Gov. Gavin Newsom of California has proclaimed April as Arab American Heritage Month. This announcement comes amid anti-Israel demonstrations on college campuses across the country. The protests call for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as for U.S. government divestment from Israeli companies.
Hamas, designated as a terrorist group by the U.S., launched an attack on Israel in 2023, resulting in casualties and hostages. In response, Israel carried out a self-defense operation in Gaza.
Newsom emphasized the contributions of Arab Americans to society, noting that California is home to a significant Arab American population. Cities like Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and New York have large Arab American communities.
Some Arab Americans expressed discontent with President Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly after a foreign aid package allocated a large sum to Israel. This has led to a sense of betrayal among some Arab American voters, particularly in Michigan.
The ongoing conflict has led to concerns about famine in Gaza, affecting Palestinians in the region.
