April 8, 2026
ABPA Announces the Little Palestine Business District in the Village of Bridgeview
The Arab-American Business and Professional Association proudly announces the official recognition of the Little Palestine Business District in the Village of Bridgeview, marking a historic milestone for a community that has been built over generations.
“This is more than just a sign. It’s the recognition of what our community has built over the last 40 years, a thriving Little Palestine Business District. What once lived through our businesses, our families, and our culture is now being seen,” said ABPA President Rush Darwish.
Little Palestine has existed through its people, its businesses, and its culture. Today, that identity is no longer just known. It is now formally recognized as a defined business district.
This recognition builds upon the official designation of April 7 as Little Palestine Day, as recognized by the State of Illinois in Springfield and by Cook County, further affirming the cultural and economic significance of this community.
Bridgeview alone is home to nearly 100 Arab owned businesses, contributing to a broader corridor of more than 200 businesses throughout the Southwest region of Cook County. Together, they represent one of the most vibrant and concentrated Arab business communities in the country.
This recognition is the result of the Little Palestine project initiated by ABPA in 2023, which has included the Little Palestine Business Verification Campaign, the Signs for Little Palestine initiative featuring three Welcome to Little Palestine signs, two in Bridgeview and one in Worth, as well as the official branding and media platforms for Little Palestine, including its logo and digital presence through visitlittlepalestine.com.