As part of their significant project Women Can Do Better Tomorrow more than 100 women from Al Turi Silwan Women Center (AWC) gathered for a cultural trip to visit the village Kfar Kamar and the Circassian community, in order to get a broader understanding of the different religious traditions in Palestine.
The main objective of the visit was to explore the Circassian people's tradition, culture, language and history, which is unknown to many in this region. Very few people know about the village, and still fewer know about their distinctive identity.
Excitingly entering the village the most striking feature is the clean and beautiful environment. Old stone buildings are surrounded by remarkably clean streets. The Circassians take much pride in keeping their place in a clean shape. Also the mosque is easy to set your eyes on with its high dome placed in the center of the town. The Circassians are Sunni Muslims and religion is an important aspect of their tradition and identity, and direct most of the people's way of life.
The main destination for the women is the Circassian Heritage Center located in the middle of the village with a stunning view to Mount Tabor. A beautifully flowered courtyard with colorful and decorative blue and green exterior and interior are welcoming us as we get out off the bus.
Historically Circassians came from Caucasus in the late 19th century and settled in to especially two villages; Kfar Kumar west of the sea of Galilee and Rahania. Through film viewing, dance performances and guiding in the museum, the AWC women got an insight into the culture and customs of the community. The detailed guiding in the museum's rich collection of traditional dresses, embroidery work by women, weapons, musical instruments, kitchen and farming tools were an exciting part of the touring.
Though, the most interesting part for the Women Center were the Circassion's perspective and practice of gender issues. This community of Sunni Muslims are proud of their women's independence. Women are supposed to enjoy full equal rights. They can choose their own husband and marriage cannot be forced upon them.
The cultural trip offered a refreshing insight into a hidden Muslim culture, similar to us in some senses and distinctive in other. AWC recognizes the highly significant impact this project is achieving with its various activities and programs, funded by Theodore Springmann Foundation in Germany and targeting over 500 people in different locations within our community.