Day 24. James Zogby Amplifying Arab American Voices.
“The struggle for full inclusion in the American political system is a fight for dignity, respect, and a rightful place at the table.”
— Dr James Zogby
We celebrate Dr James Zogby, a pioneering political advocate and the founder of the Arab American Institute (AAI). For more than four decades, Zogby has worked tirelessly to ensure Arab Americans are seen, heard, and respected in the halls of power.
A Voice for Representation and Respect
Born in Utica, New York, to Lebanese American parents, James Zogby has long been a champion of civil rights, political engagement, and cross-cultural understanding. In 1985, he founded the Arab American Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to political empowerment, advocacy, and research on issues impacting Arab American communities.
At a time when Arab Americans were frequently misunderstood or maligned, Zogby refused to stay silent — choosing instead to organize, educate, and uplift a generation of leaders and voters.
Building Power Through Politics
Under Zogby’s leadership, AAI became a hub for Arab American political involvement, helping shape national conversations on civil liberties, US foreign policy, hate crimes, and minority rights. He also served as a Democratic National Committee member, advising presidents and policymakers on Arab American concerns and Middle East policy.
Dr Zogby’s work has helped Arab Americans move from the margins to the mainstream, showing that democracy must include all voices to be real and just.
In His Own Words
“Arab Americans have something to say — not just about what happens in the Arab world, but about what happens in their own backyards.”
— Dr James Zogby
Zogby has always emphasized that Arab Americans are not a monolith. His approach to advocacy balances cultural pride with civic engagement, and challenges stereotypes with data, dialogue, and dignity.
Education Through Polling and Public Engagement
Dr Zogby is also founder of Zogby Research Services, a polling firm that provides critical insight into American and Middle Eastern public opinion, challenging misconceptions and promoting nuanced understandings of Arab identity and politics.
He is the author of several books, including Arab Voices: What They Are Saying to Us, and Why it Matters, which helps bridge the gap between Western perceptions and Middle Eastern realities.
Learn More About James Zogby
📚 Arab Voices – James Zogby’s essential book.
🎥 Webinar speaker for afikra on Youtube.
📰 Opinion Columns – The Nation – Regular contributions by Zogby.
Quotes to Reflect On
“Prejudice thrives in silence. We must speak up, organize, and make our presence felt — not just in protest, but at the ballot box.”
— James Zogby
Reflection
When Dr Zogby noticed a lack of representation in his community, he did something about it by creating an institute dedicated to sharing the views and values of Arab Americans. Consider these questions as you reflect on your ability to amplify the messages of marginalized populations.
💬In what ways can research amplify the voices of those not represented equitably in policies and practices?
💬Why do you think Zogby chose to found the Arab American Institute? What did its creation do for the Arab American community?
Tomorrow we will highlight the work of filmmaker Nadine Labaki.
Learn more: The Arab American Institute promotes policy, advocacy and research to amplify Arab American voices.
#UU #UUA #CelebrateDiversity #30DaysOfHonoringArabAmericans #ArabAmerican #ArabAmericanHeritageMonth #ArabAmericanVoices #PoliticalAdvocacy #DignityInDemocracy
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