Wishah was founded in 2003 by Mohammad Atta who was a member of the El-Funoun. Wishah's performances tell the story of Palestinian struggle and resilience from the steadfastness of political prisoners to the joy of community celebrations. The 20 member group aims to contribute to Palestinian cultural life by striving to preserve it from marginalization, inspire resistance, and advance Palestinian popular dancing.

"In Wishah, we believe that the popular dance, especially the Palestinian popular dance is not actually dancing for itself only. We tell the audience of the position of artists and civilians in the current situation of occupation." ~ Wishah

April is The National Arab American Heritage Month

PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, For over a century, Arab Americans have been making valuable contributions to virtually every aspect of American society: in medicine, law, business, technology, government, and culture; and

WHEREAS, since migrating to America, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants; and

WHEREAS, they brought with them to America their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that have added strength to our great democracy; and

WHEREAS, Arab Americans have also enriched our society by sharing in the opportunistic American spirit that makes our nation free and prosperous; and

WHEREAS, the history of Arab Americans in American life often remains neglected or defaced by misunderstanding, bigotry, and anti-Arab hate in the forms of crimes and speech; and

WHEREAS, Arab American issues, such as civil rights abuses, harmful stereotyping, and bullying must be combatted in the forms of education and awareness; and

WHEREAS, they join all Americans in the desire to see a peaceful and diverse society, where every individual is treated equally and feels safe; and

WHEREAS, the incredible contributions and heritage of Arab Americans have helped us build a better nation; and

NOW, THEREFORE I, (insert your name), Mayor/Superintendent/Representative of (insert your city here), celebrate the contributions Arab Americans have made to society, and do hereby claim April 2018 to be National Arab American Heritage Month in (insert your city here), and encourage all residents to join me in this special observance.