[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 28, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1393]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        IN RECOGNITION OF THE ARAB AMERICAN CIVIL RIGHTS LEAGUE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2016

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Arab 
American Civil Rights League on the day of the organization's 5th 
annual Fight for Justice Gala. The ACRL plays an integral role in 
advocating on behalf of the constitutional and civil rights of Arab 
Americans through its legal and outreach efforts and continues to serve 
as a driving force toward meaningful change.
  The ACRL was founded in 2011 in Dearborn, Michigan to protect and 
advocate on behalf of the wider Arab American community. The 
organization acts as a conduit between Arab Americans and the media to 
ensure adequate and accurate representation on issues affecting the 
Arab American community. The ACRL is dedicated to combating negative 
stereotypes through education and outreach, and providing legal 
representation for individuals whose civil rights have been violated.
  The organization plays a vital role in addressing discrimination and 
helps shape public policy initiatives that protect and preserve Arab 
Americans' civil rights. ACRL also works to better the wider community 
through charitable efforts, including recent efforts to provide bottled 
water to families in Flint.
  The ACRL has effectively served the Arab American community at a time 
when the principles of religious tolerance and respect are under 
threat. The ACRL's efforts show that, in a time of uncertainty, there 
is far more that unites us than divides us. We must all come together 
to combat the most extreme elements of society while recognizing our 
common humanity.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the 
ACRL. The organization serves in the public interest through its anti-
discrimination initiatives, and it is my hope that it continues to be 
an effective advocate for the Arab American community.

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