ADC Press Release:
1500 Attend ADC Michigan Banquet, Capacity Crowd Addressed by Queen Rania

Washington, DC, Oct. 16 -- The Michigan Annual Banquet of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) was held last night, October 15, and attended by capacity crowd of 1500. The highlight of the evening was a keynote address by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al-Abdullah. The Queen of Jordan, whose participation in the ADC Banquet marked her first Royal visit to Michigan, was introduced to speak by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and focused her message on unity and the importance of banding together to support the Arab World.

"Arab nations are at a crossroads and in need of partners to move forward," Queen Rania said. She went on to explain, "Dearborn exhibits a spirit of solidarity that has bridged historic divides." "You are thriving by pulling together," she explained. The Queen praised ADC's work by stating, "The ADC has been at the vanguard of fighting discrimination. You've merged the best of your Arab heritage with the freedom and creativity of the American soul."

Other highlights from the event included remarks from ADC President Mary Rose Oakar, who spoke of the importance of lending support to ADC during these critical times. Mistress of ceremonies and Detroit Channel 7 News Anchor Diana Lewis echoed former Congresswoman Oakar's words in her remarks to the guests.

The award's ceremony included a Humanitarian Service award to Mrs. Najah Bazzy, a Building Bridges award to Father Rani Abdulmasih, a Community Service award to Dr. Yahya Basha and a Media award to the Arab American News. ADC Michigan Director Imad Hamad also received an unexpected Civil Rights award from Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano for his efforts to promote tolerance and understanding in Michigan.

ADC thanks all banquet attendees and the sponsors who contributed generously to the event. "We salute our committed supporters, who have stood alongside ADC during these challenging times," Imad Hamad said. "We owe our success to all of the volunteers, members and sponsors who have solidified ADC's backbone in Michigan and paved the way for us as a leading civil rights organization. My sincere appreciation and gratitude go out especially to my committed staff in the ADC Michigan Office, namely Ms. Rana Abbas, who has worked tirelessly and contributed tremendously to our success."

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See Pictures of Kalamazoo Chapter at Michigan Annual Banquet - October 15, 2003  Click Here

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