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Arab Detroit Wishes Helen Thomas a Happy 90th Birthday
Today, longtime journalist and Arab American trailblazer, Helen Thomas, will turn 90 years-old.
A dedicated journalist for over 67 years, Thomas began her career with the United Press International (UPI) as a reporter in 1943 at a time when women had not yet permeated the news and media industry. In 1960, she began to cover White House briefings, and by 1974, she was named the first female White House bureau chief for a wire service by the UPI.
Shortly after, she became the first female to be appointed an officer of the National Press Club. It wasn’t until 2000, however, that Thomas marked her place in the front row of the press briefing room with the distinguished ‘first question’. And just as she was the first female to ascend to such notable positions, likewise was she the first Arab American to do so.
Most recently, Thomas retired from her position as a columnist at Hearst, which came as a result of the May 27th exchange in which Thomas shared her opinions– thought by many to be disparaging– in regards to the Israeli-Palestinian status quo.
Despite her abrupt retirement, the Arab American National Museum is currently fund-raising to pay for a statue of Thomas to hold a permanent spot at the museum. It is apart of their efforts to recognize the former journalist for her contributions to journalism, women, and the Arab American community.
Last year, upon turning 89 years-old, President Obama — who shares the same August 4th birthday — presented Thomas with a very special celebration as he presented her with a cake and incited fellow press room journalists to sing happy birthday.
This year, although there won’t be a special presentation made by the president or press colleagues, fans and supporters of Helen Thomas within Detroit’s Arab American community will continue to sing and celebrate the longevity of Thomas’ illustrious career and life.
Arab Detroit salutes Thomas for her endless accomplishments and wishes the vanguard journalist many more healthful, prosperous years.
Arab Detroit