Changing Narratives & Building Bridges
In the Austin, Texas area, Iraqi Americans and newcomers continue to be impacted by lingering stereotypes that tie their identity to war, terrorism, and political instability. These harmful narratives overshadow Iraq’s rich culture, deep-rooted traditions, and the humanity of its people. As a result, there is limited cross-cultural understanding between Iraqis and the broader community. This lack of connection can lead to exclusion, misunderstanding, and lost opportunities for collaboration, cultural pride, and mutual respect. Additionally, many Iraqi youth are growing up disconnected from their roots or feeling pressured to assimilate without honoring their heritage.
We envision a future in which Iraqi Americans are embraced as vital contributors to the Austin community; recognized for their culture, values, and lived experiences. In this future, cross-culture understanding flourishes. Iraqis and non-Iraqis alike engage in meaningful conversations, shared celebrations, and mutual learning. Harmful stereotypes are actively dismantled and replaced with accurate, humanizing narratives that reflect the diversity, resilience, and creativity of the Iraqi people. Iraqi culture becomes a bridge, not a barrier, fostering empathy and unity across communities.
How We’ll Get There (Our Approach):
Amplifying Authentic Iraqi Voices: We will create inclusive spaces that highlight authentic Iraqi voices and challenge misrepresentations through public storytelling, documentary projects, oral histories, and speaker events. These platforms will allow Iraqis to share their lived experiences and cultural narratives with dignity and pride.
Building Connection Through Cultural Exchange:
We will organize cultural exchange events, such as Iraqi festivals, art exhibits, music performances, and food tastings, that invite the broader community to engage with Iraq’s heritage in joyful and accessible ways. These events will spark curiosity, build relationships, and promote mutual understanding.
Educational Partnerships to Challenge Stereotypes:
We will partner with schools, universities, libraries, and media outlets to provide educational programs that center Iraqi history, literature, and contributions to global civilization. Through these collaborations, we will challenge dominant narratives and educate the public about Iraq beyond the headlines.
Empowering Iraqi Youth and Women:
We will empower Iraqi youth and women through workshops, dialogue circles, and creative projects that explore identity, belonging, and representation. These programs will help cultivate pride in cultural identity while encouraging active participation in broader society.
Shaping Public Perception Through Advocacy and Media:
We will use advocacy, storytelling, and media engagement to amplify diverse Iraqi voices and perspectives, ensuring that the community is not spoken about, but speaks for itself. By doing so, we will shift public perception and foster greater Iraqi representation in civic and cultural conversations.
Short-Term Expected Outcomes
- Increased Awareness: Local residents in Austin will gain a broader understanding of Iraqi culture, traditions, and community contributions.
- Community Engagement: More Iraqi Americans will participate in public storytelling, cultural events, and dialogue sessions, creating visible representation and connection.
- Youth and Women Involvement: Iraqi youth and women will feel more empowered and supported to express their identity, share their stories, and take leadership roles.
- New Partnerships: Schools, libraries, cultural institutions, and media outlets will begin partnering with Shako Mako to promote cross-cultural education and public programming.
- Stereotype Disruption: Public conversations around Iraq and Iraqi people will begin shifting, reducing harmful stereotypes and increasing empathy and curiosity.
Long-Term Expected Outcomes
- Narrative Shift: Mainstream narratives in Austin and beyond will begin to reflect the depth, beauty, and diversity of Iraqi identity and experience.
- Cultural Integration: Iraqi heritage will be celebrated as a valued part of the city’s cultural fabric through annual festivals, exhibits, and educational curricula.
- Social Cohesion: Stronger relationships will form between Iraqi Americans and the broader community, leading to greater mutual respect, inclusion, and civic participation.
- Sustainable Impact: A new generation of Iraqi American leaders, artists, and advocates will emerge, shaping public discourse, policies, and creative industries with pride in their heritage.
- Model for Replication: Shako Mako’s approach will serve as a replicable model for other immigrant communities seeking to change narratives and build bridges in their local areas.