8 Reasons Why Arab Americans are Thankful
By: Ani Karapetyan/Arab America Contributing Writer
America cannot be concluded in any framework; it’s so diverse that it is impossible to describe it in one article. America is special and unique. Here, people are from around the globe, with different religions, histories, and cultures.
People are moving to the United States from all over the world, even from prosperous Western Europe and Britain, not to mention newcomers from the Middle East and Africa. “The country of opportunities”, this is how the U.S has been known for more than 200 years. Arab populations too, among other peoples, are coming to this country to pursue their American dream.
Here are 8 reasons why Arab Americans come to this country:
1. The opportunity
One of the main reasons people from the Arab World come here is for the opportunity. Arab Americans, like any other peoples who immigrate to the U.S., have tremendous ambition and a desire to work hard for a decent life. Many of them do work very hard, strive for the new, for the better, and they do achieve all the peaks.
2. Respect toward immigrants
In the US, most people have a positive attitude toward immigrants. After all, people perfectly understand that their ancestors also once came to this beautiful country to realize their dream, and at first, it was not easy for them either. Also, many new Arab immigrants feel that they are treated mostly as all people.
Americans, in general, are kind to Arabs and other immigrants in America. They are patient with their attempts to communicate in English. Even if they have broken English, Americans have the tendency to help and guide the newly arrived. In addition, many Americans are very interested in people from other countries; they ask where they came from, how long have they been living here, etc. This kindness and other behaviors contribute to the interest of Arab Americans to integrate into this society.
3. Freedom and individuality
America is a free country with freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and independent behavior. Arabs in the U.S. as well possess the benefits of freedom, and not afraid to demonstrate their individuality
4. Freedom in appearance
In the U.S., people are mostly casual in dress and appearance. No one stares at others if they wear shorts during warm days. In America, people can dress as they like, from traditional dresses to casual clothing. Women are free to wear comfortable clothes, even more, revealing ones.
5. Business opportunities
In the U.S., it is comparatively easy to open and do business. It is in the nature of Arab Americans to work for themselves and work many days and very long hours to make it work. Of course, there are laws and regulations, but still, it’s achievable, especially that Arab Americans opening businesses don’t need an American sponsor to eat away their profit. Household corruption is minimal, and owners of businesses get tax breaks.
Hence, America is a perfect country for Arab American business people. In addition, there are 50 states with different tax rates. Arab Americans are opening businesses in Delaware and many other small states, including gas stations and restaurants, serving delicious Arab food.
6. Active involvement in political life
Arab Americans take advantage of the free political life; feel like masters in their new country, their state, city, street. This is on the increase, especially, among the young generation. Their participation in solving public issues is also increasing. They do have the tendency to argue about politics with their neighbors, family, and colleagues without spoiling friendly relations. They study their candidates, support them, and motivate others to go to vote.
7. Various social programs to support disabilities
In America, human life is recognized as the highest value. All people must live and should live well and with dignity, regardless of their special needs like moving in a wheelchair or have prosthetic devices, instead of hands or feet.
In America, Arabs with disabilities can realize themselves, and special social support programs help them in especially pressing problems. To Arab Americans, this is a heavenly asset that is available for them in this host country
8. Stability at retirement
After working for a company for 20-30 years, Arab Americans predict comfort at old age because of social security, pension, and the 401K pension fund.
For these reasons and more, Arabs are attracted to America, as many other peoples of the world. They are an integral part of the national system with an intent to contribute to its greatness and be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday and for their many blessings.
