Family history is a fascinating and personal way for everyone to better understand who they are and how our past has shaped us. Genealogy also helps to reveal and strengthen connections between individuals and communities. But how do you get started?
Join the NYG&B and guest speaker Reem Awad-Rashmawi for a look at the key essentials for beginning your genealogy journey; resources and tips specific to conducting Arab American family history research; and how you can preserve your own New York family stories.
Participants can join us in person at the NYG&B New York City office or virtually. This is a free program, but registration is required.
Speaker Bio
Reem Awad-Rashmawi, JD, is a professional genealogist and community historian who has been researching her own family for over 30 years. She is also an immigration attorney with over 27 years of experience representing clients in U.S. immigration matters.
Reem specializes in Arab and Arab American genealogical and historical research, as well as U.S. records research, oral history, DNA analysis, adoptee and unknown parentage cases, and dual citizenship documentation. She is the founder of Photographs and Memories by Reem, through which she provides professional genealogical services, and the National Society for Arab and Arab American Genealogy (NSAB), where she currently serves as president. She also serves on the board of the National Genealogical Society (NGS), currently chairing the NGS Genetic Genealogy Working Group.
Reem holds degrees in International Relations and Sociology from UC Davis, a JD with a focus in international law, and a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University. She has completed advanced genealogical training and lectures nationally, including recent presentations on Arab genealogy at RootsTech 2024 & 2025, the Arab American Public History Conference, and the Oral History Association Annual Meeting.
This series is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
