As Ramadan draws to a close, Houda, her family, and the other residents of Tucson’s Small Syria are getting ready to celebrate the joyous days of Eid al-Fitr, the three-day holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. As Houda describes Eid al-Fitr, it sounds very much like an old-fashioned Christmas—full of the anticipation and delight of children, joy of family, and a deep sense of communal connection and well-being.
The first day of Eid al-Fitr is the first time in a month that everyone can eat and drink during the day. There will be new outfits for the holiday, gifts for children, much sharing of food, and visits with friends and neighbors.
There will also be a deep longing for family. Traditionally, Eid al-Fitr is filled with visits to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and the whole extended family. Most of the Syrian refugee families here in Tucson consist only of parents and some of their children. Grandparents and grandchildren are far away.
In episode 11 of Mn Huna: Finding Refuge in Friendship, Houda shares a little bit of the joy of Eid al-Fitr with you, her new neighbors here in Tucson.
هدى/Houda: عيد مبارك
Melanie/ميلاني: Happy Eid
