In 2021, President Joe Biden declared April as National Arab American Heritage Month, acknowledging the contributions of the more than 3.5 million Americans who identify with Middle Eastern, North African, and Arab roots.
Why We Celebrate in April
Warren David and Dr. Amal David, co-founders of the Arab America Foundation, began the initiative to designate a heritage month in 2017. April was chosen for its symbolism, as it marks the beginning of spring and embodies hope, growth, and new beginnings. That year, Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser became the first to officially recognize National Arab American Heritage Month, and many other states followed.
This Year’s Theme
The 2024 theme is “Celebrating Arab American Resilience and Diversity.” According to a U.S. Department of State press statement, this year’s heritage month comes “at a time of immense pain” as more than 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza and many Americans “are grieving lost loved ones.” For the foundation, this month’s celebrations aim to educate people on the centuries-long contributions of Arab Americans, counter harmful misconceptions, and “join all Americans in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society.”
How to Celebrate in Houston
- Head to this talk by Dr. Sinan Antoon, an acclaimed Iraqi-American poet, novelist, and scholar on Saturday, April 13.
- Enjoy this Book & Fine Art fair hosted by the Arab American Cultural & Community Center featuring a poetry recital and sweets on Sunday, April 28.
- Explore documentaries by Arab American filmmakers and films about Arab American communities.
- Check out Arab Voices, an award-winning independent talk radio station that broadcasts on 90.1 FM. in Houston and 89.5 in Galveston
