Sahouri Cultural Diwan

The idea of the Sahouri Cultural Diwan was established in the summer of 2005 with the aim of reviving the concept of the old “seats” in the city of Beit Sahour, where city residents used to gather to discuss town affairs and various issues in a time when communication, entertainment, and leisure facilities were not as available as they are today. This idea received positive reception and support from many individuals, and instead of being called the Sahouri Seat or Sahouri Forum, it was named “The Sahouri Cultural Diwan”.

The Sahouri Cultural Diwan was officially established by a decision of the Beit Sahour Municipality, with the mayor serving as its honorary president. On Wednesday, August 29, 2006, a founding meeting of the Sahouri Cultural Diwan’s founding committee was held at “Dar Dakarat“, where the internal regulations were discussed, approved, and its establishment and launch were announced.

The aim of the Sahouri Cultural Diwan is to activate cultural activities in the city and build an active cultural community participation that contributes to the advancement of both society and the nation. A committee of writers, poets, and intellectuals was formed to manage and oversee the activities of the Diwan, and subsequently, an administrative board was formed to manage its affairs.

The Diwan is open to anyone interested in joining without membership fees, but with acceptance of donations from those willing to contribute. Its objectives include activating literary and cultural movements in the town and the nation, enhancing active participation in addressing local community issues, promoting community awareness, national unity, and fostering interfaith dialogue between Christians and Muslims.

The activities of the Diwan included monthly cultural seminars, lectures, and cultural evenings, addressing topics of cultural and social significance to the citizens, such as Sahouri customs, Ramadan evenings, poetry seminars, honoring poets, migration issues, national and social holidays, and discussions on various thematic books.

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