Arab Heritage Month Insight
April’s designation as Arab American Heritage Month celebrates the history, achievements, contributions and diverse culture of Arab Americans. Farah Chatila, MPH, project specialist, HM Institute for Technology, Innovation & Education (MITIE), HMAI, and vice chair of the Arab Heritage ERG, shares her insight into the significance of the month.
“Growing up as the daughter of Lebanese immigrants, I never fully grasped the profound impact Arab Americans have had on the fabric of America. Their contributions were seldom discussed in society or pop culture. Now, I seize this month as an opportunity to illuminate Arab culture and amplify Arab voices. I celebrate the remarkable achievements of fellow Arab Americans like Steve Jobs, Dr. Michael DeBakey, Shakira, Rami Malek and countless others.
These individuals come from diverse Arab backgrounds and nations, showcasing the richness and diversity of Arab culture to everyone. Through their accomplishments, they have shattered stereotypes that often plague Arab Americans, proudly embracing their heritage and sharing it with the world. This month allows us to challenge stereotypes and reclaim our Arab identity so we can foster greater understanding and acceptance within society.”
Celebrating Arab Heritage Month
Join the Arab Heritage ERG and the Center for Performing Arts Medicine (CPAM) for an enriching celebration of Arab heritage on Wednesday, April 24 from noon – 1:30 p.m. in the Crain Garden at HMH. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture through music, dance, culinary delights and more during this National Arab Heritage Month celebration. A performance of Levantine folk dance called Dabke begins at 12:30 p.m. Register to attend in-person by clicking HERE or join via Livestream.
Learn More About DEI Terms
The Glossary of Important DEI Terms, available in the DEI Toolkit, is a valuable resource for Houston Methodist employees by providing definitions to common DEI terms. Each month, the DEI Corner will present definitions to help increase staff awareness and understanding. This month we define the terms anti-bias and anti-racism:
Anti-Bias: Opposing or prohibiting unfair prejudice or discrimination against people based on their race, religion, ethnicity, ability, gender or other factors.
Anti-Racism: Intentional efforts made against the systemic oppression of marginalized groups. This involves conscious efforts and actions to provide equitable opportunities for all people on individual and systemic levels.
Updated Interfaith Holidays Calendar Available
Click HERE to see the list of interfaith holidays and observances for the remainder of 2024.
Join or Create an ERG
Are you interested in learning more about our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)? Text ERG to 45991. Click here for more information on all 10 of Houston Methodist’s employee created and led ERGs. Any employee may join an ERG they identify with or would like to learn more about or support
Use Your 2024 DEI Personal Day
Eligible employees may use their 2024 DEI Personal Day hours to celebrate days that are special to them or other members of their faith, race, nationality or anything else that makes them unique. There are no restrictions on what you can use it for. Note that unlike standard PTO, the hours do not roll over to the next year, so don’t forget to use your personal day before the last day of the final pay period, which is Dec. 14, 2024. Just as with any other time off request, employees need to request and be approved for the time off. If you do not have department guidelines for requesting PTO, the PTO policy, HR25, requires one week’s advance notice.
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