RESOLUTION FOR BOARD MEETING OF APRIL 21, 2022
Title
RESOLUTION sponsored by the Board of Commissioners recognizing April as National Arab American Heritage Month
Body
WHEREAS, the month of April is widely recognized as National Arab American Heritage Month. During this month, homage is paid to the contributions of Arab Americans and their rich heritage and diverse culture is celebrated. Celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month presents an opportunity to enhance understanding of the nuanced and varied aspects of Arab American heritage; and
WHEREAS, in celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month, numerous schools, cultural institutions, and government offices throughout the United States sponsor local events acknowledging the many contributions of Arab Americans; and
WHEREAS, people of Middle Eastern descent began migrating to the United States in significant numbers in the 1800’s, and today it is estimated that the current population of Arab Americans is approximately four million people; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans trace their origins back to twenty-two countries in the Middle East and North Africa and represent multiple faiths, cultures, and linguistic traditions; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans have achieved countless accomplishments, received innumerable awards, and made immeasurable contributions in many facets of society including the arts, business, law, medicine, science, and technology; and
WHEREAS, established in 2001, Arab American Family Services (AAFS) is a nonprofit organization that serves over thirty communities in the South Suburbs of Chicago by providing assistance with services for seniors, food assistance, mental health stability, immigration issues, and domestic violence services. AAFS celebrates local Arab American culture and contributions; and
WHEREAS, the Syrian Community Network (SCN) is a charitable organization that was founded in Chicago in 2015 in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. With the goal of creating a safe environment for arriving Syrian immigrants, SCN focused on assisting with education, economic stability, and legal immigration status. SCN currently offers assistance to anyone regardless of ethnicity, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation; and
WHEREAS, founded in 1985, the Arab-American Business & Professional Association (ABPA) is a nonprofit organization that empowers Arab-American small business owners and professionals by providing networking opportunities with local and international investors. Additionally, ABPA offers internship, professional development, and student ambassador opportunities to students to enhance their business comprehension; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, on behalf of ourselves and our staff, do hereby recognize April as National Arab American Heritage Month; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent Record of Proceedings of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and that a copy of same, suitably engrossed, be presented to Arab American Family Services, the Syrian Community Network, and the Arab-American Business & Professional Association.
Dated: April 21, 2022