Arab American National Museum
Address: 13624 Michigan Ave.
City: Dearborn
State: Michigan
Zip Code: 48126
Email: dakmon@accesscommunity.org
Phone: 313-582-2266
The Arab American National Museum (AANM) is the first and only museum in the United States devoted to Arab American history and culture.
The AANM is located in the heart of metro Detroit’s Arab American community. Through its interactive hands-on exhibits, the Museum documents and presents the Arab American story.
By bringing the voices and faces of Arab Americans to its audiences, the AANM affirms its commitment to dispel the many misconceptions about Arab Americans and other minorities.
The AANM brings to light the shared experiences of immigrants and ethnic groups, while paying tribute to the diversity of our nation.
There are four permanent exhibits and two temporary exhibit spaces at the Museum:
–Contributions of the Arab World
Exhibits featuring Arab civilization and its contributions to science, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, religion, language and art line the walls.
–Arab World Map
This interactive map allows visitors to explore each of the 22 countries that make up the Arab world. Lift the picture tiles and see the map light up or touch the computer screen to learn more about a specific Arab country.
–Coming to America
Examine the history of Arab immigration from the 16th century to the present. Through personal stories of Arab immigrants, the exhibit reflects their individual experiences, as well as the broader immigrant story.
–Living in America
The gallery focuses on the life of Arab Americans in United States during different time periods, while exploring an array of topics such as family, religion, activism, political involvement, work and leisure.
–Making an Impact
This interactive gallery uses games, music and video to tell the story of hundreds of Arab Americans and organizations whose contributions have influenced our way of life. Featured individuals include award-winning actor Tony Shalhoub, consumer advocate and presidential candidate Ralph Nader, White House journalist Helen Thomas and auto racing legend Bobby Rahal.
The Museum also offers the following services:
–Education and Public Programming
The Museum’s rich array of educational and cultural programming is designed to increase visitors’ appreciation and understanding of Arab American culture and contributions. These programs feature concerts, films, book readings, lectures, craft classes, conferences and festivals.
–Library and Resource Center
Designed to support the Museum’s mission, the Library and Resource Center offers a wide variety of books, magazines, video and web-based resources. The space also includes a reading area, computer, audio/visual workstations, and free wireless internet service. The library serves as a center for research about Arab Americans.
–Museum Store
The store offers AANM related items, gifts from the Arab world, books and materials to enhance visitor’s experience. On-line shopping is available.