Space For Us Journal  is pleased to present: “Roshnayee / روشنایی” which in Farsi,  translates to brightness. Roshnayee will be an evening dedicated to celebrating the art of the Afghan diaspora which continues to illuminate through what feels like the heaviest of darkness. The night is being co-curated by active members of the diaspora based in Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington, D.C.: Negine Jasmine, Rona K. Akbari, and Arash Azizzada. 

We seek your help in making this an unforgettable night and are asking for you to donate any amount to make Roshnayee a reality. 

We ask community members, friends, and allies to support our fundraising efforts to raise $2000. By helping us meet our goal of raising $2000, you will ensure that we cover the costs of the event space, as well as reimbursing showcased artists supporting our artists and others dedicating their energy to create light in our community. 10% of the proceeds, and any additional donations will go to AFCECO, Afghan Education and Care Organization. 

This celebratory night aims to highlight art from the Afghan diaspora in North America. We are teaming up with Playground Coffee Shop, a warm and inviting space in Brooklyn, New York to help showcase poetry readings, a live musical performance, embroidery, zines, and installations. We are ecstatic to showcase groundbreaking artists such as Frishta Bastan, Omar Mohammad, Sulaiman Azimi, Aria Aber, and more.

The Afghan diaspora finds itself at a critical juncture. U.S. occupation of Afghanistan enters its 19th year, and our watan continues to struggle for stability and peace. Meanwhile, in the West, the Afghan diaspora community aims to find its footing and build its presence as an emerging community, while combating Islamophobia and state-sponsored violence. In that spirit, we hereby invite you to a celebration of Afghans for what they are deeply known for: our poetic ways, our rhythm, and our art. 

We are excited to bring to life a space that will spark meaningful conversations, foster relationships with one another, and expand our community of creatives in the Afghan diaspora. We hope to see you there.