MUSLIM MAYOR OF DEARBORN TELLS CHRISTIAN MINISTER HE IS NOT WELCOME IN DEARBORN

By Bob Walsh

 

Osama Siblani (second from right), publisher of the Arab American News and cofounder of the Arab American Political Action Committee, stands with supporters underneath a Wayne County street sign in Dearborn with his name on Warren Avenue and Chase Road, on September 8, 2025.

 

 

Ted Barham spoke at a city council meeting in Dearborn, Michigan on September 9.  He objected to the placing of two signs on a road (county jurisdiction, not city, though the ceremony was attended by city officials) honoring Osama Siblani, the publisher of the Dearborn based, Arab American News.  There was no vote taken before putting up the signs.  The county authorized it.  The signs are honorary and do not actually rename the street.

Barham spoke calmly, asserting that Siblani sympathized with violent middle eastern groups.  Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, 35, went off on him, calling him a racist and asserting that he is not welcome in Dearborn.  He also said he would throw a parade when Barham leaves.  

Nagi Almudhegi, 50, is running against Hammoud in the upcoming mayor's race in Dearborn.  He jacked Hammoud up for getting on Barham, pointing out that Barham spoke "respectfully and courteously."

Dearborn is the 7th largest city in Michigan and has a huge Muslim population, mostly Arab.