Photos by Yaseen Najeeb
Oak Creek, Wisconsin was one of six cities on the USPCN-sponsored benefit tour. On Sept 7, Wishah and Baladi Dabke dance troupes performed at the Oak Creek Performing Arts & Education Center.
The US Palestinian Community Network (USPCN) sponsored Midwest tour, From the Rubble We Dance made it’s way to Milwaukee this month. The event featured Wishah and Baladi Dance Troupe who came directly from Al-Bireh, Ramallah, and Beit Jala in occupied Palestine. The entertainment lineup included Milwaukee’s newest dabke group for women and girls, Banat Al-Huriyah.
Haitham Salawdeh, USPCN national board treasurer, shared a post-event reflection with Wisconsin Muslim Journal:
“On September 7, USPCN hosted a Palestinian dabke celebration in Milwaukee featuring two dance troupes from Palestine. The event exceeded all expectations, drawing tremendous support and highlighting both our community’s dedication and the broader solidarity movement’s unwavering commitment to the struggle for a free Palestine.
“From the Rubble We Dance was co-hosted by local organizations including the Muslim Women’s Coalition, Hanan Relief Group, Milwaukee4Palestine, Peace Action Wisconsin, Jewish Voice for Peace, Code Pink – Milwaukee, SJP -Milwaukee and Party for Socialism and Liberation. Numerous community businesses, vendors and individuals sponsored the event with generous contributions. Most importantly, the success of the evening was made possible by the strong community turnout—over 600 people gathered to welcome and honor the dancers from Palestine.
“Beyond affirming our narrative, rights and culture, the event was also organized to raise vital funds for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. All proceeds are being donated to the Middle East Children’s Alliance (MECA) to support their on-the-ground efforts to provide food, water, and healing for our people enduring a U.S. – Israeli manufactured famine. Through ticket sales, vendor tables, sponsorships and donations before, during and after the performance, the community raised more than $50,000—and contributions are still coming in. USPCN extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this event possible. Jazakum Allah khair.” (Haitham Salawdeh)
Ishan Atta, representative from USPCN – Milwaukee was one of the MC’s for the benefit event for Gaza at Oak Creek Performing Arts & Education Center.
Nisreen Hasan, leader of USPCN – Chicago, representing USPCN national group MC’d the event.
