DEARBORN — Members of the Arab American community came together to commemorate the sixth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11 on Tuesday, at the Byblos Banquet Hall in Dearborn.

The event, organized by the Congress of Arab American Organizations (CAAO), served as a fitting tribute to the fallen heroes of that tragic day, and honored the men and women in uniform who serve the city of Dearborn.

Honor Guards

The banquet hall was packed with local community members, as well as many members of the police and fire departments, who were there to commemorate the national tragedy. The program began with the ceremonious raising of the flag, followed by the National Anthem. Remarks were delivered by several guests, including Dearborn Mayor Jack O’Reilly, Arab American Institute (AAI) President, James Zogby, and CAAO executive board members Osama Siblani and Abed Hammoud.

Hammoud expressed to the audience his gratitude to the local police and fire departments for the contributions they make to their community.

“I want to tell the police and fire department present here today that we have appreciated you long before 9/11,” stated Hammoud. “You have always been in our hearts. We know what you do for our families and we thank you.”

Hammoud also beseeched the government and legislatures to cease funding the current war, and use that money to increase the budgets for the police and fire departments, whose members risk their lives daily to ensure the safety of others.

The night’s dinner and facilities were generously donated by Joe Bazzi, general manager of Byblos, who was commended for his admirable service and dedication to the community. Bazzi humbly thanked the audience for their presence, and spoke of the importance of gathering to remember this tragic day.

“We are here to honor those who put their lives on the line for others every day,” said Bazzi. “On that day, we learned the level of bravery and sacrifice that one American has for another. Today we honor the victims of 9/11 and we remember that sacrifice.”

American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) Deputy Director, Rana Abbas, attended the event and was touched by the program and its message of peace.

“This event was a true example of what America is really about,” she stated. “Mr. Joe Bazzi and CAAO were able to honor those unsung heroes who risk their lives to keep us safe. What better way to remember them on a day that means so much?”

Arab Americans have collectively felt the lasting effects of that historic day six years ago. Racial profiling, hate crimes, and overwhelmingly negative media perceptions immediately surfaced as a direct result of the incident. Abbas noted that Arab Americans as a whole have faced numerous struggles over the past few years.

“To Arab Americans, September 11 is a very solemn day,” Abbas continued. “We were affected by this day in more than one way. We not only grieved along with our nation, we were faced with injustices that we continue to face today.”

Mayor O’Reilly said the event was an important one and he was honored to be part of it.

The evening had a somber yet uplifting feel to it, as messages of universal peace and freedom were heard throughout the night. Bazzi vowed to make a tradition of the event, saying he will plan to hold a remembrance dinner every year in honor of the fallen heroes.