Two-way Street

Syracuse celebrates many cultures because of its diverse community. Biboti Ouikahilo, a native from West Africa, opened a multicultural drum, dance, and fitness studio called Wacheva — which means unity. His goal is to unite the community through his art.

The city welcomes roughly 500 refugees a year. Martha Hso is a Burmese refugee who was relocated to Syracuse 10 years ago. She attends weekly classes that teach her English, history, and the American way of life.

While Biboti teaches his culture and Martha learns American traditions, it’s obvious that Syracuse welcomes an exchange of cultural ideas.