Loading ...What Is Arab American Culture Like Today?
In the late 19th century, the first wave of Arabic immigrants began moving to America, with most of them deciding to live in, or just outside of, large cities like Detroit. They remain in these large cities to the present day.
As the Arab American community continues to grow, the culture surrounding it remains largely undiscussed in the mainstream.
Currently, there are around 3.5 million Arab Americans living in the United States, and this number will likely reach 4 million within the next couple of years. America has a gigantic overall population of 328 million, but the Arab American community still makes up a significant part of its people.
Here are some of the most interesting and key features of modern Arab American culture that you will find interesting to read about.
Gaming
Gaming is a big part of Arab American culture. Some of their favorites include League of Legends and PUBG. Online casino is also popular. This is hardly surprising, as online casinos (and physical casinos) are solidified entertainment outlets in American culture. When you think of casinos, some of the images that come to mind are Hollywood movies and big-name celebrities playing games of poker.
The popularity of online casinos in Arab American culture is perhaps slightly surprising, though, because in the Arab World gambling is often prohibited or frowned upon. However, there are still physical casinos in the Arab world, primarily in Egypt, but they’re mainly for tourists and other visitors.
Religion
Religion means a lot to the Arabic people and is arguably their definitive characteristic. Naturally, religion has crossed over into Arab American culture, too. The religions vary, with Christianity and Islam being two of the most popular ones.
Succeeding in education
Education is highly valued by Arab Americans. For them, education is a vital pathway to an excellent future career.
Also, your educational achievements help to represent your family – so by studying hard and achieving good grades, you are doing a great service to your family name.
Not caring about your education or not doing your best in your chosen subjects is greatly looked down upon by Arab American families.
Food and hospitality
Arabic food has an excellent reputation around the world for tasting good and making people happy – and rightfully so, as Arab Americans put a high amount of effort into their meals.
Arab cuisine is heavily influenced by culture and usually features a lot of meats – like lamb and chicken – as well as herbs and spices.
At family and friend gatherings, food is often the focal point – as groups will sit around together and enjoy the meals that have been prepared for them.
Family
Lastly, there’s family. Arab Americans value their family above everything and are willing to make a lot of sacrifices for each other. There is a particular focus on respecting and caring for your elders – and when parents become elderly, it is generally regarded that the son will look after them and ensure they continue to live a good life.
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