FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2025
[email protected]
Nearly 40 Years After Alex Odeh’s Murder, ADC Reestablishes Local Presence to Provide Legal Assistance and Promote Business Growth
Anaheim, CA | The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), the nation’s oldest and largest Arab American civil rights organization, announces the opening of its office in Anaheim’s Little Arabia neighborhood. This marks a historic return to Orange County, nearly four decades after the tragic murder of ADC leader Alex Odeh. At 45 years old, ADC now encompasses nearly 130,000 members nationwide.
“ADC’s return to Anaheim, nearly 40 years after the murder of Alex Odeh, is a necessary step at a moment as challenging and intense as the days after 9/11,” said Abed Ayoub, National Executive Director. “We’re reopening in Little Arabia without fear or hesitation, committed more than ever to defending our community’s rights and supporting Arab American businesses. We will not back down, no matter how tough the fight.”
The new Anaheim office will serve as both a legal clinic and community resource, enabling ADC to offer direct legal support to individuals and local businesses. In addition, the office will focus on policy initiatives that can secure formal minority business certification for Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) businesses, increase access to state and federal grants, and expand government contract opportunities for Arab entrepreneurs.
Major Lawsuit Filed
On the same day as this office opening, ADC filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on behalf of Mr. Nabil Shukair, a Palestinian American who was the target of a racially motivated and violent arrest by Simi Valley police officers. The complaint cites excessive force, unlawful searches, and false imprisonment—all violations of his constitutional rights.
A Call to Action
- Legal Services and Consultations: Individuals can contact ADC for pro bono or reduced-fee legal consultations on civil rights, immigration matters, and business-related legal guidance.
- Community Resource: The office will act as a central location for sharing information on grants, policy initiatives, and networking events that benefit Arab Americans and small businesses.
- Business Advocacy: ADC encourages entrepreneurs to collaborate with the organization to push for a statewide MENA business certification, creating a pathway to wider funding and contracting possibilities.
For more information about ADC’s Anaheim office, contact [email protected].