SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation declaring April 2023 as “Arab American Heritage Month.”
The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below.
PROCLAMATION
California joins the nation in celebrating Arab American Heritage Month, an opportunity to lift up the profound and wide-ranging contributions of these vibrant communities in all facets of our society.
As home to more immigrants than any other state, California knows that our diversity is our greatest gift. Our state is fortunate to have the largest Arab American population in the country, with thriving communities in Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, and other parts of the state that trace their heritage across the Middle East and North Africa.
Whether they’ve called America home for many generations or are newly arrived, Arab Americans have enriched communities across the country and made an indelible impact. We are proud of, and grateful for, the immeasurable contributions Arab Americans have made to literature, science, medicine, business, arts and entertainment, government, and in positions of leadership at all levels.
As we celebrate their many achievements, we also recognize the shameful discrimination and xenophobia the Arab American community faces. We must rededicate ourselves to rejecting hate and embracing inclusion for all Californians.
During Arab American Heritage Month, I urge all Californians to join me in celebrating the past, present and future contributions of this community to our California story.
NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim April 2023 as “Arab American Heritage Month” in the State of California.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 28th day of April 2023.
GAVIN NEWSOMGovernor of California
ATTEST:SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.Secretary of State
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