Mixture of energy, solemnity during this year's Arab American Heritage Month

Arab News

02-04-2025

Chicago: This year's Arab American Heritage Month is being celebrated in a mixed atmosphere of energetic pride and solemn concern for events overseas, under the theme 'Honoring the past, inspiring the future.'
Arab Americans used to celebrate at different times in different states, but the community came together in 2017 to consolidate the heritage month in April.
Leaders from around the country said this year's celebrations have a solemn tone because of turmoil in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen.
Warren David, president of the Arab America Foundation, told Arab News: 'We'll honor legendary songstress Umm Kulthum on the 50th anniversary of her passing. We're also partnering with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library for a special workshop on understanding Arabic music.'
He said an 'exceptional' performance is being planned at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage in Washington D.C., entitled 'Sounds of the Arab world' and featuring musician Nibal Malshi.
However, David acknowledged that Israeli violence 'has dampened the celebration as many Arab Americans are distraught with the current situation — tragic loss of life, no ceasefire, no plan for a Palestinian state. We hope to see a peaceful solution.'
He added that while Arab American Heritage Month is officially recognized by 20 US states, AAF is working to secure recognition from the remaining 30.
According to the Arab American Institute, there are about 3.5 million Arabs in the US, in all 50 states.
Major populations are located in 11 states: California, Michigan, New York, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas, Ohio, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
To mark Arab American Heritage Month, AAI is hosting a celebration on April 3 at the Theater Alliance in Washington D.C., featuring playwright Kareem Fahmy and comedian Rola Z.
Michigan's Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released a video and statement on X saying: 'Happy Arab American Heritage Month, Michigan. This month, we celebrate Michigan's strong, proud Arab-American community.
'They have, and continue to make, immeasurable contributions to our state's economy, culture and our future.
'Michigan is a stronger, better state because of the diverse groups of people who call it home. This month and all year long, let's celebrate our friends and neighbors in this community.'
Several New York legislators, all Democrats, took to X to applaud Arab American Heritage Month.
New York City Assembly member Harvey Epstein said: 'Let's celebrate all that Arab-American culture brings to New York.'
New York State Sen. Pete Harckham said: 'We acknowledge the amazing contributions of Arab Americans both nationally and here in New York.'
The month, he added, is 'a time to celebrate the rich culture, contributions and history of Arab Americans who've enriched our communities and nation.
'From culture and science to activism and business, Arab Americans continue to thrive and inspire.'
New York State Sen. Andrew Gounardes said: 'This Arab American Heritage Month, I celebrate Arab-American achievements and culture across the arts and sciences, in business and industry, in education and medicine, and in every branch of the military. These contributions enrich our nation and move us toward a brighter future.'
In Illinois, Hassan Nijem, president of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, told Arab News that celebrations are being planned with several elected officials including Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, who had her website and services brochures translated into Arabic.
The annual Arab American Festival and Miss Arab USA pageant, both in Arizona, are recognized as the largest Arab heritage celebrations nationwide, and attract communities from across the country.