Series Profiles Extraordinary Arab Americans

posted on: Apr 21, 2012

PBS’ impressive new documentary series “Arab American Stories” subtly defies stereotypes by engaging viewers on a human level and challenging people’s perceptions of what it means to be of Middle Eastern descent in this country.

Detroit Public Television WTVS-TV (Channel 56) produced the 13-part series that kicked off earlier this month and is airing nationally. Hosted by National Public Radio reporter Neda Ulaby and directed by award-winning filmmaker Alicia Sams (“By the People: The Election of Barack Obama”), the program profiles 39 activists, artists, business owners, chefs and scientists of Arab descent all over the country.

Unlike TLC’s groundbreaking but controversial reality series “All-American Muslim,” which only lasted one season, “Arab American Stories” is less about religion and more about nationality and individual identity.

Like “All-American Muslim,” the series proves that being an American means different things to different people while emphasizing the dogged determination of immigrants and their undeniable sense of pride and patriotism.

For instance, when “Arab American Stories” airs next week, producers will profile Huguette Caland, a painter, sculptor and fashion designer of Lebanese descent, who lives in Los Angeles. Caland says America is the place she can most freely express herself and her art.

Each installment focuses on three extraordinary Arab Americans with similar ambitions. Previous profiles include NPR’s Diane Rehm and Dearborn resident Moose Scheib, the brains behind Loanmod.com. It’s a locally based company that helps homeowners refinance and stave off foreclosure.

Mekeisha Madden Toby
The Detroit News