Arab Americans Flood Clinton Rally in Detroit
BY: Shema Aman/Ambassador Representative
I cannot believe that this day has finally come and the much-anticipated wait shall soon be over. As an educator, I thrive on making memorable teaching experiences for my students. It’s vital to extend the lessons outside of our classrooms to channel real life and first hand experiences. It’s less “teaching to the test” and more project based learning. Over the past year we have analyzed the debates, had long discussions about the candidates, deconstructed the Republican and Democratic parties, and watched the news each night to see how much influence they have over the American people.
I recently had the privilege of attending the Hillary Clinton rally this past Friday at the Eastern Market in Detroit, Michigan with my students. They were troopers, standing in the lines outside of Shed 3, down Russell Street and further up to Riopelle and beyond. So many people took action that day to be a part of history in the making. More importantly, the strong presence of Arab Americans was well exhibited. Hijabis from all nations of the Muslim world were proudly displaying their allegiance with Hillary Clinton. Young Arab American professionals in their work attire raced from work to stand in the long lines just to see our future president take the stage. Imams and Sheikhs humbly walked down Adelaide Street with their eyes shocked by the massive line continuing down to I-75. Brothers and sisters of both Christianity and Islam were smiling and greeting each other with their eyes because of a silent solitude and loyalty with one another.
Voting is how we express our values and choose the leaders that we trust to shape the future for our children. In this election, Arab Americans are voting to make their voices heard. As an Arab American, I voted for Hillary Clinton because she believes in equality, opportunity, and hard work. I’m voting for Hillary because after her career as a lawyer, law professor, First Lady of Arkansas, First Lady of the United States, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of State, she has more exposure and experience to the presidency than anyone in our lifetime. She is by far the most qualified candidate in this election. She plans on helping Americans with pursuing their education by making college more affordable, helping families with their bills, and improving schools. So Hillary has done her job. Now it’s time for us to do ours. Let’s join the millions of Americans who will lead to the polls on November 8.
It’s through these actions and memories that we create lasting impressions for our students who will grow into young adults, trying to make a difference in a global society. Teaching them to be peacemakers and not peace breakers – that’s the gap that we want to close. America has always been great, now let’s make America kind again.