National Arab American Heritage Month celebrates culture, educates about history
During the month of April, Arab American heritage is celebrated throughout the country. Appreciating its past and achievements, people are encouraged to get involved in their communities and go to events of celebration.
Arab American culture is still developing, and this is what a majority of the holiday celebrates. Every week, the National Arab American Heritage Month organization will feature cultural events taking place throughout the U.S. on their website, arabamerica.com, and share compelling success stories of Arab Americans.
The organization’s president, Warren David said, “For over 100 years, Arab Americans have made sufficient contributions to the diverse mosaic of America. We are pleased to report that we have reached more than 1,500 school superintendents throughout the U.S. and now more than ever we need to overcome the hate, which permeates our country at this critical time.”
Not only is this month in remembrance of their history, but it also aims to educate the next generation of Arab Americans on their heritage. Junior Kyra Goldstein does not know much about Arab American Heritage Month, but wishes the best for people celebrating it. “It’s a shame more people don’t know about this; it seems like there are lots of fun activities and events to go along with this celebration,” Goldstein said.
Some Americans may not have the knowledge of what it means to be an Arab American. This lack of knowledge is particularly significant in light of our President’s recent portrayals of Arab Americans.
Across the country, cultural institutions, school districts, public servants, and Arab Americans will engage in special events that celebrate the community’s rich heritage and numerous contributions to society.
Arabamerica.com is a national website founded with the purpose of promoting an accurate image about the Arab American community and the Arab world.
With close to four million Arab Americans in the U.S., Arab America Heritage Month’s primary goal is to become a bridge bringing together the diverse Arab American community. The website is an educational resource site for all Americans. The organization will be distributing curriculum kits to major school districts across the country ahead of National Arab American History Month (NAAHM).
Also, on Apr. 12, the organization hosted a reception to kick off NAAHM with community leaders at the New America Foundation in Washington, DC. These events started off with a fashion show displaying different traditional dresses from a variety of Arab countries, including Libya, Syria, Palestine, Yemen, Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia. Following the show, the event presented a display of Arab inspired paintings from Arab American artist, Helen Zughaib.
These celebrations of Arab American heritage can be a fun time, but that is not their main purpose. By sharing the traditions and history of Arab Americans, all Americans can gain a fuller and complete appreciation of their culture and the valuable role that Arab Americans have in American society.
Hannah Shapiro
Features Editor
