April is National Arab American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the diverse culture and historical contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have made lasting impacts in fields like diplomacy, science, technology, art, and culture (Smithsonian). Explore their history and heritage at your community library.
What to Read
The Arabic Quilt - The beautiful story of diversity follows a young girl from Egypt named Kanzi whose most treasured reminder of her old home provides a pathway for acceptance in her new one.
Salma Makes A Home - Charming, creative Salma takes on big feelings with even bigger ideas as she navigates life in a new country, Syrian identity, family changes and new friendships in this engaging and heartfelt early chapter book.
Ida in the Middle - Ida, a Palestinian-American girl, eats a magic olive that takes her to the life she might have had in her parents' village near Jerusalem.
Not the Girls You're Looking for - A Muslim-American teen goes into denial mode about her role in an out-of-control party that occurred during Ramadan, a situation that escalates until she incurs damage that is harder to repair, forcing her to come to terms with her true self.
Middle Eastern Sweets - An authentic, indulgent collection of dessert recipes for all tastes and occasions from Lebanese author Salma Hage, one of the Middle East's most-loved home cooks.
Arab American Blues - In 1960s New York City, Michael must confront a sudden personal tragedy and reckon with what it means to be a dutiful son, an Arab American, and an individual seeking freedom.
But You Don't Look Arab - Emmy Award-winning international journalist Hala Gorani weaves stories from her time as a globe-trotting correspondent and anchor with her own lifelong search for identity as the daughter of Syrian immigrants in this autobiography.
What to Watch
Arab Heritage Month Collection on Kanopy
Celebrate the rich history and culture of Arab Americans this April with Kanopy’s inspiring collection. From compelling documentaries to engaging narratives, Kanopy offers a wide range of titles that explore both the rich history and contemporary experiences of Arab Americans. Stream the collection now: kanopy.com/category/78249, opens a new window.
Framed: How Film and TV Shape Our Perception of Arabs and Arab Culture
In this Sno-Isle Libraries program, Zaki Hamid discusses the stereotypes of Arabs perpetuated in film and TV, and highlights the progress being made in the past few years.
Learn More
Explore Sno-Isle Libraries' online resources for articles, biographies, primary documents, and media on Arab American history and culture.
- Arab American Heritage Month | GALE in Context: High School - Learn more about Arab American Heritage Month with online articles, biographies, media and more.
- Arab Americans | GALE in Context: Elementary - Find age-appropriate books, biographies, magazine and news articles about noteworthy Arab Americans throughout history.
- Arab Americans | GALE in Context: High School - Browse videos, audio, biographies, magazine and news articles about noteworthy Arab Americans throughout history.
- Arab Americans | GALE in Context: U.S. History - Explore articles, videos, audio and other primary documents about the Arab American community throughout history.
- Arab Americans | World Book Student - Read the entry on Arab Americans including history, demographics and interactive media.
Arab American Organizations, Advocacy & Cultural Institutions
These national organizations support Arab American communities through civil rights advocacy, policy research, philanthropy, and cultural preservation. They provide resources, educational initiatives, and opportunities to engage with Arab American history, heritage, and community development.
- Arab America Foundation: Leads the national recognition of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM) each April, celebrating the rich history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans across the U.S. The organization promotes educational initiatives, community events, and public awareness campaigns to honor Arab American heritage.
- Arab America: A national media platform dedicated to promoting Arab heritage, culture, and contributions in the U.S. through news, events, and educational content.
- National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations (NCUSAR): A nonprofit, non-governmental organization that provides educational programs, policy analysis, and exchange opportunities to strengthen U.S.-Arab relations.
- Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP): A national community foundation that strengthens Arab American giving through grantmaking, donor support, and leadership development. As part of ACCESS, CAAP empowers individuals and organizations to create lasting change.
- Arab American National Museum: The first and only museum in the U.S. dedicated to preserving and sharing Arab American history and contributions. It offers exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that highlight Arab American experiences.
