[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 71 (Wednesday, May 1, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E520]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 1, 2019

  Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate April as National Arab 
American Heritage Month to recognize the tremendous contributions Arab 
Americans have made to our great nation. Arab Americans have been, and 
continue to be, an invaluable part of our American life.
  Arab American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the 
accomplishments of people in the United States with Middle Eastern 
roots as well as for the public to become informed about the history of 
Arab Americans in the U.S.
  Arab Americans are among the most loyal and patriotic Americans and 
have positively impacted communities throughout America with 
contributions to the medical field, agriculture sector, law, business, 
education, the entertainment industry, politics and beyond.
  While celebrating their rich cultural heritage and embracing 
resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, 
and diversity in faith and creed, Arab Americans have added strength to 
our democracy.
  While many unfairly perceive Arab Americans as unknown or unfamiliar, 
Arab Americans first began to arrive on American shores in the late 
1800s. About half of the estimated 3,700,000 Arab Americans living in 
the United States were born in the U.S., according to the 2000 U.S. 
Census and the Arab American Institute.
  Arab Americans join all citizens in the desire to see a peaceful and 
diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels 
safe. Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month allows us to promote 
public education, awareness, and policies that are culturally competent 
when describing, discussing, or addressing the impacts of being Arab 
American in all aspects of American society.
  Madam Speaker, it is my honor to represent the Arab American 
constituents in my district, many of whom I call friends, and to 
recognize the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans 
who have helped us build a better nation.

                          ____________________