National Arab American Heritage Month

P R O C L A M A T I O N

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NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

WHEREAS, for over a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of American society in medicine, law, business, technology, government, and culture; and

WHEREAS, since migrating to America, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of being model citizens and public servants; bringing their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education and diversity in faith and creed that have added strength to our great democracy; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans have also enriched our society by sharing in the entrepreneurial American spirit that makes our nation free and prosperous; and

WHEREAS, the history of Arab Americans in the U.S. remains neglected or defaced by misconceptions, bigotry, and anti-Arab hate in the forms of crimes and speech; and

WHEREAS, Arab American issues, such as civil rights abuses, harmful stereotyping, and bullying must be combatted in the forms of education and awareness; as Arab Americans join all Americans in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels safe; and

WHEREAS, the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped us build a better nation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Christian Dorsey, Chair of the County Board of Arlington, Virginia, do hereby proclaim April 2019 as

NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

in Arlington, and encourage all residents to join us in this special observance, celebrating the contributions Arab Americans have made to society.

Christian Dorsey

Chair