Al-Wishah
USPCN-Chicago Presents Wishah Popular Dance Troupe in Chicago
The U.S. Palestinian Community Network (USPCN) is a Palestinian and Arab community-based organization founded in 2006 to revitalize Palestinian grass-roots organizing in the U.S.
Our guiding principles are self-determination and equality for the Palestinian people; the right of all Palestinian refugees, and their descendants, to return to their original homes and lands in historical Palestine; and ending zionist occupation and colonization of all Palestinian and Arab lands.
With chapters in eight states and DC, USPCN organizes campaigns and projects focused on Boycott Divestment Sanctions (BDS), defense against repression, political prisoners, arts and culture, political education, and solidarity with other oppressed communities. All Palestinians and Arabs can email membership@uspcn.org for more information about how you can join!
The Wishah Popular Dance Troupe was founded in 2003 by Mohamad Atta, who had also co-founded the El-Funoun Palestinian Popular Dance Troupe in the late 70s. Wishah's performances tell the story of Palestinian struggle and resilience, from the steadfastness of political prisoners to the joy of community celebrations. The 20-member group contributes to Palestinian cultural life by preserving it from marginalization, inspiring resistance, and advancing popular and folkloric dancing.
"As members of Wishah, we believe that popular dance, especially the Palestinian version, is not just dance in and of itself. We describe to audiences the role of artists and civilians in challenging Israeli occupation."