Every year during the month of April, the US celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM).
The month-long event celebrates the history, heritage, and culture of Arab Americans, as well as honouring their contributions to society. This is when members of Congress, governors, state legislatures, mayors, municipalities and school districts across the US celebrate and learn more about Arab American culture, heritage and their contributions to American society.
Arab America and the Arab America Foundation launched the National Arab American Heritage Month initiative in 2017, with just a handful of states recognising the initiative. Each year, the grass-roots network of over 250 Arab American volunteers in 28 states gathers hundreds of proclamations from their states, counties, municipalities, and local school districts.
EVENTS TO PROMOTE ARAB HERITAGE & CULTURE
“This month, we join together to celebrate the immeasurable contributions of Arab Americans to our Nation and recommit ourselves to the timeless work of making sure that all people have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream, ” stated US President Joe Biden, in his proclamation recognising NAAHM for the month of April 2023. “Today, the achievements of Arab Americans are reflected in the arts and sciences; in businesses and faith communities; in classrooms and hospitals; and in police stations, firehouses, and every branch of the military. Arab Americans are also proudly serving throughout my Administration, bringing a diversity of expertise that helps make this country stronger, more prosperous, and more just.”
This year there are several states where Arab Americans are seeking permanent legislation designating April as National Arab American Heritage Month. The states of Illinois, Oregon, Virginia, and Indiana (Senate) have passed permanent legislation designating the month of April as NAAHM. However, the states of New Jersey, Michigan, Ohio, New York, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Indiana are still pursuing legislation.
HONOURING REMARKABLE CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY ARAB AMERICANS
“This is the time of year when we take pride in the contributions Arab Americans are making in education, medicine, law, business, technology, government, military service and culture,” stated Warren David, President of Arab America and co-founder of the Arab America Foundation. “President Biden’s proclamation designating April 2023 as National Arab American Heritage Month is a historic moment and a tribute to the contributions of Arab Americans, who have been an integral part of this nation for almost 150 years.”
On Wednesday26 April 2023, at Amazon Headquarters, the Arab America Foundation will host a commemorative event entitled, National Arab American Heritage Month Commemoration 2023. The event aims to honour the remarkable contributions made by Arab Americans and will be attended by public officials, community leaders, and other distinguished guests. In addition to celebrating the rich and diverse Arab heritage and culture, attendees will enjoy cultural performances such as music, dance, art, and authentic Arab cuisine. Click here for more information.
RELATED ARTICLES
How to support Muslim employees or coworkers who are fasting and observing Ramadan. Click here to read more.
Sign up for our newsletter
