Bay Ridge honored the life and legacy of Dr. Ahmad Jaber, the late co-founder of the Arab American Association of New York, on Saturday by co-naming a street in his memory.
The intersection of Fifth and Ovington avenues will now be known as “Dr. Ahmad Jaber Way” — a significant recognition of Jaber’s journey from Palestine to becoming a pillar of support for countless immigrants in Brooklyn.
Community leaders, public servants, and many who benefited from Dr. Jaber’s contributions gathered for the July 27 ceremony to share heartfelt tributes and memories, including Council Member Justin Brannan, who emceed the event.
“Dr. Jaber was exactly the kind of person you would hope to see become a local legend: deeply good, compassionate, and determined to help others,” Brannan said. “His impact is limitless, and his name is eternal.”
From the very start, Jaber was dedicated to uplifting newly arrived immigrants, a commitment that helped shape the fabric of the Bay Ridge community. He emigrated to the U.S. in 1975, where he later started his medical career as a resident at NYU Langone-Brooklyn, formerly Lutheran Medical Center, in Sunset Park. Outside of his practice, he was known for his heavy involvement in the neighborhood.
As the co-founder of AAANY, Jaber’s vision led to vital support systems for immigrants facing adversity. He died in 2020 after a battle with cancer.
“This ceremony is deeply personal for me, as Dr. Jaber was not only a friend and partner but also my brother,” said AAANY President Habib Joudeh. “He made a huge impact on countless lives, and naming this street after him honors his legacy and all the positive changes he brought to our community.”
Jaber’s dedication to Bay Ridge became even more crucial in the wake of 9/11, as he led efforts addressing surveillance, hate crimes and isolation among marginalized groups. Through AAANY, Jaber provided essential medical care, education, social services and immigration support, establishing the organization as a cornerstone of empowerment.
In keeping with Jaber’s spirit, AAANY recently began an exciting new chapter by relocating to a new office and starting a workforce development program that connects immigrants to high-paying jobs and offers job-related training. They also launched three new satellite branches, expanding their reach and impact.
As the name “Dr. Ahmad Jaber Way” illuminates the streets of Bay Ridge, the doctor’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to carry forward his mission of compassion and support for all.
“Dr. Ahmad Jaber was an extraordinary human being and visionary leader,” said Marwa Janini, executive director of AAANY. “From the humble beginnings of a small OB/GYN clinic — where he welcomed some of my siblings into the world — he founded AAANY, transforming it into a source of hope and support for all who enter its doors. Naming this street in his honor is a testament to his enduring legacy.”
