Tawle Alzahr (طاولة الزهر) also known as a backgammon table in English, is the Arabic version of backgammon (a famous two-player board game consisting of 15 checkers per player and two dice). However, I refer to it as "shesh besh," which is the Turkish name for it. The game was originally created and played by those who immigrated from Turkey and Armenia. This game is significant to my family because my grandparents have tawle alzahr in their house, which they brought with them when they immigrated from Syria with my dad and his siblings. The backgammon table my grandparents have is special because it contains mosaics, which are famous in Syria. It connects them back to their home country and reminds them of the first time they were introduced to, learned, and enjoyed playing it with friends and family. My grandma was introduced to tawle alzahr by my grandpa, who taught her how to play the game when they had children, and how my grandpa used to play it with her father and grandfather. It was a game that all men, women, and children in her country enjoyed playing it. They played tawle alzahr and card games as entertainment while taking care of their children, for there was no TV. Tawle alzahr isn't only just a board game but a game that forms connections and enjoyment between people. I can recall when I was younger, seeing my grandpa and family members play tawle alzahr while sipping on Turkish coffee (qahwa) and eating mixed nuts (both staples of Syrian culture).

– J-AS

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant