DEARBORN — The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) Michigan will recognize excellence in the judicial community during its 7th a­­nnual Judges Night reception, on September 23, 2008, at the Bint Jebail Cultural Center in Dearborn.

This annual event is organized and hosted by ADC Michigan’s Advisory Board, chaired by Atty. Nabih Ayad. The event hosts a number of judges from the local and federal level, as well as elected officials and community members.  This distinctive event is the first of its kind to honor members of the bench who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to civil rights.  

 

ADC Michigan Regional Director, Imad Hamad, said that the event is unique in that it provides a forum for the judges, attorneys, and community members to gather under one roof in recognition of the preservation of civil liberties. 

 

“The ADC Michigan team takes great pride in putting together this great program, which serves as a valuable bridge of communication between the Arab American community at large and the judicial community in the state of Michigan,” stated Hamad.  “It is an event that brings together an interesting blend of perspectives in the name of one common cause.”

Attorney Eric Treene

This year’s program will feature a keynote address by Attorney Eric Treene, Special Counsel for Religious Discrimination, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Civil Rights Division.  Treene’s work involves overseeing the DOJ’s outreach efforts to Muslim and Arab communities regarding post-911 discrimination and bias crime issues. Treene was recently awarded ADC’s “Friend in Government” Award, at its annual national convention in Washington, D.C.

“The guest speakers we’ve hosted over the years have reflected our efforts to actively engage with government representatives,” continued Hamad.  “This year’s guest is no exception.  He is a true leader in the field of civil rights.”

Each year ADC Michigan awards two judges who exhibit an exemplary commitment to civil rights within their courtrooms.  This year’s reception will honor Judge Anna Diggs Taylor of the U.S. District Court, and Judge Charlene Elder of the Wayne County Circuit Court.  Both will be presented with ADC’s “Guardian of Justice” award, for their passionate dedication to justice both in and out of the courtroom.

Judge Charlene Elder

Elder, the first female Arab American judge to serve on the Wayne County Circuit Court, said that attending the event over the years has always been an enjoyable experience.

“Judges Night truly is a great event and it has always been an honor to attend,” said Elder.  “The members of our community really enjoy it.  It is a great way for attorneys in the community to interact with judges one on one.  It is always unique, professional, and well executed.”

Elder said she was both thrilled and surprised to find out that she will be presented with an award during the ceremony.  

 

“I feel extremely honored to be the recipient of the ‘Guardian of Justice’ award,” continued Elder. “To receive this recognition from ADC, an organization that works incessantly to ensure that the civil liberties of Arab Americans are protected, is a true honor.”

The event will include dinner, along with an awards presentation, and is by invitation only.  For more information on Judges Night, contact ADC Michigan Director of Policy and Community Affairs, Nadia Fadel, at 313-581-1201.