Loading ...Arab American National Museum to Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month in April
Free walk-in admission, publication of new informational booklet, diverse programs set for April
SOURCE: PRESS & GUIDE
Since the first Arab immigrants arrived in the United States of America in the 1800s, they and their descendants have left an indelible mark on American society.
The significant contributions of individual Arab Americans in nearly every field of study and endeavor, as well as the cultural impact of the Arab American community among the many immigrant groups comprising our country, are numerous and impactful. Just as diverse is the community itself, comprised of people with roots in 22 nations and varying cultural and faith traditions.
The only institution in the world that documents and presents these stories, the Arab American National Museum (AANM), invites everyone to celebrate this rich history and the vibrant contemporary Arab American community in southeast Michigan and across the nation during Arab American Heritage Month – April 2019.
“Because the Arab American community is so diverse and is located in communities across the country, Arab American Heritage Month is a unique opportunity for Arab Americans to celebrate their history and culture together, and share it with the general public,” says Dr. Matthew Jaber Stiffler, AANM’s research and content manager.
AANM presents a series of events and offers to mark the month, including free admission for all walk-in visitors (offer does not include ticketed events). The Museum is also proud to announce the April publication of new lesson plans for elementary, middle and high school educators, as well as a fascinating new booklet designed for a general audience. Arab Americans: History, Culture & Contributions, written by Randa Kayyali with AANM, is available for $9.95 in hard copy at The AANM Store (during regular Museum hours or online at http://bit.ly/AANMbookletinStore), and free to view and download online at http://bit.ly/AANMbookletonline. The booklet and lesson plans were made possible in part with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, an independent federal agency that provides library grants, museum grants, policy development and research.
“There are very few introductory-level texts about Arab Americans and partnering with Randa Kayyali – a recognized author and researcher – to create this one fills an important niche for our visitors, educators and anyone interested in the history and culture of Arab Americans,” says Stiffler.
“The booklet offers an overview of Arab American immigration history, including the recent influx of refugees, and touches on the themes of religion, cultural traditions and the impact of media stereotyping,” says Stiffler. “It includes graphs, maps and historical images of the Arab American community, many that have never before been published.”
Though not yet recognized as an official national heritage month by presidential proclamation, many states, cities and organizations across the country have designated April as Arab American Heritage Month. Community leaders and Detroit expats Warren and Amal David, founders of the respected digital platform ArabAmerica.com, along with a grassroots cohort from 28 states, have mounted a prominent national campaign to raise the profile of Arab American Heritage Month and encourage more official observances. Click HERE to view Arab America’s list of resources.
Source: ACCESS