Have you ever thought to yourself, “Why can’t people who immigrate to the U.S. just do it the right way?” Go ahead. You can admit it. You’re definitely not alone. Close your eyes and imagine something with me. Oh, right. You can’t read if your eyes are closed. OK, then, just pretend your eyes …
BYU student Ahmad Alnasser I grew up in a population that is predominantly Arab. Because of that, my high school and my friend group consisted of mostly Arab kids. But even having that basic commonality did not mean racism wasn’t an issue. Living in Dubai where I had people from different cultures and races all …
Racism: Perspective from a Middle Eastern College Student Read More »
Although eating disorders are an important part of the conversation about mental health, they are overlooked, blown off, stigmatized, and very often misunderstood. But they are real and relevant and they are impacting an increasing number of people, worldwide. As of 2021, it is estimated that approximately 30 million Americans live with an eating disorder. …
Before I begin, I feel I should disclaim that I have personally never struggled with depression. I have, however, had many experiences with people who have struggled and are struggling with this mental illness — I’m sure most of you have too. The experiences I have had surrounding depression are what drove me to write this article; …
People With Depression Wish They Could Tell You These 3 Things Read More »
As a Muslim living in the US, I’m asked about my religion a lot. What I have noticed about my conversations with people is that there are many misconceptions regarding Islam. I am always happy to correct these misconceptions and teach people about Islam, but some of them break my heart. It is not their …
I grew up in the studios of a classical ballet school. My love and passion for ballet began when I took my first dance class at age three and has continued to flourish since that day. The discipline, technique, hard work, dedication, and grace that ballet demands have become the foundation of who I am. …
What One Ballerina Learned About Racism in Her Art Form Read More »
Calling all lovers of Young Adult books! Here at Operation Amigos, we have compiled a list of meaningful reads that provide insights into the lives of immigrants from around the world. Not only are these novels full of adventure, romance, and creative writing, they also offer critical perspectives and differing points of view. So scroll …
10 YA Books That Explore Diverse Immigrant Experiences Read More »
Have you ever felt alone? Lost? Detached from what you know and thrown into a whole new way of life? Some of those feelings may come about as a result of the global pandemic we’re experiencing. But imagine magnifying those feelings by a thousand. By a million. By ten million. Not just lonely because you …
Six ways to help refugees right from your own couch Read More »
When I was a kid I loved the Berenstain Bears, anything by Dr. Seuss, Miss Nelson is Missing, and Imogene’s Antlers (among many others). There were great books out there for me to read, that helped me imagine, that helped me learn. But something I’ve noticed now that I have my own children is …
8 Picture Books That Help Teach Children Kindness & Compassion Read More »
Have you ever seen someone post a question or statement about a particularly controversial issue, and then cringe when you see how many comments are on the post? Do you ever find yourself drawn to reading through all those comments, even though you know the conversation is going to make you angry? Do you ever …
5 Ways to Be Civil Online, Even When You Disagree With Others Read More »