Title
Special Recognition proclaiming April 2024 as Arab American Heritage Month.
Body
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
WHEREAS, April was designated as Arab American Heritage Month in Illinois on December 14, 2018; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans have made valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of American society, including medicine, law, business, education, technology, government, military service, and culture; and
WHEREAS, tens of thousands of Arab Americans have served the United States through military service during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq after September 11, 2001; and
WHEREAS, the history of Arab Americans often remains neglected in America and has been riddled with misunderstanding and bigotry; and
WHEREAS, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture, strong work ethic, and dedication to education, while embracing the American spirit of opportunity and helping us build a better nation and Lake County for all; and
WHEREAS, there are approximately 450,000 people of Arab descent in Illinois; and
WHEREAS, the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped us create the America we know.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, that this County Board of Lake County, Illinois recognizes April 2024 as Arab American Heritage Month and appreciates the valuable contributions of Arab Americans to Lake County and American history.
DATED, at Waukegan, Illinois, on April 9, 2024.