About the Film

“Arab-Americans have proudly ventured beyond their ethnicity, language and religion to make noteworthy contributions to both the immigrant experience and ultimately the American experience. They served this nation with significant contributions throughout the spectrum of society – as politicians and public servants, entertainers, physicians, business leaders, and educators. It is this extraordinary and uniquely American story of people and places that must be told.”  Abe Kasbo, filmmaker.

A Thousand And One Journeys: The Arab Americans is the untold story of almost 200 years of the contributions of those who immigrated to the United States from the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf have made to the American fabric.

The film vividly paints a portrait of the Arab-American immigrant experience through the stories of people who, like all Americans, immigrated in pursuit of the American Dream, including Senator George Mitchell, Jamie Farr, General John Abizaid, Anthony Shadid, Helen Thomas and more. With historical immigration patterns as background, the film explores the personal stories of Arab-Americans and how they have contributed to the collective American experience. At a time when the media tends to paint Arab peoples and culture with the broad brush of terrorism, it is increasingly important to present a positive image of the many people of Middle Eastern, North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula who have made America their home, and highlight their American journey as an important part of the larger American Experience.

As the Arab-American community increasingly finds itself in the media and public spotlight, now is the time to present a positive image of Arab-Americans and the diversity of their contributions, experiences, backgrounds and faith.