Rashida Tlaib (Right), a Democratic candidate for Michigan state representative, speaks with a supporter during a fundraiser June 13 at the Arab American National Museum. Tlaib is running as a Democrat in her bid to represent southwest Detroit’s 12th district. If she succeeds she will be the only Arab American in the state legislature. Current Arab American Rep. Barbara Farrah, D-Southgate, is in her final term, having served the maximum six years, and will no longer be a member of state congress when the new term begins. “It’s not only about the fact that I’m an Arab American,” Tlaib said at the event. “It’s about the fact that I’m going to do a really good job for the state of Michigan.” The 12th district’s current, outgoing representative, House Majority Floor Leader Steve Tobocman is supporting Tlaib and has served as her mentor. He said he’s proud to be part of the campaign of an Arab American candidate breaking barriers in the legislature. “I feel privileged, as a Jewish American, someone of the Jewish faith, to have that connection.”   PHOTO:?Khalil AlHajal/TAAN