Proclaiming April 2025 to be Arab American Heritage Month.

Proclamation Whereas: for over a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of society: in medicine, law, business, education, technology, government, military service and culture; and Whereas: since migrating to the United States, and the City of Somerville, people of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants; and Whereas: they brought with them to the United States their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that have added strength to our great democracy; and Whereas: Arab Americans have also enriched our society by sharing in the entrepreneurial American spirit that makes our nation free and prosperous; and Whereas: the history of Arab Americans in the U.S. remains neglected and defaced by misconceptions, bigotry, and anti-Arab hate in forms of crimes and speech; and Whereas: issues, such as civil rights abuse, harmful stereotyping, and bullying must be combated in the forms of education and awareness; and Whereas: they join all Americans in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels safe; and Whereas: the City of Somerville stands against all forms of hate including Anti-Arab bias and Islamophobia and is committed to standing with Arab American residents of Somerville and the Commonwealth; and Whereas: the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped us build a better nation. Now therefore be it known to all those present that the Mayor of the City of Somerville respectfully proclaims April 2025 to be Arab American Heritage Month. Proclaimed on this 24th day of April, 2025 by Katjana Ballantyne Mayor