Loading ...National Arab American Heritage Month: 2025 Celebration Recap
Compiled By: Arwa Almasaari and Rena Elhessen / Arab America Contributing Writers
On Wednesday evening, the Banquet Center at Saints Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church in Potomac, Maryland, came alive with energy, pride, and resilience as hundreds gathered to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM). The event, hosted by the Arab America Foundation, served as a cultural showcase and a powerful act of unity and resistance during one of the most challenging periods for the Arab American community in recent history.
Originally scheduled at Amazon HQ2 under the invitation of Arabs at Amazon, Amazon abruptly and unilaterally canceled the event just 48 hours before it began. Despite months of planning and coordination—and nearly 300 attendees confirmed locally and from across the country—the cancellation left the Arab America Foundation scrambling to relocate. Fortunately, Saints Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church, moved by the circumstances, graciously opened their doors and saved the night.
The event featured an elaborate buffet of authentic Arab cuisine, accompanied by live musical tributes and traditional dance performances that highlighted the depth and diversity of Arab culture. From rich culinary experiences to powerful artistic expressions, the evening was an unforgettable celebration of identity and heritage.
The evening was emceed by Shirin Rajaee, a prominent Emmy-nominated TV anchor at FOX5 in Washington, D.C., and co-host of the station’s new “Take at 2” show. With over 15 years of media experience at CNN, ABC Santa Barbara, and CBS Sacramento, Rajaee brought professionalism and heartfelt sincerity to the event. A proud Iranian American, she is married to Lebanese American journalist Joe Khalil.
She expressed deep gratitude and pride in joining the evening’s celebration, sharing her journey as a proud Lebanese-Iranian American journalist. Raised in Los Angeles and now a mother, she reflected on the beauty and resilience of her culture, emphasizing the importance of raising her daughter with that same pride. Amid global devastation and harmful narratives about the Arab world, she stressed the urgent need for unity, authenticity, and cultural representation. She believes it is more important than ever to amplify Arab voices and showcase the richness of their heritage so the world can truly understand who they are.
The program began with a powerful and emotional address from Warren David, President of Arab America and Co-Founder of the Arab America Foundation. Reflecting on Amazon’s last-minute decision to cancel the event, David condemned the ongoing marginalization of Arab Americans in mainstream spaces.
“When will Arab Americans be free from discrimination, from erasure, from being treated as outsiders in our own country?” David asked. “Our event was meant to uplift our stories, build bridges, and affirm our rightful place in the fabric of American society. Instead, we were told again that our identity is too complicated, too controversial, too risky to be acknowledged.”
David’s speech struck a deep chord with the audience, many of whom had traveled across states to attend. He reaffirmed the importance of standing proud as Arab Americans, insisting that the community must continue to raise its voice against discrimination, double standards, and exclusion.
“Let this moment serve as a reminder: Our resilience is greater than their rejection. And our unity is stronger than their silence.”
Following David’s remarks, Dr. Amal David, Co-Founder of the Arab America Foundation, spoke about the organization’s key initiatives. She celebrated the success of NAAHM proclamations collected nationwide and highlighted the foundation’s Rising Leaders program, which empowers young Arab Americans under 20, 30, and 40. Dr. David also emphasized the importance of building grassroots networks and recognizing team leaders from various states who were present at the event. She closed by encouraging pride in Arab American identity and a commitment to continued civic engagement.
Dr. Adel Korkor, Chairman of the Arab America Foundation, reflected on the richness of Arab heritage, emphasizing the deep-rooted values of generosity and welcoming others. He spoke of the joy that comes from unity and gathering as a community, especially during times of cultural celebration. Dr. Korkor highlighted how these traditions not only define Arab identity but also serve as a bridge to greater understanding and connection with others.
Entrepreneur and activist Andy Shallal struck a deeply reflective tone, speaking to the emotional weight many feel in today’s turbulent world. He passionately emphasized the importance of joy, unity, and activism amid overwhelming injustice. Shallal criticized Amazon for its stance, condemned the fragility of oppressive systems, and celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world. He highlighted global struggles and called for solidarity, civic engagement, and historical accountability. He urged the audience to take activism beyond the streets—into campaigns, donations, and political halls. He insisted this is a historic moment, stressing that we must courageously lead. Despite the darkness, we are the moral majority shaping a more just future.
Adding levity and laughter to the evening, comedian Mohanad Elsheiky delivered a dynamic and thought-provoking monologue centered on his experiences as an Arab American. His blend of humor and insight provided a refreshing and relatable perspective, reminding the audience of the power of laughter amid struggle.
The cultural programming continued with a stunning musical tribute to Umm Kulthum, the legendary Arab vocalist. Led by Marwa Morgan and the Umm Kulthum Ensemble, the performance featured several beloved selections that paid homage to the voice that defined generations.
During the performance, Morgan captivated the audience with a selection of beloved classics from the golden age of Arab music. Her repertoire included Ya Fayetny Wana Rouhy Ma’ak (“You Left Me and My Soul Is With You”), composed by Mohamed Al Qasabji; Seeret El Hob (“The Mention of Love”) by Baligh Hamdy; Ya Mesaharny (“You Keep Me Up at Night”) by Sayed Mekkawi; and Madam Teheb Btenker Leh (“If You’re in Love, Why Deny It?”), also by Mohamed Al Qasabji. At the close, she sang an encore, Ghaneeli Showay Showay (“Sing to Me Softly”), composed by Zakareya Ahmed.
The evening closed with an electrifying performance by the Faris El-Leyl Folkloric Dabke Troupe, accompanied by the renowned DJ Basbousa. Their spirited dabke performance ignited the crowd, and soon, audience members joined in, dancing to the rhythms of traditional and modern Arab hits. The energy was joyful, cathartic, and affirming.
As the night drew close, attendees departed with renewed pride, purpose, and empowerment. Despite the obstacles faced, the community stood united and undeterred. The evening was a powerful reminder that Arab Americans will continue celebrating their heritage, elevating their voices, and resisting efforts to erase their place in the American narrative.
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