Recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month and celebrating the heritage and culture of Arab Americans in Philadelphia.

Recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month and celebrating the heritage and culture of Arab Americans in Philadelphia. WHEREAS, From April 1, 2025, through April 30, 2025, the United States celebrates Arab American Heritage Month; and WHEREAS, For over a century, Arab Americans have made valuable contributions to every aspect of American society, in medicine, law, business, technology, civic engagement, government and culture; and WHEREAS, Philadelphia was home to the first Arabic-language newspaper ever published in the U.S. in 1898, called Al-Hoda. The fact that Philadelphia is where the first Arabic-language newspaper was founded is emblematic of the rich history of the City’s Arab community; and WHEREAS, Saint Maron Lebanese Church in South Philadelphia was founded by Lebanese immigrants in 1892 establishing an enclave in the neighborhood for the Lebanese diaspora that exists to this day. Kensington also has a strong Arab population, particularly a Palestinian presence. Northeast Philadelphia is an area with many immigrants and refugees from Arab countries; and WHEREAS, Since migrating to the United States, people of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants; and WHEREAS, Arab Americans have brought with them to America their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that have added strength …