The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)-Michigan is finalizing plans for its Annual Fundraising Gala on Dec. 12, amid increasingly difficult financial challenges.

“LA-8” Attorney David Cole is to keynote ADC-Michigan’s annual fundraising gala.

The gala, to be held at the Hyatt Regency, 600 Town Center Drive in Dearborn, is expected to host over 1,000 guests.
The rise in financial trouble both locally and nationally has left ADC, a non-profit group, in serious need of support. The organization depends solely on sponsors and community contributions to sustain its operations. ADC-Michigan set a goal of gaining 7,500 new donors before the New Year.

“This year’s call for support is unlike any other we’ve seen,” said ADC Regional Director Imad Hamad. “Our friends in the community need to know that we are at a very crucial financial stage, and we need their help.”

Established 28 years ago, ADC is the largest organization protecting the rights of Arab Americans. The local ADC Michigan Regional Office was formed 12 years ago, seeing over 600 discrimination cases each year. The group works with government agencies and community organizations to address issues facing the Arab American community.

“Without the support of those around us, we could not have sustained our active participation in the issues that effect the community,” said Hamad. “Although these are challenging times, we remain confident that our friends and supporters will not let us down.”

The annual gala program features an awards ceremony honoring individuals whose work is consistent with ADC’s commitment to civil rights and community service.

This year’s keynote speaker is Attorney David Cole, Georgetown University Law Center professor and author of the book “Less Safe Less Free.”

Cole is known for his work in the “LA 8” case, a two-decade long court battle to prevent the deportation of eight Palestinians and one Kenyan immigrant. ADC will present Cole with the Guardian of Civil Rights Award for his efforts in the case.

Before the banquet, ADC will hold a press conference and meet-and-greet with actor Hassan ‘Haaz’ Sleiman, star of the film, “The Visitor.” Sleiman will receive the Excellence in Entertainment Award at the event.

Others to be awarded include Michael George, Chairman of the Chaldean Federation of America, Abdulhakem Alsadah, Founder and President of the National Association of Yemeni Americans (NAYA), Attorney Tim Attalla, Brenda Rosenberg, Co-Executive Producer of the film “Reuniting the Children of Abraham,” and Safa Rifka, ADC National Executive Board Chairman.

Also at the banquet will be an exhibit featuring cultural artwork by artist Ibrahim Shalaby. Shalaby’s work is known for warm depictions of Arab culture and tradition.

Despite its challenges, the group said it remains determined to push forward and continue work on the local, national, and global levels.

“ADC-Michigan is facing unprecedented financial challenges, and this is not a typical call for funds,” Hamad said. “We urge the members of our community to lend their support. A simple donation of $25 may not seem like much, but it can make a great deal of difference.”

For more information, call the ADC-Michigan Regional Office at (313) 581-1201.