I’m Karim Shamsi-Basha, a Syrian-American journalist, author, and occasional stand-up comedian. I created Arab in Alabama to share stories of identity, family, culture, food, and the quirks of life in the South—through reflection, humor, and a dash of irreverence.

This newsletter is a space to explore the past that shapes us, the challenges that teach us, and the laughter that connects us. Whether through memoir-inspired essays, offbeat observations, Syrian/Southern crossings, or food-filled musings, Arab in Alabama celebrates the shared humanity beneath our differences.

Arab in Alabama tells stories where roots meet red clay, where family recipes share space with family reckonings, and where funny riffs soften the sharp edges of belonging.