Southwest Asian and North African Heritage Month

March 2025

During this year's Southwest Asian & North African Heritage Month, we invite our community to share personal narratives that connect us to our roots, identities and each other. Storytelling has always been a central aspect of SWANA culture—whether represented through literature, music, food, or art, our stories carry the richness of our cultures and traditions. Yet, in mainstream media, our community’s stories are often misrepresented or ignored. It is time we change that. It is time to reclaim our voices and celebrate the diversity of our experiences within the SWANA community.

“Home,” a word that holds multiple meanings. What represents home to you? Is it your country of origin, the home you have created for yourself while living in the diaspora, your favorite cultural dish, or is it the people who make you feel a sense of belonging? "Stories of Our Home" is an opportunity to reflect on what home means to each of us and the role it plays in our lives. By sharing these stories, we aim to create a space where SWANA community members feel seen, heard, and valued. Through this month’s activities, we hope to foster a sense of belonging, connection and empowerment as we celebrate the SWANA heritage together.

See the full calendar of  events at stamp.umd.edu/SWANAHM