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Paterson Appoints Arab American to Deputy Mayor Post

Posted on Tuesday July 16, 2002

Paterson, NJ—During his inaugural gala on Monday, Paterson Mayor José Torres announced his appointment of Arab American Awni Abuhadba as the city’s next deputy mayor. Abuhadba’s appointment marks the first time in the history of New Jersey that an Arab American will hold such a position.

Noting the historic nature of the appointment, Torres pointed out that Arab Americans have been an important part of Paterson for more than 100 years. He called the appointment of Abuhadba “a move that is only the beginning and long overdue. We promised an administration of inclusion and tonight we delivered.”

A member of the Arab American Institute since its founding in 1985, Abuhadba has been an active member of the Paterson community for over two decades.

“My appointment as deputy mayor is testimony to our community’s active participation in the American political process,” Abuhadba said. “It shows that Arab Americans are very much involved and will continue to grow as a political force in this country.”

The inaugural gala at Paterson’s Brownstone House attracted more than 1,000 people. The event was a celebration of Paterson’s ethnic diversity and included displays with African, Latin, and Arabic themes.

Mayor Torres joined Arab American constituents, who numbered more than 100, in dancing to Arabic music and enjoying traditional baked goods.

“Our recognized presence at this event showed that the Arab American community of Paterson is an integral part of the city,” said Abed Awad, long time AAI member.

Abuhadba, a successful small business owner and community leader, plans to strengthen the ties of the Arab American community to the government and respond to the needs of the people of Paterson.

“Under Mayor Torres, we are going to work on Paterson block by block,” said Abuhadba. Asked if he had a special message for Paterson’s Arab American community, Deputy Mayor Abuhadba said, “If I could tell the Arab American community only one thing, it would be to get out there and vote!”