Arab American Heritage Month is observed in April to honor the achievements of Arab Americans. During this month, we celebrate the rich culture of Arab Americans through art, music, food, and more. While the contributions, accomplishments, and culture of Arab Americans should be acknowledged and celebrated all year, many organizations host special events and make their resources more readily available. Metro-Detroit is home to the largest population of Arab Americans in the US so there are plenty of ways to celebrate locally. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help get you started.
Explore Arab American Heritage
- InsideOut Literary Arts: Arab American Culture in Verse at the DIA on April 6th
- The Arab World and Arab Americans presentation at the Royal Oak Library on April 8th
- MENAPC Lunch at MSP on April 10th
- Decolonizing Tongues, Weaving Futures: Indigenous/Arab Solidarity, Creativity, and Linguistic Self Determination at the Arab American National Museum on April 13th
- Cinema Nights at the Museum: Jacir at the Arab American National Museum on April 20th
- Drawing in the Galleries: Arts of the Ancient Middle East at the DIA on April 26th
- Various events at the Ann Arbor District Libraries
- Visit Detroit guide to Dearborn
Learn Arab American History and Culture
- Visit the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn
- Free admission and extended hours during Arab American Heritage Month
- Watch Don’t Erase Me: The Modern Arab American TEDxOhioStateUniversity
- PBS Specials – Arab Americans
- The Conversation: Arab Americans are a much more diverse group than many of their neighbors mistakenly assume
- History Channel – Arab American Heritage Month
Buy From Arab American-Owned Business
- Shopping and Specialty Retail
- Restaurants, Food & Beverage
- Full Arab American Chamber of Commerce Listings
Arab American-led Organizations to Support
- Arab American Foundation
- Arab American Institute
- Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS)
Other Ways to Support
- Research Arab American culture in your community.
- How Did Detroit Become a Center for Arabs in the United States?
- Arab American Stories from Detroit Public Television
- How Did Detroit Become a Center for Arabs in the United States?
- Read Arab American literature.
- Support Arab American artists and musicians.
Most importantly keep learning and reflecting and remember that the challenges Arab American communities face are ongoing, not just history. Incorporate anti-racism into everyday action.
