DEARBORN —The American Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC) celebrated a milestone on Friday October 26th at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, where their 20th annual “Building Economic Bridges Gala” was held. The event included over 1,000 attendees, as well as local leaders and candidates for the upcoming election who turned out to support the organization.

The AACC encompasses a diverse local, national and international membership,  becoming the largest American-Arab business organization in the United States, stimulating economic  growth by building economic and cultural bridges locally, nationally and across the globe. The organization’s annual gala is just one of the few signature events they hold on an annual basis. The AACC also spear-heads the annual International Arab Festival in Dearborn every June, an event that has garnered worldwide recognition and has become a staple in the Dearborn community for 17 years. 

Among the speakrs at the event included United Auto Workers (UAW) President Bob King, who gave a keynote address at the ceremony, discussing the current state of the economy and the importance of the UAW’s work. King has had a longstanding history with the UAW, serving since 1970 and gaining a positive reputation for his activism and passionate beliefs in social and economic justice. 

Also present at the event was J. John Antakli, President and CEO of INTRACO and Attorney Joumana Kayrouz, owner of the Michigan Center for Personal Injury and the Law Offices of Joumana Kayrouz, who both received the Economic Bridge Builder of the Year Award, for their commitment to excellence and leadership in their fields. 

Attorney Joumana Kayroz accepts her Economic Bridge Builder of the Year Award. PHOTO: NAFEH ABUNAB

“I am very honored to receive the Economic Bridge Builder of the Year Award from the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, its board and members,” Ms. Kayrouz said.

“I have dedicated my life to championing the rights of individuals injured in everyday life, and also to stand with individuals, groups and organizations to strengthen their rights and to bring organizations and leaders together for the betterment of our community through network empowerment.”

Ms. Kayrouz called the American Arab Chamber of Commerce “one of the most important organizations serving the people of the Detroit region” and she offered special praise and gratitude to AACC Executive Director Fay Beydoun.

During a portion of the event, the AACC also paid homage to its founding and current board members, who have been instrumental to the Chamber’s growth and development over the last 20 years.  The Chamber took the opportunity to recognize its partners, Comerica, Ford Motor Company and DTE Energy, for their support of the event.  

“We cannot thank our partners, sponsors and friends enough for helping to make our 20th Anniversary such a success,” states AACC Executive Director Fay Beydoun.  “The level of support displayed at our gala is a testament to the significance of our work and the continued impact of our mission.”

In a press release, AACC Chairman Ali Dagher said the chamber will continue to make an impact as Arab Americans 

gain more momentum in the  business world.   

“The Chamber’s role, as a vital player in the business world, is evidenced by the number and caliber of individuals who were present with us for this event,” states Dagher.  “As the Arab American business community continues to grow, so will the need for an institution like ours to support and represent its interests.”

For more information on the AACC, visit their webiste at: www.americanarab.com or contact their office at 313.945.1700.