A Christian resident was told he was “not welcome” by the city’s Muslim mayor.
The exchange occurred during a heated council meeting in Dearborn, Michigan, last week.
Abdullah H. Hammoud made the declaration to Edward “Ted” Barham after the resident voiced objections to street signs honouring Arab American News publisher Osama Siblani.
The confrontation occurred when Mr Barham, who identified himself as a Dearborn resident, criticised the placement of signs at two intersections on Warren Avenue.
Mr Hammoud’s told Mr Barham: “Although you live here, I want you to know as mayor, you are not welcome here.”
The response stunned attendees who were present.
The mayor added that he would “launch a parade” to celebrate if the Christian were to depart the city.
Mr Barham had accused Mr Siblani of supporting Hezbollah and Hamas during his address to the council.
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A Christian resident was told he was ‘not welcome’ in Dearborn, Michigan, by the city’s Muslim mayor
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CITY OF DEARBORN
He quoted statements attributed to the news publisher, including: “He talks about how the blood of the martyrs irrigates the land of Palestine whether we are in Michigan and whether we are in Yemen.
“Believe me, everyone should fight within his means. They will fight with stones, others will fight with guns, others fight with planes, drones, and rockets.”
The resident likened the signage to erecting “Hezbollah Street or Hamas Street” and described them as “provocative”.
Council members interrupted to caution against “personal attacks” and explained the signs were installed by Wayne County, not Dearborn.
Edward Barham had accused Mr Siblani of supporting Hezbollah and Hamas during his address to the council
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CITY OF DEARBORN
The mayor suggested Mr Barham should avoid Warren Avenue or “close your eyes while you’re doing it”.
He called the Christian “a bigot”, “racist” and “an Islamophobe”.
Barham concluded his remarks by citing Jesus: “Blessed are the peacemakers,” emphasising his desire to promote harmony as a Christian.
The signs, which sparked the debate, were erected in August following approval by the Wayne County commission, with local dignitaries including Hammoud attending the unveiling ceremony.
Dearborn has America’s highest proportion of Muslim residents
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The county, not Dearborn’s city council, authorised the street naming.
Dearborn has America’s highest proportion of Muslim residents.
The incident has raised questions about whether local government officials are prepared to engage with diverse viewpoints from all constituents.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions surrounding cultural and political representation in the Michigan city.
