April 01, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2025
Contact: press@michigan.gov
Gov. Whitmer Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
Honoring significant roles Arab Americans have played in Michigan and beyond
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a proclamation, recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month. This month, Michiganders will honor and celebrate the significant roles of Arab Americans in Michigan and beyond.
“Arab Americans are a part of Michigan’s proud, diverse history and future,” said Governor Whitmer. “This month, we celebrate the immeasurable contributions to Michigan’s culture and economy that our Arab American friends and neighbors have made. Together, let’s honor their achievements, reflect on their history, and recommit to building a Michigan where everyone can thrive.”
“Michigan’s Arab American population has helped weave the diverse and resilient fabric of our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Their accomplishments have shaped our state and nation in countless ways, enriching our communities and driving progress. As we celebrate Arab American Heritage Month, let’s honor their achievements and stand tall for a Michigan where every person can reach their full potential and be their best selves.”
The month of April celebrates Arab American Heritage Month to commemorate the valuable contributions that Arab Americans have made to virtually every aspect of American society in medicine, law, business, education, technology, government, military service, culture, and more.
To view the full proclamation, click here.
“Michigan is home to the largest concentration of Arab Americans in the nation,” said state Representative Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn). “Many proudly serve as first responders, physicians, lawyers, and care deeply about the communities they live in. During this month, we all can embrace the strength that each of our backgrounds bring and celebrate the contributions that Arab Americans have made in Michigan.”
“Dearborn has long been recognized as the heart of Arab America, and the impact and contributions of Arab Americans can be felt across the state,” said Abdullah Hammoud, Mayor of Dearborn. “Michigan's Arab American community has made significant contributions to our state's rich tapestry through its resilience, innovative spirit, and diverse cultural heritage. As entrepreneurs, educators, public servants, and artists, they have played a vital role in shaping Michigan's past, present, and future.”
“Arab Americans have long been an integral part of Michigan’s story – especially in Wayne County, where their leadership, innovation, and cultural heritage have enriched every aspect of community life,” said Assad Turfe, Deputy Wayne County Executive. “During Arab American Heritage Month, we proudly honor their enduring contributions and celebrate the vibrant legacy that continues to shape the strength of our state.”
"We commend Governor Whitmer for proclaiming April as Arab American Heritage Month, a well-deserved recognition of the immense contributions Arab Americans have made to Michigan and beyond,” said Wassim Mahfouz, CEO, LAHC-Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities.“Our community has enriched every sector—education, business, healthcare, public service, and the arts—while upholding values of hard work, resilience, and generosity. At LAHC, we see firsthand how Arab Americans continue to drive positive change, empower communities, and foster a more inclusive society. This proclamation is not just a celebration of our heritage, but also a testament to the vital role Arab Americans play in shaping our shared future."
"We are honored to have Governor Whitmer officially proclaim April as Arab American Heritage Month. This recognition is a powerful acknowledgment of the countless contributions Arab Americans have made — and continue to make — across Michigan and the nation,” said Bilal Hammoud, Executive Director, American Arab Chamber of Commerce/Tejara. “From entrepreneurship and innovation to public service and the arts, our community is woven into the fabric of this state’s success. At the Chamber and through Tejara, we see every day how Arab American entrepreneurs and changemakers are not only contributing to Michigan’s growth—but reimagining what’s possible for our communities. This month is a reminder of our shared responsibility to invest in the people, places, and stories that continue to shape Michigan’s cultural richness and economic character."
“This month honors generations of Arab Americans whose work, culture, and contributions have enriched both Michigan and the nation,” said Lina Hourani-Harajli, Chief Operating Officer of ACCESS. “It is also a celebration of the vibrant future we are building together — one rooted in unity and shared progress.”
Governor Whitmer’s Historic Wins for the Arab American Community Across Michigan:
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