Dr. Azab's Journey Through Invented Divides

By: Jacia Hayes

In today's society, division has become the norm. Whether it be because of how someone dresses, speaks, or identifies, it's clear to see that separation is addictive, at least in America. And the one person who realizes this more than anyone is Dr. Marian Azab, a Sociology professor at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith who makes it her mission to fight back against social injustices while also educating others on how to do the same.

Dr. Azab mentioned that, before coming to the United States, she had yet to find her passion. She was a nursing home worker whose only worries regarded which person took a shower and which had an accident, but her time in the American wild- specifically, California -- changed that for good.

"I was so shocked when I first arrived here." Dr. Azab stated. "Everything was so strange, I mean everywhere is strange to people not born into certain places' social constructs, but I never realized how rigid race was here. In Egypt separation is caused by religion, but here it's more black and white. Even the churches are segregated. This is what propelled my interest of social movements."

According to Dr. Azab, she strives to help others become more knowledgeable about not only the problems within their societies, but to also learn how to fight against them in a way that actually provides results.

Dr. Azab in her office at the University of Arkansas-Fort smith.

"Most people enjoy the nice and cutesy volunteer work, but those things don't create change," stated Azab. "And that's not to say that these people are bad; they simply just aren't aware. In sociology we don't think about who's good or bad because people act according to how they were raised. This is why I strive and encourage others to change their environments."

When asked what she does about the less accepting participants in her cause, she replied that there is nothing you can do but show love and kindness in those kinds of situations.

"Be there for people that aren't accepting. One thing that I found to be a common occurrence is that everyone is struggling in one way or another, so to help their society is to help them. And if you find someone that is open to listening, instruct them on how to make a real change."