Who is Osama Siblani? All About Arab American News Founder’s Legacy

In a milestone that celebrates both a personal journey and a community legacy, Dearborn and Wayne County have officially renamed a portion of Warren Avenue in honor of Osama Siblani, a long-standing figure in Arab American journalism and civic advocacy.

The recognition comes more than four decades after Siblani founded The Arab American News, a bilingual Arabic-English weekly that has grown to become the oldest continuously published Arab American newspaper in the United States.

Siblani, a Lebanese American immigrant who arrived in Michigan in 1976, has quietly shaped the media landscape for Arab Americans since the first issue of his paper was published on September 7, 1984. His work gained renewed national attention this month as images and videos from the street-naming ceremony circulated widely online.

The social media momentum has reframed Siblani’s story as a powerful example of immigrant achievement, press diversity, and community representation. Many celebrated him as a leader who “came with little, built a media institution, challenged media biases, and became a community leader.”

From Beirut to Dearborn: The Making of a Media Voice

Born in 1955 in Beirut, Lebanon, Siblani emigrated to the U.S. during a time of deep political unrest in his homeland. He pursued higher education at the University of Detroit (now University of Detroit Mercy), earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in 1979.

Before entering journalism, Siblani worked in the import-export sector. From 1980 to 1984, he served as Vice President of Energy International, Inc., a Michigan-based firm focused on Middle Eastern trade.

His shift toward journalism was sparked in 1982, following the Israeli invasion of Lebanon. Disturbed by what he viewed as biased coverage in U.S. media, and motivated by a deep sense of cultural identity and personal loss, he felt an urgent need to amplify Arab American perspectives—especially within his growing community in Metro Detroit.

Building The Arab American News

What began as a local publication with modest resources has grown into a nationally recognized media outlet. With articles published in both Arabic and English, The Arab American News filled a critical void in coverage for Arab American communities, offering nuanced reporting on global conflicts, domestic civil rights, and local affairs.

Despite early challenges—limited funding, scarce advertising, and a fragmented readership—Siblani remained committed. Over time, his newspaper evolved into a powerful platform for community advocacy and dialogue. National and international media now frequently turn to him for insight on Arab American issues, and he continues to be a visible presence at community and political events across Michigan.

Public Life and Recognition

Now 70 years old, Siblani remains active as both publisher and civic leader. He co-founded or helped lead numerous organizations including the Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC) and the Congress of Arab American Organizations (CAAO). He also holds board positions, such as with Garden City Hospital.

While he largely keeps his personal life private, it is known that he is married to Raja Siblani, who has stood by him throughout his journey. She spoke at the street-naming ceremony, sharing reflections on the sacrifices their family endured throughout his career. The couple has children, though few public details exist about them.

The street dedication, now labeled “Warren Avenue Dearborn Osama Siblani,” marks a high point in a lifetime of service. Community leaders at the event highlighted his decades-long contributions and the personal toll of balancing public commitment with family life.

Career Highlights & Awards

Siblani’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2010, he received the “Spirit of Diversity in Journalism” award, and in 2013, he became the first ethnic media representative from Michigan inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame.

Despite this public acclaim, Siblani maintains a modest lifestyle and avoids personal ostentation. Though there are no verified figures, his income likely comes from a combination of newspaper revenue, speaking engagements, and advisory roles. However, he is widely regarded as reinvesting much of his time and resources back into his publication and community work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Osama Siblani?

A Lebanese American journalist and founder of The Arab American News, a bilingual weekly that has served Arab American communities since 1984.

When did he come to the U.S.?

In 1976, to pursue education. He graduated in 1979 with a degree in electrical engineering.

Why did he start his newspaper?

Motivated by perceived media bias during the 1982 conflict in Lebanon, Siblani wanted to create a platform that represented Arab American voices fairly and accurately.

Has he received formal recognition?

Yes, including his 2013 induction into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame and the 2025 dedication of a Dearborn street in his name.

Does Osama Siblani have a Wikipedia page?

As of 2025, he does not have a dedicated Wikipedia page. Most verified information comes from news sources, interviews, and The Arab American News.