Senate Concurrent Resolution
No. 31
CHAPTER 67
Relative to Arab American Heritage Month.
[
Filed with
Secretary of State
July 09, 2021.
]
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
SCR 31, Newman.
Arab American Heritage Month.
This measure would proclaim the month of April 2021 as Arab American Heritage Month.
Digest Key
Fiscal Committee:
NO WHEREAS, The State of California proudly boasts the largest population of Arab Americans in the country, with a population of approximately 800,000 Californians of Arab heritage and descent; and
WHEREAS, For more than a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to almost every aspect of American society, including medicine, law, business, technology, government, and culture; and
WHEREAS, Since migrating to the United States, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples as model citizens and public servants; and
WHEREAS, Arab migrants to the United States brought with them their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that have added strength to our great democracy; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans have also enriched our society by embracing the American spirit of opportunity that makes our nation free and prosperous; and
WHEREAS, The history of Arab Americans in American life often remains neglected or defaced by misunderstanding, bigotry, and anti-Arab hate in the form of crimes and speech; and
WHEREAS, Issues currently affecting Arab Americans, such as civil rights abuses, harmful stereotyping, harassment, and bullying, must be combated by 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 immense contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped us build a better nation; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That California celebrates the countless contributions that Arab Americans have made to American society and the State of California, and that the Legislature therefore hereby proclaims the month of April 2021 to be Arab American Heritage Month in California and encourages all residents of this state to join in this special observance; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.