AAI Bulletin

Arab Americans Ascend to Leadership Spots Post-Election

Posted on Thursday November 30, 2006

Arab American Elected to CT House Minority Leadership

AAI member and Connecticut State Representative Selim Noujaim (R) was elected as an Assistant Republican Leader by the Republican caucus on Nov. 30. As part of the House minority leadership, Noujaim will help determine the caucus’s agenda for the upcoming legislative session and will work to ensure that critical legislation is developed and enacted. He won his November re-election race overwhelmingly, receiving 94% of the vote.

Noujaim was also at the forefront of a successful effort to secure state funding for the redevelopment of the former Mattatuck Manufacturing site in his Waterbury district, and was called “a strong voice for Waterbury” by Gov. M. Jodi Rell (R) because of his advocacy. Congratulations to Noujaim on his rapid rise in the House and his successful work for his district.

Saab Parlays Candidacy into Spot on Transitional Team

AAI member Sid Saab of Maryland was one of approximately 50 people appointed to the transitional team of incoming Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold (R). He will serve as a member of the team’s Land Use, Planning & Zoning, Transportation and Environment Committee, sitting on its General Development Plan Subcommittee.

Saab gained recognition in Anne Arundel County through his recent bid for a seat on the County Council. He garnered nearly 40% of the vote in the November election running as a Republican in a Democratic District.

Keeping You Informed for 2008

Believe it or not, there are already nearly two dozen candidates who are eyeing or are thought to be contemplating a 2008 White House run. AAI has accumulated an extensive list of potential contenders from both parties and will be tracking their statements and positions on civil liberties, the Middle East, education, the economy and other issues of concern to Arab American voters. Stay tuned to our website throughout the coming year to help you make an informed decision on which candidate to support in 2008.

Former NPC Member Lends Expertise at Immigration Forum in Poland

Former AAI National Policy Council (NPC) member Emira Habiby Browne recently spoke in Poland as part of a State Department-sponsored Expert Speakers trip on immigration. The forum focused on both positive and negative aspects of the American immigration model and lessons the model could offer Poland, which has seen a significant spike in immigration since its entry into the European Union.

Browne was selected as one of the event’s speakers because of the work she has done with New York City’s Arab and Muslim immigrant community. She is currently in the process of forming the Center for the Integration and Advancement of New Americans (CIANA), an organization that will work with recent immigrants from the Middle East and neighboring countries in Africa and South Asia. AAI congratulates Browne on being recognized for her important work and wishes her the best of luck with her latest endeavor.