As we approach the end of the year, it’s a time for reflection and celebration of the milestones we’ve achieved in building a thriving Arab American community in Southern California. Our 2023 impact report is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our advocates, supporters, and community members. Let’s take a moment to highlight some of the key victories and set our sights on the opportunities that lie ahead.
Victories and Achievements
Preserving the Arabic Language Program at Western High School
A group of Western High School students, alongside education officials, successfully preserved the only Arabic language public school program in the area.
This victory is a testament to the importance of preserving and promoting the Arabic language and culture within our educational institutions.
Defending Palestine in the Ethnic Studies Curriculum
Our advocacy efforts helped keep content related to Palestine in the Ethnic Studies curriculum at the Santa Ana school district.
We mobilized dozens of community members and activists to attend and speak at the Santa Ana Unified School District meeting to show support for the district’s approved Ethnic Studies curricula that includes an accurate narrative of Palestinian history.
This achievement is a step forward in ensuring that the rich history and experiences of the Palestinian community are accurately represented in educational settings.
Celebrating Anaheim’s Little Arabia
After two decades of community engagement and advocacy, the Anaheim City Council finally voted to formally designate a portion of Brookhurst Street as “Little Arabia”. In 2023, we participated in the Brookhurst Corridor Advisory Committee and developed policy recommendations for the city related to public improvements, funding, and more.
In addition we celebrated the first anniversary of the historic designation of Little Arabia on August 23rd.
Mobilizing Advocates for Change
Throughout the year, we mobilized over 8,000 advocates to take action on various issues, including health equity for Arab Americans and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.. The collective voice of our advocates has been instrumental in driving positive change and raising awareness on critical issues.
Looking Ahead: Building Community InfluencePower
As we look to the future, we are committed to continuing our efforts to build Arab American community power and influence in Southern California. Here are some of the key initiatives we will focus on in the coming year:
Engaging Arab American Voters
We aim to reach at least 60,000 Arab Americans and mobilize them to vote in the upcoming 2024 elections. Political engagement is crucial in shaping the future and amplifying the voices of our community.
New and Improved Little Arabia District
After months of working closely with the City of Anaheim and their hired consultant on a study of Little Arabia and the Brookhurst Corridor, the city is considering adopting some of these recommendations.
In the upcoming year, we will continue working with the City of Anaheim towards implementing the recommendations related to physical improvements, arts and culture, events and festivals, and more. We will also work to ensure the ‘Little Arabia’ freeway sign is up in 2024.
Advocating for Justice and Ceasefire in Gaza
We plan to organize workshops to train community members to advocate for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and justice for Palestinians. Our commitment to global justice remains unwavering.
Championing Health Equity and Inclusion for Arab Americans
We will continue to advocate for data and health equity and the inclusion of Arab Americans in the Census. In the upcoming year we will work with federal, state, and local partners and government representatives towards these goals. These efforts are essential in ensuring that our community’s needs are recognized and addressed.
Community Collaboration and Improvement
Our collaboration with the City of Anaheim towards implementing recommended improvements and ensuring the ‘Little Arabia’ freeway sign is up in 2024 reflects our dedication to enhancing the community’s infrastructure and visibility.
Empowering Our Community
The impact of our collective efforts extends far beyond the achievements themselves. It’s about the empowerment and unity of the Arab American community in Southern California. The stories, voices, and resilience of our community members are at the heart of everything we do.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
As we conclude this year and set our sights on the opportunities ahead, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of the Arab American community in Southern California. Your support, engagement, and commitment are invaluable in driving positive change and progress. We are immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and we are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that the coming year will bring. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey.
The end of year impact report is not just a reflection of the past, but a roadmap for the future. We invite you to continue your support and donate a tax-deductible gift, whether it’s $60, $600, or $6000, every dollar will help us build a stronger, more empowered Arab American community in Southern California.
Let’s build a better future!
We rely on your generosity to sustain our work and build a better future for the Arab American community. Thank you for your ongoing support!
