An expert on the Middle East is coming to town next month to help dispel the "fear factor" and offer cultural sensitivity tools for those sponsoring Syrian families.
Peter Twele, a Surrey-based linguist, author and speaker, spent the past three decades learning about and living alongside Middle Easterners. He lived in Jordan for 11 years, but also spent time in Yemen and Syria doing research.
He describes his workshop presentation style as "storytelling," aimed at "fostering a better understanding" of that part of the world.
"One of my main goals is always to dispel the fear factor," he said.
He'll offer some history and political notes, as well as insight he's gained travelling in the Arab world.
"What stands out the most is how lonely they might feel. What is most important is family and community connections. I'll be saying that over and over."
They are leaving a world in which they felt very connected because of the unprecedented refugee crisis the world is now witnessing. They miss those connections when they get here. The loneliness creeps in once those ties are broken, and they come to a new country.
"Even though their needs will be taken care of, it's that connection that is lost."
So being friendly to them, will go a long way, Twele said.
At his sessions, he encourages lively audience interaction and engagement. He enjoys answering questions on topics ranging from language and culture, history and politics, and understanding Islam.
"The recent history helps us understand better what these refugees have had to go through and helps us empathize with them a bit more," said Twele.
He offered a similar workshop in Salmon Arm, presenting ideas from the Middle East perspective.
For instance, culturally there is an imperative to offer a high degree of hospitality, and graciousness, to their guests.
"It's true. I have arrived unannounced, and had my hosts offer their children's food for me to eat. They were compelled to show me this hospitality. It's very important culturally."
Of course he didn't eat much in that instance, he recalled.
But overall the whole experience of sponsoring refugees stands to be a positive one.
"This has been a good thing for Canada. It's is also an opportunity."
He's excited by the range of possibilities.
"I really think it is drawing communities together," Twele said. "I'm excited for Chilliwack."
Check out his Facebook page 'Rubbing Shoulders in Yemen,' and he plans to set up another one specifically to help those sponsoring Syrian refugees.
The Cultural Sensitivity workshop, is Saturday, March 12, at the Vineyard Community Centre on Wellington Avenue, starting at 9 a.m, in three sessions with breaks in between. Syrian refugee sponsors, volunteers, neighbours, refugees themselves and the public are welcome. See more at www.petertwele.com, or about the event email chilliwackcares@shaw.ca