In 2017, Arab American Heritage Month began as a grassroots movement to bring recognition and solidarity to our Arab American communities. In 2021 it was officially recognized by the President. It should be noted Arab Americans have been part of the United States history since the 1500s when Estebanico Azemmouri landed in the U.S. in 1527 considered the first Arab American. We highly recommending visiting the Arab American National Museum which has a great exhibit about the history of Arab Americans and their contributions in many fields, plus offers beautiful educational resources and other art events supporting the diverse & amazing Arab American community.
A note from our artistic director, Aubre Hill:
“I am not Arab American, and I know sometimes people get confused by my involvement and dedication to political activism and education here. The short of it is I found my home and passion in “bellydance” in college. While I earned my degree in zoology & chemistry, Middle Eastern dance was taking over my life in the most beautiful ways. I started traveling to learn more, meeting more people & artists, working more exclusively in Arab American communities, I got involved and invested. And then 9/11 happened. Over night I found my voice in a way I never thought possible. My art became a calling for advocacy. As a Japanese American whose grandmother was interned during World War II, the type of scapegoating & growing hate was too familiar. It was visceral. I now direct one of the few pan Arab dance companies, teach decolonized dance and movement, and advocate daily for our collective liberation. None of us are free until all of us are free.”
This month, we are excited to support local events in our Arab American communities, listen to their stories & voices, support wherever we can, and daily put pressure on our government for a ceasefire & FREE FALASTIN!