Loading ...National Arab American Heritage Month Gains Momentum Across America in 2025
Photo credit: Arab America Foundation
By: Claire Boyle / Arab America Contributing Writer
The month of April is a significant time for cultural celebrations, recognition of diversity initiatives, and education within the Arab American community, as it has been officially designated as National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM). During April, Arab Americans, community leaders, and everyday citizens come together to promote and celebrate the rich culture, life, and values of those of Arab descent.
History of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM):
The movement to recognize April as NAAHM began in 2017 when the Arab America Foundation and Arab America worked with a “handful of states that recognized the initiative” and gave proclamations in celebration of the month. Since then, it has grown to include over “250 volunteers across 26 states who reach out to state and local municipalities, school districts,” businesses, and beyond.
In 2021, former President Joe Biden sent a letter to the Arab America Foundation to officially recognize April as NAAHM, and he followed that up again in 2023 with a proclamation declaring all Americans to celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of Arab Americans. This recognition was historic as this was the first time a sitting U.S. president acknowledged NAAHM and requested Americans to celebrate this integral initiative. 2023 saw much recognition from the federal government, including a special message from former First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden, the U.S. State Department, and an attempt by Congresswomen Debbie Dingell and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan for Congress to pass a nationwide resolution in honor of NAAHM. Former President Joe Biden followed up in 2024 by recognizing April as NAAHM with another proclamation.
This article explores how the NAAHM initiative continues to impact more organizations year after year.
Proclamations:
Arab America Foundation’s 24 state teams and 250+ volunteers continue to reach out to their state and local municipalities to obtain proclamations in recognition and celebration of NAAHM. Most of these proclamations are only designated to celebrate April 2025 as NAAHM; however, multiple states have permanent declarations, including Illinois, Oregon, Virginia, the Senate in Indiana, and California.
So far, Arab America Foundation has received close to 100 proclamations this year and the number grows every day.
Raleigh, NC City Council Proclamation:
Janet Cowell, the Mayor of Raleigh, North Carolina, recently signed a proclamation celebrating April as National Arab American Heritage Month. The proclamation was signed on March 31, 2025, in anticipation of April 2025 being celebrated as NAAHM.
City of Wichita, Kansas Proclamation:
City of Asheville, North Carolina Proclamation:
Congresswomen from Michigan – Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell Reintroduce Resolution to codify April as NAAHM:
Michigan Congresswomen, Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell, recently reintroduced a resolution that would codify April as NAAHM and be celebrated by the U.S. Congress. They also attempted this during the Biden Administration, and it unfortunately did not pass.
Arab America Foundation Events in Washington, DC:
April 9: National Arab American Heritage Month Commemoration 2025
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 Commemoration 2025. The event, hosted by the Arab American Foundation, served as a cultural showcase and a powerful act of unity and resistance during one of the most challenging periods in recent history for the Arab American community. 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.
April 9: Luncheon at the Library of Congress with Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib
On April 9th at noon, Arab Americans had the honor of attending a special reception at the Library of Congress to commemorate National Arab American Heritage Month. Hosted by Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), the event brought together members of Congress and Arab American community leaders from across the country. Congresswoman Tlaib highlighted the importance of NAAHM in challenging misconceptions and promoting understanding of Arab and Muslim communities. Remarks were also delivered by Arab America Foundation Co-founders Warren and Dr. Amal David, who emphasized the month’s role in celebrating heritage, fostering unity, and recognizing the valuable contributions of Arab Americans nationwide.
April 12: Understanding Arab Music Workshop at the MLK–Martin Luther King Library in Washington DC
On Saturday, April 12th, the MLK Library, in collaboration with the Arab America Foundation, hosted a vibrant celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month featuring acclaimed vocalist and composer Muath Edriss and his Arab Music Ensemble. The performance offered attendees an immersive journey through the diverse traditions of Arab music, highlighting classical, folk, and pop styles. Edriss introduced traditional instruments, including the oud, violin, kanun, and tabla, while showcasing vocal and musical forms such as the mawal and muwashah. The event beautifully bridged heritage and modernity, offering a powerful cultural experience and celebrating the richness of Arab American musical contributions.
April 25: Sounds of the Arab World: A Celebration from Taarab to Pop with Nibal Malshi and Ensemble at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage
On a memorable April evening at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, over 250 attendees gathered to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month with an unforgettable performance by Palestinian vocalist Nibal Malshi and her Arab music ensemble. Presented in partnership with the Arab America Foundation, the event highlighted Malshi’s exceptional talent and inspiring journey from Haifa to the world stage. Blending classical Arab music with contemporary flair, Malshi’s soulful performance captivated the audience, showcasing the richness of Arab culture. Her message of unity and resilience through music resonated deeply, making this celebration a powerful tribute to Arab American heritage and identity.
April 25: Post Concert Meet and Greet Reception at Bus Boys and Poets
Following the powerful performance at the Kennedy Center, many concertgoers gathered for a lively and heartwarming meet-and-greet at Busboys and Poets in Washington, DC. The evening was filled with laughter, connection, and a sense of community spirit as attendees networked, sang beloved Arab songs together, and celebrated their shared heritage. The sing-along created a joyful, nostalgic atmosphere, sparking spontaneous performances and deepening bonds among Arab Americans and allies. It was a memorable night of music, culture, and unity.
National Arab American Heritage Month Expands Its Reach in 2025
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson Celebrates NAAHM!
Chicago Mayor, Brandon Johnson, released an Instagram reel in celebration of the accomplishments that Arab Americans have made to the city. In the caption, he posted that “Arab Americans…make Chicago stronger, richer, and more inclusive.”
Mayor of San Francisco
San Francisco City Hall held a special press conference, led by Mayor Daniel Lurie, to celebrate Arab American Heritage Month. This meaningful event honored Arab Americans’ rich cultural heritage, achievements, and contributions to the city and nation.
New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (NYC Cultural Affairs):
Iowa State Education Association:
The History Channel
The History Channel celebrates the rich and diverse culture and contributions of the Arab American population, and National Arab American Heritage Month has been observed during the month of April since 2017. More than 3.5 million Americans have Arab roots, with ancestries traced to 22 countries across the Middle East and North Africa.
Al-Madinah Community Center, Toledo, OH:
Arab Americans in Toledo, OH, recently hosted their third annual NAAHM event at the Al-Madinah Community Center that was also centered on a MENA (Middle East North African) mental health initiative with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Toledo. The event was intended to have a “sensory component where attendees could try many different foods, look at artifacts, and enjoy live entertainment.”
University of Toledo:
During the week of April 21, 2025, the University of Toledo, held two events that celebrated Arab American heritage. The first event was a student research symposium called “From the Arab Countries,” and the second event was a panel discussion focusing on mental health.
Kanopy:
Kanopy, an “online on-demand streaming video platform”, often hosted on universities’ library databases, organized a list of Arab Cinema and documentaries celebrating April as Arab American Heritage Month.
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU):
Three students and one staff member of Arab American descent were interviewed about their research and how their culture impacts their studies. The four students studied diverse topics, including biology and violence prevention, worked in residence life, and one was on the pre-med track.
King County Metro, Washington state:
The King County Metro system in Washington state wrote an article recognizing Arab American Heritage Month. They cited the Arab America Foundation as the organization that “leads the observance each April by celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans.” They also mention prominent Arab events in Washington state, including the Seattle Arab Festival held in mid-July, and Western Washington University is hosting many programs relating to Arab American Heritage Month in April.
Indiana Daily Student:
Photo credit: Indiana Daily Student / Evelyn Strauss
The Indiana Daily Student newspaper recognized April as National Arab American Heritage Month. In their article, they described the history of NAAHM as being created by the Arab America Foundation. They also cited Indiana University’s IU Arabic Flagship Program in the Hamilton Lugar School. The students involved in the program reach “superior-level proficiency in the Arabic language, spend a year abroad in Meknes, Morocco, and attend cultural training.”
Field Museum of Chicago/University of Illinois at Chicago’s Arab American Cultural Center:
The Field Museum of Chicago, in coordination with the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Arab American Cultural Center, put together a storytime for young children at the museum in celebration of NAAHM. The story was reported by CBS 2 News Chicago.
Taco Bell:
This year, Taco Bell, shares Mohammed’s story, one of which includes the beauty of his Egyptian upbringing, to him feeling like the odd kid “who brought lunch to school that smelled different than everyone’s Lunchables.” Mohammed works as a Marketing Analyst with Taco Bell, and this April marked his “14-month anniversary with the Taco Bell Foundation.” He shares that working with and being around food has always been a part of his culture, and now as an adult, he celebrates both the Arab and American cultures that he is a part of.
AUC Press:
The American University in Cairo (AUC) Press recently compiled a list of books to celebrate NAAHM. Their works they have published, include workbooks for the Arabic language, cookbooks, and books “from the diaspora along with research.”
LGBTQ Reads:
The website, LGBTQ Reads, recently compiled a booklist celebrating Arab American Heritage Month. The authors said they were “celebrating books with protagonists of Arab descent.” The booklist features works for Young Adult (YA) readers and Adult Fiction.
TAP Metro Card – Los Angeles:
The TAP Metro Card in Los Angeles for public transportation released a limited edition NAAHM Metro Card. You can purchase one while supplies last at www.taptogo.net, according to TAP Metro’s website. It is a white card with Arab mosaics that says, “Arab American Heritage Month 2025 – tap.” On TAP Metro’s Facebook post, they said it was all about “celebrating the art, history, and flavors around Los Angeles.”
Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, Beaverton, Oregon:
The Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District in Beaverton, Oregon, gathered information about Arab Americans and Arab American Heritage Month on their website. The district mentioned “Arab American Heritage Month is celebrated from April 1 to April 30, 2025, and they cited Arab America as an educational resource.”
American Airlines:
American Airlines compiled some films that celebrate identity during NAAHM and made a playlist aboard a flight for passengers.
Denver School Program:
Denver School Program compiled a list of resources to celebrate and recognize April as NAAHM. Of particular importance, they cited an article written by one of Arab America’s intern writers. They linked to the article titled, “Ways to Celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in Your Organization, School and Community.” The Denver School program website created this resource list for parents of preschool children to be culturally literate regarding NAAHM.
Arlington Public Library – East Library & Recreation Center in Arlington, Texas:
The Arlington Public Library in Arlington, Texas, hosts monthly “Tea Time” celebrations. In April 2025, the library decided its monthly Tea Time would take on an Arab flair. During the Tea Time celebration, it was noted that “tea is really a symbol of hospitality and generosity in the Arab World…[and it] plays a very significant role in treating guests as a treasure.”
Los Angeles County Office of Education:
The Los Angeles County Office of Education created an educational resource for teachers and families to celebrate NAAHM. The article had sections dedicated to age-appropriate lesson plans and activities, from pre-K to 12th grade. They also cited the Arab America Foundation’s “Educator’s Curriculum Kit” as an integral source, as well as the media resources that can be found on Arab America’s website.
Insights Training Group, LLC
Oak Park Public Library, Oak Park, IL:
The Oak Park Public Library (OPPL) in Oak Park, IL, gathered a list of library materials in celebration of NAAHM. On their library guide they recommend numerous ways that the public can recognized NAAHM, including “browsing curated suggestions for all ages, attending their Arab American Heritage Month Celebration on April 12, 2025, viewing a special display in their ‘Idea Box’, from April 1-30, and exploring librarian-curated resources.”
The library also encouraged children to learn Arabic – both Modern Standard Arabic and various dialects throughout the Arab World.
The Westport Library:
The Westport Library compiled a LibGuide celebrating NAAHM. In the article, they showcase some famous works by Arab authors and poets, including Laila Lalami, Randa Jarrar, and Threa Almontaser, among others. They also trace the history of Arab America‘s involvement in creating National Arab American Heritage Month, which was written by one of the organization’s former interns.
Chicago Public Library:
The Chicago Public Library curated a display of selected works by Arab American authors on politics, their experiences in America, and history. Some of the authors listed include political activist Linda Sarsour and academic Nadine Naber.
Illinois Department of Human Rights:
Bowman & Company, LLP:
Bowman & Company, LLP, a CPA and consulting firm, celebrated NAAHM. In the article, they cited famous Arab Americans, including Helen Thomas, and former President Joe Biden’s historic letter to the Arab America Foundation in April 2021, which became the first official recognition and mention of the month by a sitting U.S. President.
State Bar of California:
Cook County, Illinois, Treasurer’s Office of Maria Pappas:
American Institute of Physics:
The American Institute of Physics celebrated NAAHM through the lens of science, including “optics, motion, and mathematics.” They cited the importance of Arab scholars during the Islamic Golden Age.
University of Southern California–Middle Eastern North African Assembly
Maryland Attorney General:
Anthony Brown, the Attorney General of the state of Maryland, posted NAAHM greetings on their Facebook page. In the message, he wrote that “this month, we are celebrating the vibrant contributions of Maryland’s Arab American communities. We honor you and are dedicated to fostering a future of inclusion and opportunity for all.”
Michigan Department of Civil Rights:
The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) sent out warm greetings on their Facebook post to celebrate NAAHM. Here was what the MDCR posted:
"Happy Arab American Heritage Month!
In April we celebrate Arab Americans past and present, recognizing their rich culture and incredible contributions to our country. It’s also a time to speak out against anti-Arab bigotry by challenging biases and stereotypes.
#ArabAmericanHeritageMonth #ArabAmerican #Michigan #StopHate"
Minnesota Vikings NFL Team:
On X, formerly known as Twitter, the Minnesota Vikings NFL Team posted a message recognizing NAAHM. Staying true to their team colors, the NAAHM post was written in a very purplish tone with mosaics from the Arab World in the background.
Detroit Pistons NBA Team:
On the popular Instagram page titled “Dearborn,” they mentioned how the Detroit Pistons decided to have a game where they gave out 1,000 jerseys in Arabic. Of particular mention, the post from “Dearborn” shared other NAAHM-themed events held by Michigan/Detroit-area sports teams, including that fans could “get a custom Arabic ‘Detroit Tigers’ baseball hat and the Detroit City Football Club was hosting an NAAHM-themed night with the halftime show that celebrated Arab American culture.”
Detroit Metropolitan Airport:
Detroit Metropolitan Airport joins the nationwide celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM), as demonstrated by this display from the Wayne County Airport Authority. The vibrant signage honors the rich cultural heritage, history, and contributions of Arab Americans, fostering pride, inclusion, and recognition during this important month of national observance.
Fairfax County Public Library:
The Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) created numerous events to recognize NAAHM, including “Coloring Arabesque Patterns, Family Storytime Extravaganza, Arabic Stories and Calligraphy for Kids, Poetry Reading and Writing, and the Arab American Cultural Open House.”
Junior League of Tallahassee:
New York Road Runners (NYRR):
New York Road Runners (NYRR), featured a list of Arab and Arab American athletes in the running community to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month. In their write-up, they cited Sarah Attar, Rahaf Khatib, Amena Saad, Abdulla Alshehhi, Jaouad Gharib, and Manal Rostom.
Hyatt:
Iowa Democratic Party:
Michigan Democrats:
American Federation of Teachers:
The American Federation of Teachers, one of the largest professional organizations that represents educators nationwide, posted on X that NAAHM is a “time to honor the rich history of Arab Americans.
Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA):
SAG-AFTRA used its platform to “highlight some Arab Americans #SagAftraMembers who make our industry a better place.”
American Board of Anesthesiologists:
The American Board of Anesthesiologists said they are recognizing NAAHM to “celebrate the contributions of Arab American board-certified anesthesiologists and candidates for certification.” What an exciting celebration!
Atlanta Airport:
Actors’ Equity:
Saffron Ensemble:
The Saffron Ensemble, a traditional Arab musical group founded by Timothy Maloof, presented two performances at libraries in Pasadena, California. The group is normally a three-member band, but they recently added two violinist sisters to bring their music as close as possible to original Arab music, which includes the violin. They play the music in Maqam style on instruments such as the oud, vocals, cello, derbeki, riqq, bendir, and the violin.
CounterPunch:
CounterPunch, a left-leaning magazine, recently wrote an article on how drinking coffee is a celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month. In the piece, the authors describe that despite “Ethiopia being the birthplace of coffee, it was actually first commercially cultivated in Yemen. In fact, the word for coffee comes from the Arabic word, qahwa, which means coffee, and the word mocha, which is derived from the Yemeni port, Al-Mokha, where coffee was first shipped.”
Smithsonian Institution:
The Smithsonian Institution has a page on its website dedicated to Arab American Heritage Month. On the website, they have compiled archival sources, photos, naturalization certificates, and, of particular importance, Gibran’s message to Young Americans of Syrian Origin. This website is a feast for the eyes if you love history!
Society of Women Engineers (SWE):
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Blog recently compiled a list of famous Arab American and Arab female engineers and honored their contributions to the field of STEM.
Jacksonville City Council, Jacksonville, FL:
The Jacksonville City Council unanimously voted (16-0) to pass a resolution in support of April being recognized as NAAHM. The Council stated that the resolution was due to that “Jacksonville is home to a vibrant Arab American community, and their contributions continue to strengthen our city’s social, economic, and cultural fabric.”
San Diego Unified School District
Conclusion:
As one can see, the recognition and celebration of April as National Arab American Heritage Month continues to grow each year, reaching new organizations and locations. It is essential to celebrate NAAHM because it expands our cultural horizons and honors the contributions of a community in the United States since the American Revolution. Arab Americans are an integral part of the diverse fabric called the United States of America. Let us join in celebrating their accomplishments this April and beyond!
Check out Arab America’s blog here!
