Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring April 2026, as National Arab American Heritage Month in Rockville, Maryland
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mayor and Council read, approve, and present proclamation to Samira Hussein, Founder, Arab American Heritage Month, Founder, Chair, Arab Americans of Montgomery County, Member, Islamic Center of Maryland (ICM); Arwa Abed, Middle Eastern American Liaison, Office of Community Partnerships; and Reem Sharaf, Clinical Social Worker, Outreach Committee, Islamic Center of Maryland.
Discussion
April is National Arab American Heritage Month. The culture and rich diversity of the over 3.5 million Arab Americans, who have been in America since the 1870’s, were not recognized and celebrated.
This April, the Arab America Foundation proudly celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM), honoring the rich history, diversity, and enduring contributions of Arab Americans across the United States. The 2026 theme, “Many Voices, One Community,” reflects the breadth of Arab American identities while affirming the shared values that unite the community.
Arab Americans trace their roots to more than 22 countries and represent a wide range of faiths, languages, professions, and lived experiences. Many Voices, One Community underscores the idea that this diversity is not a weakness, but a strength-one that enriches American society and deepens our collective story.
Throughout April, the Arab America Foundation formally acknowledges the accomplishments of Arab Americans. This celebration is embraced by cultural institutions, school districts, municipalities, state legislatures, public servants, and non-profit organizations nationwide. Special events and proclamations honor our community's rich heritage and contributions to American society.
The National Arab American Heritage Month initiative, launched in 2017 by Arab America and the Arab America Foundation, has gained significant momentum.
Congresswoman Debbie Dingle of Michigan, along with several Arab American organizations, sponsored a resolution in 2017 establishing April as Arab American Heritage Month.
In 2024, the President of the United States recognized April as National Arab American Heritage Month, and Congress and 37 state governors commemorated this initiative. Our grassroots network, comprising over 250 Arab American volunteers in 26 states, secured over 140 proclamations from states, counties, municipalities, and local school districts.
During April, the Arab America Foundation formally recognizes the achievements of Arab Americans through the celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM).
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council proclaim April as National Arab American Heritage Month annually.