Observing Arab American and Middle Eastern North African Heritage Month With Kids

When we celebrate Arab American/MENA Heritage Month with our children, it’s important to understand the diversity of identities and cultures we’re honoring. The terms “Arab American” and “Middle Eastern and North African” (MENA) encompass a wide range of experiences and backgrounds.

Arab Americans trace their roots to countries where Arabic is spoken, from Morocco in North Africa to Iraq in the Middle East. However, the MENA region includes many non-Arab peoples as well, such as Persians, Kurds, and Berbers, each with their own distinct languages and traditions.

It’s helpful to remember that people from these regions may have different preferences for how they identify themselves. Some may feel a strong connection to their specific country of origin, like Lebanese or Egyptian, while others may embrace broader terms like Arab American or MENA. There’s no single term that works for everyone, as personal and community preferences can vary widely.

The best approach is to listen and be attentive to how individuals and families describe their own heritage. It’s okay to respectfully ask which terms people prefer if you’re unsure.