Cleveland is home to a large community of Arab Americans who enrich the region by sharing their culture and heritage in neighborhoods across The Land. You can appreciate Arab American traditions, food, arts and more when visiting local businesses and restaurants.
We asked Omar Kurdi, a Jordanian American and Cleveland resident, to tell us more about his go-to places and sights to explore whether you’re celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month or just looking for a great place to grab Shawarma (Looking at you, Little Arabia’s West Town Village Market.)
Omar, CEO of Friends for Life and Co-Founder of the Arab Americans of Cleveland – Young Professionals Network, is very passionate about the arts and co-founded Masrah Cleveland Al-Arabi, a theatre company within Cleveland Public Theatre that aims to connect with the Arabic-speaking communities in Cleveland.
Can you tell us about National Arab American Heritage Month?
Arab American Heritage used to be celebrated in various cities during the 1990s. The Arab America Foundation took it upon themselves to create a national campaign to celebrate Arab American Heritage during April 2017. The initiative gives Arab Americans the opportunity to celebrate their culture, heritage, arts, music, foods and accomplishments. It also gives non-Arabs an insight into the Arab American identity.
In 2021, National Arab American Heritage Month was recognized by President Joe Biden, the Department of State and 37 State governors. In total, proclamations were received from 45 states. Arab Americans have enriched American culture over the years and are now integral parts of society. Cleveland has a big community of Arab Americans from different regions and backgrounds. In April 2023, an official proclamation was issued from President Biden declaring April as National Arab American Heritage Month. This proclamation follows several state level proclamations, including Ohio.
Where can people go to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in Cleveland?
People interested in Arab American heritage can visit several local businesses and establishments to support, learn and engage. You can visit the Syrian Cultural Garden. It’s the only fully completed garden for an Arab country and a beautiful sight to see. There is also a Lebanese Cultural Garden.
If you feel like celebrating NAAHM at home, Netflix and Amazon Prime have a great selection of Arab films and series to enjoy. My recommendations:
PRIME: “Where Do We Go Now”, “Captain Abu Raed”, “Capernaum”, "Theeb" and “The Present”
NETFLIX: “Finding Ola”, “Al Rawabi School for Girls”, “Jinn” and "Farha"
Where can people go to learn more and support the Arab American community in Cleveland?
Cleveland’s greatest resource to learn about Arab Americans is Arab Americans. While we don’t have a specific museum or an information center, we have leaders, activists, businesses and establishments who offer great insight into different Arab American cultures. Arab Americans of Cleveland - Young Professionals Network is Cleveland's newest organization which aspires to become a resource to the community.
Arabs are known for their love of music, food and hospitality; you can experience that at Sky Mediterranean Lounge and Cuisine. You can enjoy delicious Arabic tea and flavors at Algebra Tea House. You can also try Koshari, Egypt’s national dish, at Urban Kitchen and Deli. If you're a woman and enjoy spas, Al Ameera Spa is a women-only Moroccan Spa and a must try. Many of the city's popular restaurants are Arab American owned: Taza, TownHall, Boaz Cafe, Aladdin’s Eatery, Summer Place, Rebol, Harry Buffalo and more.
Arabs love za'atar (thyme), and if you want to really celebrate Arab heritage, you should try Cleveland-made Terranean Herbs and Spices Za'atar Spread (plus their pita chips). They can be found in your local Heinen’s. If you’re looking for more Arab products, try these Arab American grocery stores: Mediterranean Market, Olive Tree, Holy Land Market and Aladdins’ Bakery are great options in addition to Assad's (featured above). You can also find fresh produce by Arab Americans in the West Side Market.