Arab-Americans, Muslims and Christians have been veterans of many armed conflicts.
Through the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the conflict in the Middle East, Arab-Americans have made contributions to the Armed Forces, the Peace Corps and the diplomatic corps.
The Main Library is hosting "Patriots & Peacemakers: Arab Americans in Service to Our Country," a traveling exhibit from the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn, Mich.
In addition to the national focus of the exhibit, the installation at the library also recognizes the impact of Arab-Americans who live and have lived in North Florida.
The exhibit is a way to acknowledge contributions made by the Arab-American community and a way to extend the educational contribution of the public library.
"The library is more than just books; it's the people who come to the library. We have a diverse community and Arab-Americans are an important part of our community," said Angela Vigil, library spokeswoman.
The exhibit is supported by the Ford Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and Chevron.
Local support for the exhibit was provided by the Ramallah- American Club of Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Friends of the Arab American National Museum and Angela Corey and Tommy Hazouri, who serve as honorary co-chairs.
"Patriots & Peacemakers" will be displayed through Dec. 15 in the third-floor gallery at the Main Library.
@drmaxdowntown
(904) 356-2466