#United States #Chicago #Cook County #Maria Pappas #Arab American

Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month

On April 29, 2026, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas held a special ceremony in honor of Arab American Heritage Month at her office located at 118 N Clark Street, Chicago. The event recognized over two dozen notable leaders from various sectors including business, civic engagement, politics, and religious institutions who have made significant contributions to the community.

The ceremony began at 2 p.m. and featured the presentation of Certificates of Excellence to honorees, highlighting their impact on the cultural and economic landscape of Cook County. This initiative aimed to showcase the pivotal role that Arab Americans, numbering over 180,000 in the region, play in enriching the community through their diverse contributions ranging from business and healthcare to arts and politics.

Treasurer Pappas expressed her appreciation, stating, "The contributions made by Arab Americans in Cook County have been invaluable, from advancements in science and technology to the rich culinary traditions that enhance our local culture. This celebration is a vital recognition of their commitment to social justice and the ongoing fight for civil rights."

The list of honorees represented a broad spectrum of the Arab American community, reflecting diversity within leadership roles. Among those celebrated were:

• - Sheikh Fahmy Hossein Abdelkawy, Imam and Resident Scholar at the Islamic Center of Wheaton.
• - Rev. Fr. Joseph Hector Abouid, Priest from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.
• - Fatima Abu Dyab, DJ and Event Curator from Bazz Events.
• - Dr. Ruba Abuhashish, Graduate Program Specialist at Concordia University.
• - Mohommad Ahmad, Broker at Suntrust Insurance Agency.
• - Leaders from various sectors including law, education, community advocacy, and law enforcement also received recognition.

Honorees such as Sawsan Alsawi, Principal at ICCI Academy, and Dr. Jamila Omar, an educator and community advocate, exemplify the rich contributions this community brings in the educational sphere. The event also spotlighted entrepreneurs like Khaled Grainawi, owner of Baladi Fresh Market, demonstrating the economic vitality seeded in diverse enterprises.

This event not only commemorated individuals but also reinforced Cook County's commitment to honoring multiculturalism and inclusiveness. As Pappas noted, the event serves as a crucial reminder of the collective efforts that foster a more just and equitable society.

Through such recognitions, Cook County illustrates how celebrating diversity strengthens communal bonds and enhances the area's cultural fabric.

The gathering concluded on a joyous note, encouraging attendees to continue advocating for community service and engagement. As more events are planned throughout the year, this celebration of Arab American Heritage Month stands as a hallmark of unity, minority recognition, and the promotion of appreciation for varied cultural heritages across Cook County.