Alexander Michel Odeh
Odeh was a prominent Palestinian-American civil rights advocate and peace activist.
Date of Birth:
1944
Jifna, Palestine
Place of Birth:
Why Featured?
He is remembered for his dedication to advocating for Arab-American rights and his efforts to promote peace and understanding among diverse communities.
Brief bio
Alexander Michel Odeh was a leading figure in the Arab-American community, serving as the West Coast Regional Director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. His life and promising career were tragically cut short by an assassination, marking him as a martyr for civil rights and justice.
Major Milestones
Contributions
Joining the ADC: In 1982, Odeh became part of the newly formed American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, which aimed to combat stereotypes and biased reporting against Arabs.
West Coast Regional Director: He quickly rose through the ranks to become the West Coast Regional Director, working tirelessly to build bridges between Arab-Americans and other communities.
Publication of "Whispers In Exile": Odeh expressed his longing for his homeland and the Palestinian cause through his poetry, notably in the collection "Whispers In Exile."
Prominent Public Speaker: He was a sought-after speaker, known for his ability to eloquently defend Palestinian rights and advocate for peace and justice.
Assassination: On October 11, 1985, Odeh's life was tragically ended by a bombing at the ADC office in Santa Ana, California, marking a somber moment in Arab-American history...See More
Civil Rights Advocacy: Odeh's work with the ADC helped raise awareness of Arab-American issues and fought against discrimination.
Interfaith Unity: Through public speaking and community engagement, he worked towards building bridges between different religious and ethnic groups in Southern California.
Educational Outreach: Odeh's writings and speeches served as educational tools, challenging misconceptions about Arab-Americans and the Palestinian experience.
Posthumous Inspiration: His life and untimely death continue to inspire activists and communities to pursue justice and equality.
Memorialization: Despite the unresolved nature of his assassination, memorials and continued advocacy in Odeh's name underscore his lasting impact on civil rights and interethnic understanding.
Date of Last Update:
September 3, 2024
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