Halloween night on South Lee Street in Alexandria is undeniably one of the most cherished occasions for its local residents. They wholeheartedly engage in this cherished tradition, joining forces to provide candy, ornate decorations, and imaginative costumes for the eager trick-or-treaters. This festive spectacle consistently attracts a significant number of visitors, prompting the Alexandria Police to temporarily close down the road to accommodate the influx of young revelers. Over more than 25 years, South Lee Street in Alexandria, VA, has transformed into a renowned Halloween hotspot. What initially commenced as an intimate block party-style festivity has since evolved into a regional custom, drawing thousands of trick-or-treaters every year. Unlike formalized events, this tradition is a grassroots endeavor, orchestrated by the community itself, showcasing an array of spine-tingling embellishments, inventive attire, and bountiful sweets. In the evening, the Alexandria Police Department cordons off the street to ensure the safety of all attendees. The event’s prominence has grown organically, fueled by word of mouth, extravagant adornments, and media accolades. Residents willingly invest in copious amounts of candy, and once it’s depleted, they switch off their lights. Despite its expansion, the majority of South Lee Street’s inhabitants warmly embrace this spontaneous celebration, considering […]
Read MoreThe World Culture Festival was born from a deep wellspring of inspiration, conceived as a grand celebration that symbolizes global unity and the incredible diversity of our world. This festivity encompasses a rich tapestry of artistic expressions, including music, dance, exquisite artistry, and the heartfelt sharing of aspirations. Thus, a magnificent platform was brought to life, providing joy, excitement, and inspiration to over five million attendees over the past two decades. Previous editions of this event have graced cities such as Berlin, New Delhi, and Bangalore. For the very first time, this festival made its way to the United States, taking place from September 29th to October 1st, with the iconic National Mall in Washington, D.C., as its host. The event featured breathtaking performances and, perhaps even more importantly, served as a heartwarming reunion of people from diverse backgrounds. This grand event is organized by the Art of Living Foundation, a global institution providing meditation and yoga instruction across the world. The foundation maintains centers in DC and Los Angeles, along with a sizable retreat center in Boone, North Carolina, among various other locations. The festival is under the guidance of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a prominent figure in […]
Read MoreWashington, D.C., the capital of the United States, experienced a series of protests and riots following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. On June 1, 2020, Black Lives Matter protesters gathered in Lafayette Square Park near the White House to protest against police brutality and the police killing of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. In a violation of civil rights and what the New York Times named “one of the defining moments of the Trump presidency,” then President Trump and his administration called upon law enforcement to use force and violence to remove protesters from the area, without warning. A short while later, President Trump walked across the street to a nearby church St Johns for a photo opp. Protesters were hurt, media personnel were attacked, and church volunteers and clergy were pushed off the patio of St. Johns and tear gassed. In response, the ACLU of DC filed to sue President Trump, Attorney General Barr, Secretary of Defense Esper, the D.C. Metropolitan Police department and numerous other federal officials on behalf of Black Lives Matter D.C. and other plaintiffs affected. And while what happened on June 1st shocked many of us, for civil rights activists it was a […]
Read MoreThousands of people, including many of Iranian origin, march in Washington to show support for nationwide protests in Iran sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in September. Amini died in morality police custody in Iran after being detained for allegedly not wearing a headscarf (hijab) “properly” in public. Morality police is responsible for enforcing Iran’s strict dress code for women, including the wearing of the headscarf in public. Demonstrators hold up signs supporting women’s rights while chanting Mahsa Amini, the name of an Iranian woman killed in custody of the country’s morality police after being arrested for wearing her hijab incorrectly. “From D.C. to Tehran, down with the regime in Iran,” they often chanted, hoisting the names of fallen Iranian protesters on wide banners. Marchers usually sing “Baraye,” an Iranian song composed of social media posts made by Iranians explaining their reasons for joining a popular movement against the regime. Siamak Aram, one of the organizers, says demonstrations are planned to be held every Saturdays.
Read MoreThe 2019 Women’s follows the 2017 Women’s March and 2018 Women’s March. In early 2017, during the aftermath of President Trump’s election, around four million people gathered in Washington DC for the first Women’s March, a protest against legislation and rhetoric that harms women. However, news reports from across North America noted that turnout for the 2019 Women’s March was lower compared to previous years, with potential reasons being poor weather, a decline in interest and controversy over protest organization in the United States. Tap on images and swipe to see in full screen
Read MoreOn a recent full moon night, an otherworldly event took place on Miami’s North Beach that seemed to transcend the mundane. The Full Moon Drum Circle, as it is known amongst locals, draws enthusiasts from across South Florida for an evening of hypnotic rhythms and communal revelry under the stars and moon. For the uninitiated, word of the monthly gathering spreads through informal channels and meetup groups rather than wide advertisement. When the full moon rises, people begin congregating on the beach, instruments in tow, representing Miami’s diverse, youthful population. As an atmosphere of harmony and creativity builds, participants lose themselves in drumming, dancing, and mystical connection beneath the moon’s cosmic glow. “It was my first time, and the energy was palpable – unlike anything I’ve experienced,” says Amanda G., 27. “Everyone locked into this collective rhythm, almost spiritual. Time seemed to stand still.” Indeed, regular attendees emphasize the community more than anything, celebrating life and the living forces that draw different walks of life together. For a few hours every full moon, the Miami Full Moon Drum Circle creates an almost tribal oasis of magic, turning North Beach into something surreal yet profoundly human. Tap on images and […]
Read MoreCopyright © 2009-2023 Daniel Rad. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright © 2009-2023 Daniel Rad. All Rights Reserved.