Dayton Metro Library Celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month

last updated 03/30/2023
Dayton Metro Library Celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month

Dayton Metro Library is pleased to partner with the Dayton Arab American Forum (DAFF) to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM).

Dayton Metro Library Celebrates National Arab American Heritage Month

UPDATED 4/6/23

Dayton Metro Library is pleased to partner with the Dayton Arab American Forum (DAFF) to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM). April is formally recognized as NAAHM, which honors the achievements of Arab Americans. DML and the DAAF celebrate by introducing a new program, creating a culture of openness and acceptance.

The Living Library Experience

The Living Library Experience will be held at the Main Library, in the Bassani Theater off Third, 3rd Floor, Tuesday, April 4, from 6-7:30 pm. To bridge communities and foster understanding, members of the DAAF will present themselves as Live Books. A moderated guest panel will candidly share their experiences of being Arab American, living in the U.S., their traditions, and challenges. Time will be allotted for patrons to submit questions.

Guest panelists for the evening include: Nada Elakad (moderator), Amel Alhaddad, Lamees Mubaslat, Youssef Elzein, Taha Alhadda, Leen Saleh, and Sandra Dubaisi. All ages are invited to attend. Registration is not required.

Additional NAAHM programs include:

Ramadan Coloring Sheets

Vandalia Branch, through Friday, April 21

Stop in during Library hours and decorate the Branch’s Juvenile Bulletin Board to help celebrate Ramadan. For Ages 3-12 

Spice Up: Lebanese Edition

Southeast Branch, through Saturday, April 29 or while supplies last

Challenge those taste buds and pick up a spice kit anytime during Library hours for this month’s international theme. Kits come with spice, a brochure, and a survey code. For Adults

Movie Night: Arab Heritage Edition

Miamisburg Branch, Saturday, April 1, 2-4 pm

DAFF is hosting a family movie night that explores the Arab culture. For All Ages 

Arabian Readings and Crafts

Main Library, Children’s Creativity Space, 1st Floor, Friday, April 7, 11 am-12 pm

Southeast Branch, Monday, April 10, 11 am-12 pm

Trotwood Branch, Friday, April 14, 11 am-12 pm

Enjoy a reading and craft inspired by the Arab Culture, highlighting Ramadan and life in Egypt. Crafts will include making a Ramadan lantern, a hanging star, and more. Registration is required. For Grades 1-4 and Tweens

Ramadan Celebration

Miami Township Branch, Saturday, April 15, 1-3 pm 

Celebrate Ramadan and experience the culture with activities and food - fun for All Ages!

Poetry Reading of Khaled Mattawa

Main Library, Third Street Bridge, Wednesday, April 19, 4:30-5:30 pm

Listen to the poetry of Khaled Mattawa, who was born and raised in Libya and relocated to the U.S. as a teenager in 1979. In partnership with the Dayton Arab American Forum. For Adults

Movie Night: Arab Heritage Edition

Main Library, Community Room A, Tuesday, April 25, 5-7 pm

Dayton Arab American Forum (DAAF) is hosting a family movie night that explores the Arab culture. For All Ages 

National Arab American Heritage Month Day Party

Main Library, Bassani Theater Off Third, 3rd Floor, Saturday, April 29, 2-5 pm

Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with music and dancing! Enjoy Arab desserts inside an Arabian tent, have your name designed in Arabic calligraphy, and try on Arabic outfits. For All ages

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