Mariam Ktiri

Publication Date

Fall 2023

Abstract

With a global Arab population of 646 million and 3.7 million Arabs in the United States, the presence of only one Arab-American-focused museum is a matter of concern. The Arab American National Museum (AANM) in Dearborn, Michigan, was established in 2005 in response to post-9/11 discrimination, violent racism, and xenophobia. AANM became a pivotal touchstone for connecting communities to pan-Arab American culture. While its permanent exhibits span the historical narrative of Arab Americans, they remain outdated, especially in the face of ongoing issues such as the Liberation of Palestine movement. This essay analyzes the AANM’s role as a cultural bridge-builder, evaluating its adherence to best practices and understanding of its audience and proposing enhancements to maintain its mission. In addition, the essay discusses a comparative approach with the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, France, exploring the AANM’s effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement, ensuring its continued relevance in fostering cross-cultural understanding and advocacy.

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