April is recognized as National Arab American Heritage Month, an annual celebration of Arab American heritage and culture. The observation dates back to the 1990s, when some schools across the country began observing the event. Now, it is a nationwide celebration that honors the significant contributions of Arab Americans to the United States.
Historians note that the first group of Middle Eastern people arrived in the U.S in 1875, with immigration picking up in the 1940s and surging in the 1960s from countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, Iraq, and others. It is estimated that over four million Arab Americans currently reside in the United States.
Like so many other immigrant groups, Arab Americans have made valuable contributions to the country, dedicating themselves to service in various fields including the military, politics, arts, entertainment, and academia. The Arab American community's impact is felt in countless areas of American society.
In 2017, Arab America launched a national initiative to coordinate all states under National Arab American Heritage Month. In April 2019, a congressional resolution was introduced to proclaim National Arab American Heritage Month, and on April 25, 2021, President Biden recognized April as National Arab American Heritage Month.
We recognize and honor the contributions of Arab Americans as National Arab American Heritage Month provides another unique opportunity to celebrate and honor the diverse cultures that make the United States a vibrant and welcoming place.