A purple banner with the words Arab American Heritage Month 2026 written in a flowing font.

Celebrating Arab American Resilience and Diversity

Welcome Message

The President of the United States officially declared April as Arab American Heritage Month in 2022, and Western has been recognizing it since 2024.

Due to the exclusion of Arabs in the US Census, our legacy and identity can be easily brushed over. The recognition of Arab American Heritage Month is important because it honors our community’s rich heritage and numerous contributions to society. As many of us deal with the rise of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim rhetoric in the US, in addition to the unrest and danger many of our home countries are faced with, now more than ever it is important to uplift and celebrate the members of our community. With a mix of educational and joyous events, we hope you join us this April to not only learn about and advocate for Arab Americans but to spread joy, because joy is resistance. 
- Arab Student Association Board Members

Events

Arab Identity Lunch & Learn

Poster with tan background and blue letters advertising the lunch and learn about Arab identity.

April 9th | 12-1pm | Viking Union 735

Focusing on what it means to be Arab, the Arab Diaspora, and the importance of recognizing Arab American Heritage Month. Catered by Kebabji. 

"Severed" Film Screening

Advertisement for the Severed film with the protagonist standing next to sea

April 21st | 5-6:30pm | Academic West 210

Screening of the film "Severed" which focuses on building solidarity with Palestine through a disability justice lens. Collaboration with Disability Outreach Center and the Ethnic Studies Department.

Open Mic & Karaoke Night

Tan graphic with event details and a green/grey microphone in the center

April 24th | 4:30-6pm | Underground Coffeehouse

Open Mic and Karaoke night with the Employee Language Program and Arab Student Association.

Other Campus Events

Dining Halls

Come to enjoy the celebration of Arab American heritage month with recipes inspired by the cookbook Arabiyya by Reem Assil and enter to win your own copy of the cookbook!

April 7th: 11-4pm, Viking Commons
April 15th: 4-8pm, Ridgeway Commons
April 23rd: 4-8pm, Fairhaven Commons

Western Libraries

Display for Arab American Heritage Month

Display is all throughout April!
Book highlights can be found on their page.

Resources for Additional Learning

More Information

For up-to-date information and to see the full Arab American Heritage Month calendar, please visit the Centers Events & Updates site!

Western is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation, please contact the Ethnic Student Center at esc@wwu.edu