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, Mayor Bowser became the first mayor to 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.” The State Department says 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.” 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 DC
MLK Library is hosting an afternoon of fashion, food, music, and visual art presented by local Arab Americans, including interactive workshops with community leaders. It takes place Saturday, April 27, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are Free!
Head to the Dew Drop Inn for an eclectic mix of vendors and performers from across the Arab world, including DJs, crafting stations, and traditional cuisine. It takes place Saturday, May 25 from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m, and tickets are $25.
Check out the Smithsonian’s collection of oral histories, archived materials, and artifacts related to Arab American history and culture. The majority can be found at the National Museum of American History, but some are spread throughout the Smithsonian.
