Aref Assaf, 12-08-2007

We just learned about a very successful fundraising event held recently in support of the great work of ADC, the venerable Arab American Anti-Discrimination Committee. The dinner was organized by the ADC New Jersey Chapter, which was founded in 1995. It drew about forty people and was held, we are told, at the home of an Arab medical doctor.

We believe the work of ADC is pivotal to our community, and must be supported by all of us. No pundit can fairly quantify our success in the last two decades without acknowledging the leading role ADC has played not only in setting the positive tone, but more critically, in defining and shaping the frames of reference with which our issues continue to be dealt.

Admittedly, you may not see the results of  ADC's work every day or on the front pages of newspapers. ADC may not also solicit the same admiration of some people who may find faults both with its mission and achievements.  Notwithstanding, it is fact that ADC tirelessly promotes and defends our community whether against the further encroachments on our civil rights, the discriminatory practices by employers or public agencies, or in the visa delays facing Arabs and Muslims.

ADC's credibility is further credentialed by the fact that its voice is heard in the halls of Congress and in the White House. Its unrivalled status as the largest and oldest Arab civil rights organization is ironically evidenced by the attacks from hatemongers and bigots. When NJ State Senator Cardinale decided to attack our community, he went after the symbol of our power and the pride of our political achievements. He attacked ADC by maliciously linking it to terrorism.

In reality, Cardinale was attacking each and every one of us who has Arab blood flowing in them. He and other racists of his cloth must be taught a lesson they will never forget. Freedom of speech is sacred and enshrined in our Bill of Rights. But hate speech is a criminal trespass on other people's rights and sense of fairness and justice. If we are successful in forcing Cardinale to categorically retract his accusations and apologize for the hurt he has caused us, the pipeline of future anti-Arab bigots may soon dry up.

Supporters of ADC and indeed, all Arab American organizations must rise up to the obstacles facing our community. For in the game of life, only by facing obstacles head on are rewarding opportunities made possible. Support by any means is an essential ingredient to the success of our collective efforts.

That is why we are delighted to hear of the support ADC is receiving from the community and we hope you will consider doing the same. Start by reserving your tickets for their 2008 Annual Banquet, to be held on March 8th.