My great-grandparents Edward and Matilda (pictured here) emigrated to the US from Aleppo, Syria in 1906 and 1911 respectively. In fact, all four of my great-grandparents on my father’s side came from Aleppo. Until recently, most Americans had never heard of this city in Syria.
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But I grew up learning Aleppo’s rich heritage via recipes passed down through our family and from hearing my grandparents speaking Arabic to each other. I’m proud of my Syrian heritage.
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So seeing Aleppo destroyed, her citizens killed or driven out, often ignored by the world, has been heartbreaking for me.
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I share my family’s story in hopes that other families will include charitable organizations in year-end giving, particularly those that are aiding refugees and the people of Syria.
~shared by @meredithhazan