Washington, D.C. | www.adc.org | August 8, 2018 – The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) congratulates Rashida Tlaib on her Democratic Primary election victory in Michigan’s 13th District. Tlaib beat out a crowded field of challengers and is now poised to become the first Palestinian-American women to serve in U.S. Congress. ADC applauds Tlaib’s victory. While Tlaib still must win the general election in November, her district is heavily Democratic and without a Republican challenger, she is almost assured a victory.
Tlaib is the child of Palestinian immigrants but was born and raised in the Detroit, Michigan area. Tlaib was the second Muslim women ever elected to a state legislature in 2008 when she won a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives. While in government, Tlaib has supported progressive stances such as expanding Medicare and strengthening workers and union rights. In an op-ed published two years ago, Tlaib stated, in reference to opposing President Donald Trump’s actions and agenda, “silence is not an option and it never should be.” Outside of government, Tlaib has dedicated her career and personal life to advancing civil, human, and environmental rights around the country.
As the child of immigrants and an Arab, Tlaib is acutely aware of the issues that impact our community. In Congress, we know she will continue to be a strong advocate for the community, and we look forward to working with her.