Second Arab -American Day- Washington, D.C. December 4, 2013

LEAGUE OF ARAB STATES
Washington, D.C.
CELEBRATES THE SECOND ANNUAL

ARAB- AMERICAN DAY RECEPTION
At Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center

Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 5, 2013… The League of Arab States, in coordination with the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Washington D.C., hosted the Second Annual Arab-American Day at the atrium of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (RRBITC) in Washington, D.C.

This memorable event (December 4 – official date) was attended by more than 400 guests, including 12 Arab Ambassadors, the Ambassador of Brazil, high ranking officials from the World Bank, Congress, State Department, distinguished American friends, Arab-Americans representing their communities, and Arab-American organizations in the U.S.A. The guests were feted with traditional Arabic instrumental music, representing Arab countries and a selection of Arabic food and pastries.

Among the speakers were Andrew Gelfuso, Vice President of RRBITC; Mohammed Al- Hussaini
Al-Sharif, Ambassador of the Arab League; Ambassador Richard Schmeirer, on behalf of the Honorable Secretary of State, John F. Kerry; Hunaina
Al- Mughairy, Ambassador of Oman to the United States, on behalf of the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Washington, D.C., and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the Honorable Raymond “Ray” LaHood.
In welcoming the guests, Mr. Gelfuso said, “We are honored to host this important celebration of U.S.-Arab American culture and look forward to collaborating with the League of Arab States in the future.”

Ambassador Al Sharif said, “Today, Arab-Americans are an important component of the diverse social, ethnic, and religious mosaic of this great nation. Their achievements are reflected in the leadership positions many of them have acquired as Senators, Congressmen, Ambassadors, Generals, Mayors, and scientists, to name just a few.”
Ambassador Al-Mughairy of Oman added, “Over the eight years of my tenure in Washington D.C, I have witnessed firsthand how Arab-Americans make a difference in every field. I have met with distinguished artists, great politicians, talented athletes, brave soldiers, activists, & business leaders; many of whom are among us here tonight retelling the story of success & achievement.”
Referring to the Arab-American contributions, Ambassador Schmierer said, “As a career diplomat with long service in the Arab World, I can attest first hand to the political, cultural, artistic, educational, and scientific contributions that these communities have made to the American fabric.” On the cooperation between the US and the Arab League, Ambassador Schmierer pointed out that ” Under the Memorandum of Understanding between the State Department & the Arab League signed last year, we have launched a number of innovative cooperative efforts, including in the areas of humanitarian response and education. Our partnership with the Arab League has also been important in our efforts to achieve Middle East Peace.”

Honorable Raymond “Ray” LaHood touted the caring nature of the Arab-Americans, “We help each other, we help other Communities—that’s the way we are!” He strongly commended the Arab League for organizing this event which represents a rare opportunity for Arab-Americans to meet each other in the capital of the U.S.A.

The Ambassador of the Arab League in Washington, D.C., seized the opportunity to pay tribute to Ms. Lily Bandak, an Arab-American artist with disability, who enjoys a long history of successful talent in photography. The Ambassador acknowledged Ms. Bandak’s courage & struggle by commenting “your story reflected remarkable strength & great efforts that you exerted for survival to become a productive American citizen. This represents an inspiration not only to the physically disabled but to those who are not.”

Thirty notable Arab-American artists participated in an exhibit of 50 paintings & a few selected artistic photos – all provided an exciting cultural & educational highlight to the evening. Twenty artists, representing twelve Arabic countries, were present for the occasion. They were able to meet and exchange views with many of their fellow Arab-Americans from an array of American states.

The Ambassador of the Arab League received a Governor’s Citation from Governor Martin O’Malley of the State of Maryland, in recognition of the Arab League’s dedication to the Arab-American community in the United States.