League of Arab States Celebrates Second Annual Arab-American Day Reception in D.C.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The League of Arab States, in coordination with the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Washington D.C., hosted the Second Annual Arab-American Day at the atrium of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (RRBITC) in Washington, D.C.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131217/NE34743) 

This memorable event (December 4 - official date) was attended by more than 400 guests, including 12 Arab Ambassadors, the Ambassador of Brazil, high ranking officials from the World Bank, Congress, State Department, distinguished American friends, Arab-Americans representing their communities, and Arab-American organizations in the U.S.A.  

The guests were feted with traditional Arabic instrumental music, representing Arab countries and a selection of Arabic food and pastries.

Among the speakers were Andrew Gelfuso, Vice President of RRBITC; Mohammed Al-Hussaini Al- Sharif, Ambassador of the Arab League; Ambassador Richard Schmeirer, on behalf of the Honorable Secretary of State, John F. Kerry;  Hunaina Al-Mughairy, Ambassador of Oman to the United States on behalf of the Council of Arab Ambassadors in D.C., and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Honorable Raymond "Ray" LaHood.

The Ambassador of the Arab League in Washington, D.C., seized the opportunity to pay tribute to Ms. Lily Bandak, an Arab-American artist with disability, who enjoys a long history of successful talent in photography.  The Ambassador acknowledged Ms. Bandak's courage & struggle by commenting on her story that reflected her remarkable strength & great efforts that she exerted for survival to become a productive American citizen.

Thirty notable Arab-American artists participated in an exhibit of 50 paintings and a few selected artistic photos - all provided an exciting cultural and educational highlight to the evening.

Twenty artists, representing twelve Arabic countries, were present for the occasion. They were able to meet & exchange views with many of their fellow Arab-Americans from an array of American states.

The Ambassador of the Arab League also received a Governor's Citation from Governor Martin O'Malley of the State of Maryland, in recognition of the Arab League's dedication to the Arab-American community in the United States.

VIDEO of event:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yOohcrdLt8
or http://arableague-us.org/wp/

For  information on  Arab League in Washington, D.C.:  www.arableague-us.org

SOURCE League of Arab States