Arab American Heritage Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia is deeply enriched by the diversity of its residents, and Virginia is proud to be home to a large and thriving Arab American population; and

WHEREAS, for over a century, Arab American men and women have played an important role in shaping, advancing, and enriching the Commonwealth by making extensive contributions to all areas of life including government, business, arts and sciences, medicine, law enforcement, technology, and the military; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans have also enhanced our society by sharing in the entrepreneurial American spirit that makes our nation free and prosperous; and

WHEREAS, since migrating to the United States, Arab Virginians have shared their abundant culture and traditions with neighbors and friends; and

WHEREAS, they brought with them their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that have added to our country; and

WHEREAS, during Arab American Heritage Month, it is important to learn about key issues and priorities within the Arab American community and combat harmful stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination; and

WHEREAS, Arab American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the great pride and vibrancy of the over 81,000 Arab Americans in Virginia whose abilities and contributions strengthen the Spirit of Virginia;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize April 2024, as ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations