Arab American Heritage Month

Floor Speech

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Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate April as National Arab American Heritage Month to recognize the tremendous contributions Arab Americans have made to our great nation. Arab Americans have been, and continue to be, an invaluable part of our American life.

Arab American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of people in the United States with Middle Eastern roots as well as for the public to become informed about the history of Arab Americans in the U.S.

Arab Americans are among the most loyal and patriotic Americans and have positively impacted communities throughout America with contributions to the medical field, agriculture sector, law, business, education, the entertainment industry, politics and beyond.

While celebrating their rich cultural heritage and embracing resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed, Arab Americans have added strength to our democracy.

While many unfairly perceive Arab Americans as unknown or unfamiliar, Arab Americans first began to arrive on American shores in the late 1800s. About half of the estimated 3,700,000 Arab Americans living in the United States were born in the U.S., according to the 2000 U.S. Census and the Arab American Institute.

Arab Americans join all citizens in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels safe. Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month allows us to promote public education, awareness, and policies that are culturally competent when describing, discussing, or addressing the impacts of being Arab American in all aspects of American society.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to represent the Arab American constituents in my district, many of whom I call friends, and to recognize the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans who have helped us build a better nation.

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