Arab American Heritage Month is a time to honor the achievements of the approximately 3.7 million Arab Americans in the U.S. This year, however, many are not feeling inclined to celebrate due to a rise in anti-Arab sentiment and hate since the start of the war in Gaza. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) received a significant increase in reports of hate incidents, with experts linking this violence to events in Gaza. Despite efforts to celebrate the contributions of Arab Americans, the current climate of violence and discrimination has overshadowed the month this year.
The Arab American community is diverse, tracing its origins to 22 Arabic-speaking countries in the Middle East and Africa. Arabs in America have a long history dating back to the 19th century when they immigrated to the U.S. seeking opportunities and escaping conflicts. Efforts to establish Arab American Heritage Month began about 40 years ago, with President Joe Biden being the first to declare April as the designated month in 2021. However, this year, the somber mood within the community due to ongoing violence and loss in Gaza has cast a shadow over the celebrations.
While President Biden acknowledged the challenges faced by Arab Americans and highlighted the discrimination they endure in the U.S., many community members feel his words are insufficient. The continued support for Israel through weapon sales, despite the violence in Gaza, has raised concerns. Arab Americans advocating for Palestinian rights have faced harassment and repression, ranging from online attacks to physical violence. Statements recognizing Arab American Heritage Month by officials come across as disingenuous in light of the struggles faced by community members advocating for justice.
Individuals like Zaina Ujayli, a Ph.D. student specializing in Arab American history, have observed a growing sense of discomfort and discrimination against Arab Americans in recent months. This discrimination has become more overt, making the celebration of Arab American Heritage Month feel less meaningful. Despite the challenges, community members like Nader Ihmoud and Jasmin Abdullah continue to speak out against violence and injustice in Gaza, even in the face of harassment and fears of repercussions. The hope is to one day celebrate this heritage month free from violence and oppression.
As the community faces a surge in anti-Arab sentiment and hate, efforts to raise awareness about the contributions, culture, and history of Arab Americans are overshadowed by ongoing violence and discrimination. The celebrations for Arab American Heritage Month this year are colored by the somber reality of lives lost in Gaza and the challenges faced by community members advocating for Palestinian rights. Despite these challenges, community members continue to speak out and push for justice, hoping for a future where Arab American Heritage Month can be celebrated without the shadow of violence and oppression.
