Since the beginning of history, Lebanon has played a distinguishing role in human heritage, as Dr. Abdallah Obeid notes. Indeed, many historians and notable book authors have written about Lebanon. For instance, Paul Morin, a member of the French Academy (1888-1976), asserted, "For two thousand years A.D., Tyr & Sidon, two cities in Lebanon, summarize the entire history of the world." Gabriel Hanoto (1853-1944) expressed, "If Lebanon is not the highest summit in geography, it is one of the highest summits in history."
As a Lebanese individual, Dr. Abdallah Obeid takes great pride in his country's heritage and the Arabic language, their mother tongue. The richness of their heritage prompted Dr. Abdallah Obeid to establish the Arabic Studies program at the University of Ottawa in 1982. Subsequently, he was promoted to the Chair of Arabic Studies in 1986. Over the years, Dr. Abdallah Obeid oversaw and expanded the program, maintaining the role of Director and Professor of Arabic Studies for the next 35 years. During this time, he forged partnership agreements with several universities in Lebanon and the Middle East, creating academic and learning opportunities for students across the Arab world.
In 2012, Dr. Abdallah Obeid was awarded the Queen's Jubilee Medal, followed shortly after in 2017 by the 150th Anniversary of Canada medal for his significant contributions to Arab academia in Canada. Like many Lebanese who migrated to Canada, Dr. Abdallah Obeid successfully blended the richness of Lebanese culture with Canadian culture.
Through the diverse courses offered at the University of Ottawa, thousands of students had the opportunity to learn about the intriguing heritage and values of the Lebanese country, thanks to Dr. Abdallah Obeid's dedicated efforts.
NCCAR is Celebrating November - Lebanese Heritage Month under the patronage of the Embassy of Lebanon, Ottawa.
NCCAR is a not-for-profit charitable organization based in Ottawa, dedicated to fostering greater understanding and knowledge among Canadians about the cultural, historical, and socio-economic realities of the people of the Arab world.
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