American Arab Chamber of Commerce Fights for Rights of Hookah Lounges in Chicago
In August 2020, the American Arab Chamber of Commerce was proud to stand up for the rights of 22 Chicago based Hookah Lounge businesses that would have been shut down by an ordinance that was being considered by the City Council of Chicago to prevent the sale of flavored tobacco to minors. When the Chamber met with Aldermen including Ald. Silvana Tabares, the Chamber explained that the Hookah Lounges employ more than 200 people and that none of the flavored tobacco is sold to minors and only used by adults in a controlled setting in the business to enjoy Hookahs. The aldermen immediately adjusted the ordinance to protect the Hookah Business members and save their businesses and employees.
Chamber President Hassan Nijem present a plaque in gratitude to Ald. Silvana Tabares for helping to save Chicago’s Arab owned Hookah lounges and saving more than 200 jobs in the city. Photo courtesy of Ray Hanania
Plaque presented by Chamber President Hassan Nijem in gratitude to Ald. Silvana Tabares for helping to save Chicago’s Arab owned Hookah lounges and saving more than 200 jobs in the city. Photo courtesy of Ray Hanania
