Dear Friend:

I am writing to thank you for joining me at the people’s house – Drumthwacket, as we celebrated the achievements of the Arab-American community and the Arab-American Heritage Commission (Commission) on the evening of Monday, July 20, 2009.

When I created the Commission in October 2008 through Executive Order 123, it was the first of its kind in the nation- and still is. With its goal of showcasing positive contributions by Arab-Americans, the Commission will aid in fostering and embracing diversity in the Garden State. The moving performance of world-renown musician Simon Shaheen further demonstrated Arab accomplishments in the arts.

Moreover, I encourage each and every one of you, as civic leaders, to promote participation in the 2010 Census throughout the Arab-American community. It will make a world of difference in our state in terms of government representation, project funding, and economic development efforts, and a general understanding of just how diverse our population is.

My administration is committed to working with you on advancing the overall needs of the Arab community in the Garden State.  Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Jon S. Corzine

Governor