20250SCR_004297CHP INTRODUCED 2025-03-19 PASSED_ASSEMBLY 2025-05-23 PASSED_SENATE 2025-04-21 ENROLLED 2025-05-27 CHAPTERED 2025-05-29 FILED 2025-05-29 2025 SCR CHP CHR 0 Introduced by Senator Umberg LEAD_AUTHOR SENATE Umberg Relative to Arab American Heritage Month. Arab American Heritage Month Arab American Heritage Month. This measure would proclaim April as Arab American Heritage Month and encourage citizens to join in the special observance. NO

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, Since migrating to America, people of Arab descent have shared their rich cultures and traditions with all in their communities, while demonstrating their commitment to citizenship and public service; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans brought with them to America a shared tradition of strong family values, academic achievement, and work ethic, along with a diversity in faith and creed that have enriched 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 continue to be neglected or defaced by harmful misconceptions, bigotry, structural racism, and anti-Arab sentiments in the forms of hate speech and other crimes; and

WHEREAS, Arab American issues, such as civil rights abuses, harmful stereotyping, and bullying must be confronted through actionable education and awareness initiatives; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans join with all Americans in the shared pursuit of a free and diverse democratic society, where every person is guaranteed equality and security; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans are unwavering in their dedication to supporting their families and friends in Palestine by organizing and advocating for aid and lasting peace in Gaza, demonstrating their commitments to justice and human rights, and advancing United States diplomatic relations in the Middle East and around the world; and

WHEREAS, The incredible 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 the Legislature hereby proclaims the month of April as Arab American Heritage Month and encourages our citizens to join us 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.