During National Arab American Heritage Month Arab Americans Provide Resources Amidst Coronavirus Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(WASHINGTON, DC) April 1, 2020 – Each year during the month of April, the Arab America Foundation (through Arab America) and organizations across the country formally recognize the contributions of Arab Americans during National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM).
For over a century, Arab Americans have made valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of American society: in medicine, law, education, business, technology, government, and culture. Additionally, Arab Americans have shared their rich culture and traditions with their fellow Americans–while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants.
This April, we find ourselves amidst the Coronavirus Crisis and will highlight the contributions of Arab Americans, especially in the fields of public service, medicine, law enforcement, and restaurants and grocery businesses and how they are making a difference during the coronavirus crisis.
Warren David, president of Arab America said, “Arab Americans have brought with them to America their resilient values and their love to help and care for others in need, and other strengths which have become evident during this crisis. He went on to say, “During the month of April, we will focus on how the coronavirus has affected our communities and how those amongst us are heroically helping victims during this critical time in our history, additionally we will provide much needed educational resources that are helpful to educators and home-bound parents.”
The Arab America Foundation has formed a national advisory committee of over seventy Arab Americans from over twenty-five states to coordinate NAAHM, gathering proclamations, distributing educator curriculum kits, identifying Arab American organizations, medical professionals, law enforcement personnel, restaurants, and grocery suppliers who are making a difference during the current crisis.
With most school students at home, the Arab America Foundation has developed an Educator’s Curriculum Kit which highlights the history of Arab migration to America, geographic understanding of the Arab world, Arab American diversity in faith and language, interesting customs and traditions, issues affecting our community, and our many achievements in business, politics, education, and more. This kit will be available online for teachers and parents during this critical time. A smaller version, Understanding the Arab American Community is also available for presentation purposes.
Arab America is committed to promoting an accurate narrative through the website and social media platforms during the month of April. Arab America will share compelling stories of Arab Americans who are giving back to their communities during the coronavirus crisis on our blog page. Additionally, Arab America has compiled a resource guide listing resources and content regarding Arab American identity and culture.
April 21st Commemorative Event will be Streamed Online
Be a part of history as we commemorate the Arab American heritage and identity, meet notable Arab Americans, and public officials.
On Sunday, April 26th, 5-6pm ET, join us for this special online event as we commemorate National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM ) from the nation’s capital. The admission to this event is at no cost; however any donations received will be directed to the United Way COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund.
Each year during the month of April, the Arab America Foundation and organizations across the country formally recognize the contributions of Arab Americans. However, this April, we find ourselves amidst the Coronavirus crisis; therefore, during this event we will honor Arab Americans on the frontlines in the fields of public service, medicine, law enforcement, restaurants, and grocery businesses. (Please send us your recommendations of such individuals and organizations to info@arabamerica.com)
The Arab America Foundation has formed a national advisory committee of over seventy Arab Americans from over twenty-five states to coordinate NAAHM. The committee is currently identifying Arab Americans who are on the frontlines during the pandemic. In addition, they provide content, gather proclamations, and disseminate online educational and cultural materials.
Confirmed Guests to Date:
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-13)
Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-8)
At this online event you will:
- Hear from Members of Congress and Arab American opinion leaders
- Meet Arab Americans who are on the frontlines of the Coronavirus pandemic
- Listen to live traditional Arab music reflecting the Arab culture
About the Arab America Foundation
Arab America Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit, non-sectarian, educational organization that promotes: the Arab American heritage in the U.S., educates Americans about the Arab American identity and culture, and connects Arab Americans on a professional and social level. The organization is sustained by Donors and through its Cousins membership initiative. To become a Donor or a Cousin, click here.
See the proclamations received from State Governors for National Arab American Heritage Month in April 2020:
Proclamations Received to Date
See video from last year’s event:
Arab America encourages members of the community, their friends, the media, educators, and public servants to join us online in our formal recognition of April as National Arab American Heritage Month on Sunday, April 26th.
About Arab America
Arab America is a digital platform founded with the purpose of reinforcing an accurate image of the Arab American community and the Arab World. Arab America’s mission is achieved by disseminating the latest news, up-to-date events, and cultural and educational resources. With close to four million Arab Americans in the US, Arab America serves as a “bridge” bringing together the diverse communities of Arab Americans. Arab America’s main mission is to promote all activities completed by Arab America Foundation.
About Arab America Foundation
Arab America Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit, non-sectarian, educational organization that: promotes the Arab American heritage in the U.S.; educates Americans about the Arab American identity and culture; and connects Arab Americans on a professional and social level. The organization is sustained by Donors and through its Cousins membership initiative. To make a donation or become a Cousin, click here.
National Media Contact:
Joyce Behrens
jbehrens@arabamerica.com
877-272-2944
National Arab American Heritage Month Sponsors
SIGNATURE CIRCLE
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
HAMIDEH INC.
CONTRIBUTOR CIRCLE
Andoni Family Foundation
Salam International
Fred Hadeed