CHICAGO: Hyatt center in Chicago hosted a reception at the Hyatt center in Palos Heights, Illinois, to honor Arab American heritage month. More than 200 people attended the event, including representatives of the Arab American community, the media, elected government figures, and community activists.
A special bill signed into law by the Illinois Legislature in January 2019 under the sponsorship of House speaker Michael J. Madigan proclaimed April as Arab American heritage month, and it is recognized in 18 U.S. states.
Governments and officials in more than 18 U.S. states have recognized April as Arab American heritage month, which is formally observed nationwide starting in January 2019 in Illinois. The national events of Arab American heritage month are being organized with assistance from Arab America.
In January 2019, a law designating April as Arab American heritage month was enacted by the Illinois Legislature. In order to honor the achievements Arab Americans have made to the state and to this country, Illinois House speaker Michael J. Madigan presented the legislation on October 10, 2018.
The ceremonies began with the singing of the American national anthem, which was sung by everyone present.
In a statement highlighting the event, Program Palos Height Trustee Ms. Tasneem Abuzar stated, “We are committed to creating an inclusive community that empowers all Arab communities.” This month, we may learn about and celebrate the variety that makes our community stronger. We promote respect and knowledge of Arab American heritage in our community through the activities, cultural gatherings, and educational initiatives this month.
“Everyone is welcome to join us in this celebration,” said Mr. Mazen Barakat, President of Hyatt Magazine.
By participating in public community events, learning about cultural practices at home, or simply learning more about the achievements of Arab Americans, each of you makes a difference.
Since the term “Arab” designates a cultural and linguistic group rather than an ethnicity or religion, the Arab American community covers a wide range of identities and experiences.
The keynote speaker was Cyril Nichols, a former state representative. He emphasized the disparities between the public and elected authorities. He claimed that the public chooses the elected politicians.
The last speaker, Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison, gave an explanation of why he proposed a proclamation in April by the Cook County government to celebrate Arab American heritage month.
He said that Muslims represent the community’s many contributions to the greatness of America, and Arab Americans are Christians and muslim. Arab Americans are a significant group in the nation, state, county, and city. Like everyone else, they have made significant contributions to the greatness of this nation, and I, along with other members of the Cook County Government, want them to know how much we value and regard them as equals.
