CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2023–2024 REGULAR SESSION

Senate Concurrent Resolution
No. 50

Introduced by Senators Umberg and Wahab
(Coauthor: Senator Newman)

April 10, 2023

Relative to Arab American Heritage Month.


LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST


SCR 50, as introduced, Umberg. Arab American Heritage Month.
This measure would proclaim April 2023 to be Arab American Heritage Month and commend Arab Americans for their significant contributions to the success of California.
Fiscal Committee: NO  
WHEREAS, Since migrating to America, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also advancing examples of citizenship and public service; and
WHEREAS, For over a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to every aspect of American society, including in medicine, law, business, education, technology, government, military service, and culture; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans brought with them to America their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed, all of which have added strength to our great democracy; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans have also enriched our society by sharing in the entrepreneurial American spirit that makes our nation free and prosperous; and
WHEREAS, The history and experiences of Arab Americans in the United States remains neglected, and is plagued with misconceptions, bigotry, and anti-Arab hate in the forms of crimes and speech; and
WHEREAS, Arab American issues, such as civil rights abuses, harmful stereotyping, and bullying must be combated through education and awareness; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans join all Americans in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels safe; and
WHEREAS, The incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped to build a better nation; and
WHEREAS, California is home to a unique area known as “Little Arabia” in the City of Anaheim, which is a cultural and business destination for Arab Americans and Americans of diverse backgrounds to attain a sense of belonging, community, and opportunity; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims the month of April 2023 to be Arab American Heritage Month and commends Arab Americans for their significant contributions to the success of California; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.