We are grateful for the attendees and organizational partners who came together on Friday, March 6, to celebrate our near half-century of service to the community and the work of individuals who have impacted others in lasting and meaningful ways.
This year’s Dinner reflected on the organization’s many achievements From the Neighborhood to the Nation, while paying tribute to the heritage and important contributions of Arab Americans. To honor Women’s History Month, the program centered on the empowerment of women in the Detroit area and nationwide, specifically within marginalized communities.
"I have a word for young women. Success is not a straight line, nor is it a smooth ride. Once in a while, you’ll stumble, and you’ll meet people who will tell you that you are not good enough, who will try to demean you because of your gender, ethnicity, or religious background. But please, don’t let them. Remember: you are smart, beautiful, and competent, and you will accomplish whatever you set your mind to. You are our future, and you fill my heart with joy and pride." - Dr. Anan Ameri
An audience of 2,000 guests - including local, state and national officials, as well as leaders from government, business, labor and nonprofit organizations - gathered to honor the Arab American of the Year, Dr. Anan Ameri, and her dedication to social justice, immigrant rights and uplifting and preserving our community’s stories.
“Dr. Ameri is a fearless and bold visionary.” said ACCESS CEO Hassan Jaber. “She is the personification of ACCESS’s vision for a just and equitable society, and her work within our community is truly revolutionary. It is most fitting that we honor her this year, during Women’s History Month, as we celebrate and uplift the women who have left an indelible mark on our world.”
As the founding director of the Arab American National Museum, Dr. Ameri secured the institution’s Smithsonian Affiliation—making it the only Arab American organization in the network—as well as an American Alliance of Museums accreditation. An outspoken advocate for gender equity and human rights, Dr. Ameri’s recognition as an integral and influential community leader led to her being inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 2016. CLICK HERE to watch the video about Dr. Ameri that played during the event.
The evening also featured entertainment by the Detroit Women’s Chorus, who brought the house down with an inspirational performance that showed the strength of empowered women using their voices to create social change. Speakers also included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Senator Gary Peters, and Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, with Gerald Smith, President of GW Smith & Associates, acting as emcee for the evening. CLICK HERE to see photos from the event.
We salute the many sponsors who help to make the event possible, including event Underwriting Sponsors: Arab American Pharmacist Association, Comerica, DTE Foundation, Ford and TCF Bank.
We will see you at next year’s Annual Dinner, celebrating our 50th anniversary!
