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ADC Michigan 32nd Annual Benefit Gala
The ADC National Office would like to congratulate the staff, volunteers, and interns of ADC Michigan, led by Regional Director and Senior National Advisor, Imad Hamad, for an outstanding end of the year event, the ADC Michigan 32nd Annual Benefit Gala: ‘Telling Our Story. Writing Our Narrative.’
The event was held on Friday, December 7th at Dearborn’s Greenfield Manor, where a packed crowd of 1,000 government officials, foreign dignitaries, activists, and community members shared an evening of memorable speeches and awards. ADC National President Warren David and ADC Director of Policy and Legal Affairs, Abed Ayoub arrived from Washington, DC to attend.
The evening began with Artist Yasmeen Suri singing the National Anthem. Welcoming remarks were given by by Imad Hamad and Kristyn Taylor, ADC Michigan Case and Redress Coordinator. After special remarks and a presentation of the American flag to ADC Michigan given by Congressman John Dingell, President David and Mr. Ayoub gave inspiring ADC National remarks. President David, in his address, congratulated the Palestinians for the recent, momentous vote at the United Nations, and spoke about the various initiatives ADC is implementing on a national level, in pursuit of its mission. He also spoke about many of the initiatives ADC is currently undertaking and outlined ADC’s new membership campaign. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow extended her greetings to ADC Michigan with a special video message. Ms. Glenda Lewis, Anchor and Reporter at WXYZ Channel 7 News, served as the Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening.
Five inspirational leaders were honored for work in their respective fields during the Gala. The Michigan Arab Orchestra was presented the Building Bridges Award by Attorney Joumana Kayrouz for their dedication to preserving classical and contemporary traditions of Arab music while providing opportunities to bridge social and cultural barriers with its work in the greater community. Dr. Samar Al Shamsi, Artist, was presented the Excellence in the Arts Award by Pamela Marcil, DIA Public Relations Director, for her success in the arts as a woman and a member of the Arab community. Mr. Ali Siblani, President and CEO of EnvisionTEC, was presented the Arab American Entrepreneur Award by Judge David Allen of the 3rd Circuit Court for his entrepreneurial success in the 3D printing industry and for his community advocacy. Mr. Scott Taylor, President of Landstar Supply Chain Solutions, was presented with the Community Service Award by Attorney Fatina Abdrabboh for being a pivotal player in the revitalization and development of many of Michigan’s communities where he is a well-known and highly regarded figure. Lastly, Mrs. Hiam Turfe Brinjikji, counselor at Crestwood High School, was presented the Educator of the Year Award by Kristyn Taylor for her courage to expose the discrimination occurring within the school system and for her advocacy on behalf of ESL students.
President David commented on the overall event saying, “For over 32 years the ADC Michigan team has done an exemplary job of representing us on a local and regional level. We look forward to their continued success as they advocate and defend civil rights in Michigan.”
ADC National congratulates the Michigan office and all of the awardees.