NASPGHAN is proud to recognize April as Arab American Heritage Month and acknowledge the contributions of all our members with Arab heritage, regardless of nationality.
The Arab world is made up of 22 countries that span North Africa to West Asia with great diversity. The three most common religions are Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Hospitality, generosity, faith, family, and community are key pillars of Arab culture, and children often become caretakers for their parents.
It is estimated there are 3.7 million Arab Americans. There are an estimated 1.2 million Arab immigrants in the US, doubled since the year 2000. The Biden administration has successfully added a new category to the 2030 US census so that Arab Americans will be counted. It is called Middle Eastern or North African (MENA). Previously Arab Americans would need to choose White or Other.
Arab America and the Arab America Foundation launched the National Arab American Heritage Month initiative in 2017. President Biden recognizes the month of April as National Arab American Heritage Month with a special letter each year. Congress, the U.S. Department of State, and 45 state governors issued proclamations commemorating the initiative in 2022.
To learn more, visit the following sources:
Arab America Foundation
American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)
NPR: What Race are Middle Eastern, North African People?
