THEMES

 

IDENTITY	Somali identity is complex and changing continuously over time and across contexts. Presenters discuss colonialism and clan identity, Islam, the development of Somali Bantu as a distinct identity, and the dual identities of Somali youth and children in the Diaspora.
ARTS	Somalis have many artistic traditions, and Somali artists are developing new forms all over the world. Presenters discuss Somali poetry, art and material culture, and Somali cinema in the past and in the Diaspora.
EDUCATION	Somalis and non-Somalis work together to improve the educational experiences of Somali students. Presenters discuss working with Somali parents, the relevance of Somali oral traditions in the classroom, and instruction for students who are learning English and/or have limited formal schooling.
FAMILY	Somali families in Somalia and in those in the Diaspora take many forms. Presenters discuss polygamy, parenting in the Diaspora, kinship and the construction of clan, and the use of poetry to negotiate family relations.
LANGUAGE	Language is central to social life and education. Presenters discuss the Somali writing system, pronunciation of Somali, language diversity among Somalis, and Somali students who need English as a second language support.
GLOBAL CROSS CURRENTS	The Somali Diaspora has brought about many changes and challenges. Presenters discuss evolving Somali identities, clan in the classroom, the different experiences of Somalis around the world, and popular beliefs about Somali pirates, jihadists, and nation-state.