With tensions mounting between the U.S. and the Muslim world, integrating newcomers from those countries raises a whole set of sensitivities and challenges. That’s where “Hawo’s Dinner Party” comes in. This 20-30-minute DVD will serve as a tool for service providers, grassroots community groups and employers nationwide that are helping to integrate newcomers with unique needs, often against considerable obstacles. By focusing on the experiences of several Somali residents in Shelbyville — including Hawo, a former nurse who now works at a local poultry processing plant, and Mohamed, the local imam — the module puts a human face on the complex issues we face in this time of increasing globalization. By following Hawo through ESL classes, a tense meeting with the local reporter who has little knowledge of the community he’s reporting about and, most importantly, into her living room as she reflects on her flight from civil war, what it feels like to live in such a radically different culture and her vision for making this small town her permanent home, the viewer is invited to take a walk in her shoes. These scenes, as well as interviews with longer term residents, will provide the context necessary to address the growing distrust of Somalis and the role of low-wage employers in constant search of new workforces.

Contact sahar@activevoice.net for more details on how you can screen "Hawo's Dinner Party" to support dialogue and action in the lead up to the 10th Anniversary of September 11th.