[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 43 (Wednesday, March 4, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF ANAN AMERI AS SHE IS NAMED THE 2020 ARAB AMERICAN OF 
                                THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 4, 2020

  Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Anan Ameri as 
she is named the 2020 Arab American of the Year by ACCESS. Dr. Ameri's 
lifetime of community service and activism is worthy of commendation, 
and we are proud to recognize her achievements today.
  Anan Ameri is a pillar of Washtenaw County. For over forty years, she 
has dedicated her career to advocating for social justice and equity, 
upholding immigrant rights, and preserving Arab American stories. Dr. 
Ameri, an author, educator, and activist, is especially known in our 
community as the founding director for the Arab American National 
Museum. Thanks to her steadfast leadership and revolutionary vision, 
she secured the museum's Smithsonian affiliation, making it the only 
Arab American organization in the prestigious network. In addition, Dr. 
Ameri is the national president of the Palestine Aid Society of America 
and was inducted to Michigan's Hall of Fame for her extraordinary 
efforts in 2016.
  Today, we celebrate Anan Ameri for her lifetime of service to her 
community. Born in Damascus, Syria and raised in Amman, Jordan, Dr. 
Ameri understands the daily trials and tribulations immigrants 
experience. As such, she has advocated for their voices and continues 
to fight to ensure their rights are upheld. Beyond her career in 
activism, she also has served as a mentor to young women. She has 
nurtured women to pursue their dreams, strive for excellence, and 
embrace their heritage. Dr. Ameri truly embodies the hopes and dreams 
of immigrants coming to America and has made a difference in our 
Michigan community. Her years of service have impacted the lives of 
many, and her continued dedication provides a lasting example for what 
we should all endeavor to accomplish--to effect change, be 
compassionate community members, and do all we can to make a difference 
in the world.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Anan 
Ameri. Her decades of selfless service make her a deserving recipient 
of the Arab American of the Year Award. I am grateful for her lasting 
impact and wish her continued success in the years ahead.

                          ____________________