DEARBORN — The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee’s board of directors recently issued a statement, calling for community healing and unity in Michigan and pledging a renewed focus for its mission of protecting the civil rights and liberties of Arab Americans.

The statement was made, following the completion of ADC’s investigation into allegations of sexual harassment by several women, against its former Michigan Director, Imad Hamad, who will remain temporarily with the organization as an advisor. According to news reports, at least 13 women alleged to have been sexually harassed by Hamad.  

The statement read, “ADC does not, and will not, tolerate any form of discrimination within its organization or community, including in employment practices and the workplace. Further, ADC wants to formally thank and acknowledge the responsibility and courage of the women who came forward to participate in the investigation; we recognize the sensitive and emotional circumstances required of them throughout this process.” 

Moving forward, ADC has determined that it will hire a new director for its Michigan office. 

Abed Ayoub, ADC’s director of policy and legal affairs, will serve as interim director of the Michigan office and will work with a volunteer liaison committee to begin preparations for a transition.