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'ffl0eteab, President Joe Biden on March 31, 2023 issued a Proclamation declaring April 2023 Arab American Heritage Month, portions of which are excerpted below; '00eteab, "the Arab American story is the American story - one of diverse backgrounds and faiths, vibrant tradition, bold innovation, hard work, commitment to community, and stalwart patriotism, all coming together to accomplish something greater than any one of us. This month, we join together to celebrate the immeasurable contributions of Arab Americans to our Nation and recommit o'iirselves to the timeless work of making sure that all people have the opporhinity to achieve the American Dream; and
"'ffl0eteab, ours is a Nation shaped by the immigrant's heart, and generations of brave and hopeful people from across all countries, including from the Arab world, have woven their unique heritages, customs, and talents into the tapestry of America. Today, the achievements of Arab Americans are reflected in the arts and sciences; in businesses and faith communities; in classrooms and hospitals; and in police stations, firehouses, and every branch of the military. Arab Americans are also proudly serving throughout the Biden Administration, bringing a diversity of expertise that helps make this country stronger, more prosperous, and more just.
Sadly, we also recognize that, even as Arab Americans enrich our Nation, many continue to face prejudice, bigotry, and violence - a stain on our collective conscience. Hate must have no safe harbor in this coiu"itry. We must affirm that sentiment again and again. That is why, on his first day in office, President Biden issued the Proclamation on Ending Discriminatory Bans on Entry to The United States, which harmed the Arab American community," and "established a new interagency goup to coordinate the Federal Government's efforts to fight antisemitism and Islamophobia, which impact Arab Americans. The Biden Administration is also exploring adding a new data category to the census for Middle Eastern and North African communities as part of our vital work to ensure that Arab Americans are seen, valued, consulted, and properly considered as new policy is made.
The United States is the only Nation in the world founded on an idea - the idea that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equany throughout our lives. This Arab American Heritage Month, let us all strive to honor our fundamental values and advance equity and opporhinity for all people, affirming once again that diversity is our country's greatest strength." JFlofm, t0erefore, be it tes'oibtb that s, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim April 2023 as
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and call upon all Alamedans to learn more about the history, culture, and achievements of Arab Americans. !
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Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor
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