Last month was Mizrahi Heritage Month, and I was so excited to share and educate others about my culture and other vibrant cultures across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. But I won’t lie – I was nervous. With everything happening in the world, I wasn’t sure how people would respond.
To my surprise, things started off great! I was thrilled to see positive reactions from the emails and posts I shared. Woohoo!
But then – bam.
I posted about Mizrahi dance: what it is, why it’s important for educators to understand the diversity within the art form and the culture they love, and the need to make space for Jewish dancers from the MENAHT and SWANA regions. These voices add so much richness to our community.
And that’s when the backlash hit.
Some people were appalled and disgusted—their words, not mine. I still can’t wrap my head around why. As someone who is Jewish, from SWANA culture, and teaching a unique perspective no one else in the community can, it wasn’t a political statement. It was simply me saying: Hey everyone! There’s an entire group of people with beautiful customs and traditions that deserve recognition.
The post sparked a mix of reactions – some negative, some positive, and a lot of supportive comments.
I get it. Not everyone is ready to hear it, and that’s okay. A friend asked me, “Oreet, how do you keep doing this?”
My immediate answer? I do it for us. Which got me thinking more…
For me, trying is always worth it because there’s a potential to inspire others. When I share posts or host workshops, someone might think, Wow, I’d like to learn about this – and that person joins a workshop.
And then that person may inspire one more person. And so on.
Because I tried.
Making an effort and showing up – it’s worth it – even if the results don’t turn out how you’d hoped. But the act of trying can create a ripple effect that can go beyond you.
So, here’s what I know for sure: To inspire or create change – trying will never be a waste of time. That’s why I’ll keep showing up. For us, and for the potential ripple effect.
For me, trying is believing in possibility – and that’s worth every ounce of effort in my book.
Stay passionate my friends,
Oreet