Congresswoman Tlaib Hosts Arab American Heritage Luncheon

Adorned with intricate murals, sophisticated sculptures and boundless resources, the U.S. Library of Congress is one of the nation’s most beautiful public institutions. Equally as beautiful as the building’s structure, is the space it holds for Americans to convene. In celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month, U.S. Congresswoman, Rashida Tlaib, reserved the Library’s Members’ Room to host a luncheon which convened Arab American leaders. QAIC’s executive director and representatives of both our programs and communications team were honored to attend this inaugural event.  

Congresswoman Tlaib used the opportunity to share President Biden’s proclamation declaring April as National Arab American Heritage Month, as well as to recognize some of the many contributions Arab Americans have made to American society. The congresswoman was not the only member of congress to share in the afternoon’s celebrations. Remarks emphasizing the importance of Arab Americans were made by Representatives Jackson, Hoyer, Lieu, Aguilar, Sherman, Wasserman Schultz, McCollum, Jackson Lee, and more. Co-Founders of the Arab America Foundation, Warren and Amal David, spoke, sharing in the historic significance of the recognition of National Arab American Heritage Month.  

Specialists at the Library of Congress treated guests to a curated selection of texts which are written by, or featuring, Arab Americans. Guests brought and displayed artifacts representing their Arab origins. To represent Qatar and the larger Arab and Islamic worlds, QAIC brought parts of our olfactory alphabet experience, as well as copies of our publication, A2Q, which is proudly registered by the Library of Congress 

Representative Tlaib’s luncheon proved to be a fantastic celebration of the diversity of the Arab American community. QAIC looks forward to continuing to advance and amplify the narratives of Arab Americans, with a special emphasis on artists.