workshop Drop-in
Sunday 26 November, 2-4pm, East Ham Library
Geometric, floral and abstract motifs are major characteristics of Islamic art, these complex and repetitive designs are used as a reminder of the infinite nature of God. Not only are they found in manuscripts in the form of illuminations, but we can also see them decorating the facades of palaces and mosques (such as the arabesque).
In this workshop, Zarah Hussain will introduce participants to the principles of Islamic art and geometry that is found in architecture and manuscripts around the world.
*This event is open to all ages and booking is not required.
Muslim Variety Show
Thursday 30 November, 7-9.30pm, Old Town Hall Stratford
An evening of poetry, music, dance and comedy from diverse Muslim storytellers from London to celebrate the end of Newham’s Islamophobia Awareness Month. The night features Jumana Moon, Hamza Bouzhar, Prince Abdi, Bustami, Shareefa Energy, Hawiyya Dance Company and Safe Adam.
For further event announcements and to book onto events, please visit www.newhamiam.org
