Honoring Arab American Heritage Month
The Story of Heba and Aziz
As Arab American Heritage Month wraps up, it's a time to reflect on the vibrant contributions of Arab American families to their communities across the United States. In Beaverton, Oregon, Heba and Aziz's story stands as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the rich tapestry of Arab culture in America.
Heba (center left) and Aziz (center right) with their children.
Starting Over in Beaverton
Heba and Aziz, originally from Libya, arrived in the U.S. in 2017 with their five children, seeking safety and new opportunities.
“For me, it wasn’t easy moving to the U.S. with 5 children,” Heba says. “Especially with a different language and culture, it wasn’t easy to make friends and look for a job.”
Despite the challenges, they persevered. Heba, a former teacher, began volunteering in Beaverton schools, then worked as an assistant teacher while going to college — all while raising five children.
“We always teach them how we never gave up!” — Heba
Finding Support Through MFS
MFS programs became a vital partner in their journey. At Community Schools CAFE, the family found academic support, cultural respect, and a welcoming environment.
“At [MFS Community Schools CAFE] they respect our culture — when we celebrate Ramadan, when we celebrate Eid,” Heba says. “They understand when the kids are fasting, when they need to go pray. They help us a lot and I always appreciate their help.”
MFS also assisted with:
Homework help and enrichment activities
Tax preparation through MFS CASH Oregon
Job support for their daughter, now an Activity Leader at Community Schools CAFE
Giving Back to the Community
Even as they adjusted to a new country, Heba and Aziz committed to serving others.
Heba volunteers at Beaverton City Library, sharing Arabic stories and teaching children the Arabic alphabet.
Aziz supports initiatives at their mosque, strengthening bonds of mutual aid.
“Twice a month after I finish story time, I volunteer to teach Arabic letters and language. Private school would be expensive — so we use the library.” — Heba
Their service extends beyond cultural boundaries. From joining July 4th celebrations to cooking Thanksgiving turkey, they embrace inclusivity while honoring their Libyan roots.
Embracing Two Cultures
Heba and Aziz encourage their children to thrive in a multicultural environment.
“My kids have friends from many cultures,” Aziz says. “I always told them, ‘You are from Libya, but you are here now. We try to be a part of the culture here too, but we don’t forget our culture.’”
The family is especially grateful for their Beaverton community partners:
Neighbors
Muslim Educational Trust
Beaverton School District
Beaverton City Library
Community Action
And, of course, MFS
A Shared Future
This spring, Heba and Aziz joined millions worldwide in observing Ramadan and celebrating Eid. They also continue to give back locally.
“We give food to a charity in our community — people here in Portland, who are from all over the world: Somalia, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Palestine,” Heba says.
“We are bonding with the community.” — Aziz
A Testament to Resilience
As we celebrate Arab American Heritage Month, we draw inspiration from families like Heba and Aziz’s. Their resilience, generosity, and cultural pride enrich American society and embody the transformative power of community.