Aline Abboud, the former moderator of the popular German news program Tagesthemen, has embarked on a new chapter of her life—not just as a mother but as an author. Her recently published book, Barfuß in Tetas Garten, delves deep within her rich multicultural heritage, capturing the essence of living as what she describes as 'half-Lebanese with East German migration background.'
Abboud's dual identity, forged through her upbringing between Berlin and Lebanon, resonates with many today. "It should really be irrelevant where one is from, but these days, it’s not, especially with how the media portrays various cultures," she stated during her recent interviews. She insists on the necessity for more empathy and comprehension concerning different backgrounds, particularly as the East and the Middle East have frequently been misrepresented.
Reflecting on her childhood, Abboud recounts the struggles she faced with bullying due to her appearance. A petite girl with glasses and short hair, she often felt out of place at school. Flashes of humiliation during gym class stuck with her well past childhood. “The teachers did nothing to help. Instead, they added to the problem, telling me I was too quiet,” she said. This relentless teasing drove her sense of insecurity and deepened her feelings of alienation, but she found solace and value outside the school environment through the support of her family, particularly her parents, who encouraged her involvement in music and sports.
Fast-forward to today, and Abboud's voice offers clarity amid the clamor of societal chaos. Today, with wars ravaging parts of the Middle East and economic disparities growing, she suggests people take time to step back from overwhelming news cycles. "I learned to turn off social media and take care of my mental health," she shared. This retreat from the constant barrage of current events has proven beneficial, allowing her to prioritize her family as well as her own well-being.
On departing Tagesthemen after three years, Abboud cited the incessant flow of negative news as exhausting. “The decision to leave was purely personal. I wanted to be home with my baby and invest more time with my family,” she explained. The transition hasn’t been without its challenges, but she expresses warmth for her hometown of Berlin, celebrating its diverse communities and the sense of belonging it affords her.
Aline Abboud presents her experiences not only as reflections on her personal life but also as observations about collective experiences. With poignant quotes, she challenges misconceptions surrounding both East Germans and Lebanese, recognizing the unique struggles and rich histories they bear. “When people think of East Germans, they often see only poverty and despair, or when they think of Lebanon, it’s as though everyone there is just struggling or fleeing as refugees,” she noted. Through her work, she endeavors to challenge these narratives.
On displaying resilience, Abboud emphasizes the strength of the Lebanese people, particularly echoed by their response to disasters. “When the Beirut port explosion struck last August, people immediately began rebuilding and helping their communities,” she expressed, citing this as the kind of communal support she wishes to see more of back home. “During crises, it’s important to focus on cooperation rather than conflict,” she asserted.
Throughout her book, Abboud celebrates cultural heredity and shared moments, from cooking Lebanese dishes to familial storytelling. She sees cuisine as the canvas where culture can be depicted, where people can forge connections. “Food brings people together. The joy of sharing meals transcends the individual backgrounds of those at the table—it nurtures togetherness,” she stated passionately.
Yet, as she acknowledges, not all experiences can be friendly and insightful. Discussing the rising biases and hostility against foreigners and refugees, she recognizes, “There are many misconceptions. Yet those who take the effort to connect with others will find they face the same struggles and merely wish for peace and prosperity.”
Overall, Aline Abboud's narrative stitches together tales of identity, struggle, resilience, and hope, extending far beyond her personal experiences. She conveys a universal message prompting individuals to embrace and celebrate cultural differences, encouraging unity amid diversity. Her poignant reflections extend from her dual roots and inspire others, highlighting the importance of empathy, connection, and communal growth.