HJ0065 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HJ0065 LRB103 40122 LAW 71784 r

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, It is appropriate and right to celebrate the diversity of cultures and heritages, as such celebrations serve as a reminder that, despite our differing backgrounds, everyone in Illinois is bound by a common hope for a better and more inclusive future for our children; and

WHEREAS, The Arab American community has a long and integral history in the United States; 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 build a better State and nation for all; and

WHEREAS, For over a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to every aspect of American society, including medicine, law, business, technology, government, and culture; and

WHEREAS, The history of Arab Americans in American life often remains neglected and has been riddled with misunderstanding and bigotry; and

WHEREAS, People of Middle Eastern descent began migrating to the United States in significant numbers in the 1800s; today, it is estimated that the current population of Arab Americans is approximately four million people; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that we declare the month of April 2024 as Arab American Heritage Month in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize and celebrate the contributions to cultural diversity, economic growth, and the overall development of our State and nation made by the Arab American community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage all Illinoisans and their families to learn about and celebrate the contributions of Arab Americans to Illinois and the United States.