2025 Arab American Heritage Month Proclamation
California joins the nation in recognizing the month of April as Arab American Heritage Month.
As Governor Gavin Newsom wrote, “As home to more immigrants than any other state, California knows firsthand that our diversity is our greatest asset. Our state is fortunate to have the largest Arab American population in the country, with thriving communities in Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, and other parts of the state that trace their heritage across the Middle East and North Africa;” and
Arab immigrants and their descendants have enriched our nation and our state with their traditions, values, and diverse perspectives for more than a century, positively impacting every aspect of American society, from medicine, law, and business, to the arts, education, and public service, shaping the nation’s identity through their creativity, innovation, and hard work; and
The San Francisco Bay Area has long been home to a vibrant Arab American community, whose members have contributed to the cultural, economic, and social life of the region— founding businesses, establishing cultural and religious organizations, and contributing to the fields of art, technology, law, medicine,
education, and more; and
Arab American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to not only celebrate the invaluable role of Arab Americans in the Bay Area and around the country, but also to stand united in the ongoing fight against hate and discrimination, and to promote a culture of inclusivity, understanding, and mutual respect among all communities; and
By acknowledging and addressing anti-Arab discrimination, we can foster a more just and equitable society, and by recognizing the contributions of our Arab American neighbors, we honor the diversity and richness that we value in our island community;
During Arab American Heritage Month, we honor the past, present and future of this community in our California story and rededicate ourselves to ensuring the safety and belonging of Arab Americans across our state; and
Arab Americans join with all Americans in the shared pursuit of a free and diverse democratic society, where every person is guaranteed equality and security.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim April 2025 as “Arab American Heritage Month” in the City of Alameda and encourage all residents to learn more about the rich culture and traditions of Arab Americans by participating in the following activities presented by the Alameda Free Library:
Take-and-Make Arabic Style Mosaic Tile Kit:
Tuesday, April 1
West End Library - for kids ages 8 and up, and are available while supplies last
Arab Architecture Art Activity
Saturday, April 12, 2 - 3:30 pm
Leydecker Event Center - Presented in partnership with Museum of Children’s Arts for children ages 5 and up and their caregivers
Multimedia Presentation of Archival Materials from Librarians with Palestine Tuesday, April 29
Main Library, 5:30 pm
Signature: Date: