Interview with Professor Samir Bitar

University of Montana Arabic language and culture professor Samir Bitar discusses his journey from Palestine to Montana, UM’s Arabic Studies Program, cultural differences between the Arab and Western worlds, Americans’ misconceptions about Arabs and Islam, the Arab world’s misconceptions about the West, and the role of education in a six-part interview with reporter Kyle Schmauch.  Nate Chapman directed the interview with cameramen Brandon Allen and Conor Ballantyne.

Part 1: Bitar’s Story and the Creation of the Arabic Studies Program

Bitar was born in Palestine and came to Montana for college at the age of 16.  He traveled abroad and worked in different parts of the U.S. before coming to Missoula to start his own business and volunteer in local schools.  He started teaching Arabic at the University of Montana in 1999.

Part 2: Goals and Successes of the Arabic Program

Bitar says the Arabic Studies Program has grown consistently in recent years, and that the new Arabic minor is one of the most employable minors offered at UM.

Part 3: Cultural Differences Between the Arab and Western Worlds

Bitar says he sees language as “culture in context.” He explains how even simple things like names and the use of personal space vary widely among cultures.

Part 4: Americans’ Misconceptions About the Arab World and Islam

Bitar talks about his own experiences as a Muslim in Montana over the past 39 years, and the role media has in perpetuating stereotypes about Muslims.

Part 5: Arab Misconceptions About the West and Educational Differences

Bitar says many people in the Arab world wrongly see Western culture as completely sex-driven and devoid of religion.  He explains that education is key to overcoming misconceptions in both parts of the world.

Part 6: UM’s Role in Bridging Cultural Differences

Bitar describes how UM’s Arabic Studies Program is working to bridge cultural differences between the U.S. and the Arab world.

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