Anan Ameri: A Museum for Communication

The idea behind the Arab American National Museum is to show the extent to which Arab Americans are part of the fabric of US society.

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Filed under: Anan Ameri | Arab American National Museum | Dearborn, MI | Education | Finding Gaps | Non-profit

As explained by Anan Ameri (download 6.5 minute iPod compatible video, 35MB), the Arab American National Museum's founding director, the idea behind the museum is to show the extent to which Arab Americans are part of the fabric of US society. Arabs first came to America in 1528, and there were 50 Arabic newspapers in publication by 1938.

As mentioned previously, momentum for the museum began to build just before September 11, 2001. That event initially slowed movement toward the museum. However, when the American Association of Museums featured the museum in its 100th anniversary publication, it became clear that the museum would be a positive vehicle for communicating the Arab American story, a story which bears no relationship to 9/11.

The museum tells its story through exhibits:

• The courtyard exhibit sets the scene with a large map of the Arab world.
• Coming to America tells the immigration story.
• Living in America describes Arab American customs.
• Making an impact highlights Arab Americans who have gained significant recognition for their contributions.