September 11, 2001. Tragedy strikes the hearts of America, and they had to blame someone. How about every Middle Eastern person with whom they came in contact? (How about Indians, too.) Everything was terrorist-this and terrorist-that. The news, airline security, and political figures pointed a finger at everyone in a turban or hijab and said, “Hey look at that foreigner! He looks suspicious.” Or, “Keep an eye on her! I’m sure there’s a bomb under there somewhere!” And the next thing you know, the brown-skinned guy behind you in the line at the bank reaches in his coat for his wallet, and everyone is fearfully scanning the room for the nearest exit. My sister was in elementary school when this happened, and a few days after September 11, one of her classmates stopped showing up because an Arab family pulled their kids out of the school because of the discrimination and insults they had been facing. And it was happening everywhere.

One of the things I love about hookah bars is how they’re subtly inadvertently combating this discrimination. For example, I have a friend who is really big into the army. Great guy, loyal friend, very dependable, but he had the typical “patriotic” mindset of let’s-kick-some-raghead-ass. He wasn’t blatant about it, but at the same time, it was clear that he wasn’t exactly the kind of person who makes friends with the guy with the funny accent.

I took him to the local hookah lounge one night and introduced him to the sensation of a cool, sweet, apple-melon breeze cascading into his lungs as he sank into the cushioned seat and let the sounds of the music (which I want to say was Om Kalthom) sink him into a comfortable lull. I introduced him to that and some of my Palestinian, Persian, and Jordanian friends in a relaxing, cafe-style atmosphere that could disarm anyone.

Fortunately, my friend has a very open mind and a good head on his shoulders. He later told be about his change of heart that night, and how much he loves hookah.

The point is, it’s amazing how a place as simple as a little cafe can promote peace and create a bridge between Eastern and Western culture. At these lounges or bars, hookah is equally enjoyed by immigrants who miss the little shops they have in their home countries and by college students looking for a pleasant study environment or a place to unwind after a busy week. Put these people in the same room, and, before you know it, minds are opening, people are learning, and everyone is simply enjoying themselves no matter what language they’re speaking.

Categories: News