At the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL), we regularly brief US policymakers and congressional staff on the issues shaping US-Lebanese relations.
As a non-partisan, non-sectarian, and independent organization, we aim to provide fact-based analysis and clear context on the developments that matter most. Through this Explainer series, we break down complex issues into accessible insights for a broader audience.
For generations, Lebanese Americans have helped build and strengthen the United States. They have created businesses, cared for patients, taught in schools and universities, served in government and the military, led community institutions, and contributed to cities and towns across the country.
They are proud Americans who care deeply about the country they call home. Many also carry a strong connection to Lebanon and believe that the relationship between the United States and Lebanon matters.
At the American Task Force on Lebanon, we believe the Lebanese American community has an important role to play in building that relationship.
A strong US-Lebanon relationship does not happen on its own. It requires people who understand both countries, can bring informed perspectives to Washington, and are willing to use their experience, relationships, and leadership in service of a shared mission.
That is where ATFL comes in.
A Place to Come Together
ATFL brings Lebanese Americans together from across the country and across different professions, generations, political perspectives, and religious backgrounds.
We call this our broad tent.
Being part of that broad tent does not mean agreeing on every issue. It means recognizing that there are important goals around which we can work together: a sovereign and prosperous Lebanon, strong and accountable state institutions, lasting peace, and a strategic relationship between the United States and Lebanon. These goals are at the heart of ATFL’s key policy priorities.
ATFL is non-partisan and non-sectarian because our mission is larger than any political party, faction, community, or individual. We believe the Lebanese American community is strongest when it focuses on the interests and institutions that can serve all Lebanese people.
There is room in this work for many voices.
There is a place for business and civic leaders who have spent decades serving their communities. There is a place for professionals who can contribute expertise in policy, education, healthcare, finance, technology, diplomacy, and public service. There is also a place for younger Lebanese Americans who want to understand how they can participate and lead.
Turning Community Leadership into Action
Lebanese American leaders have knowledge, relationships, and experience that can make a real difference in Washington.
Through its government relations work, ATFL helps connect that leadership to the policymaking process. We meet with lawmakers and government officials, organize policy discussions, publish research and policy recommendations, and create opportunities for Lebanese Americans to engage directly in the issues shaping the US-Lebanon relationship. (American Task Force on Lebanon)
Our role is not simply to speak. It is also to listen.
We want to hear what Lebanese Americans across the country are seeing in their communities, what concerns them, and where they believe their leadership can have the greatest impact. Those conversations make ATFL’s work stronger and help ensure that Washington hears thoughtful and informed perspectives from the community.
There are many ways to take part. You can join a policy conversation, share your professional expertise, connect ATFL with leaders in your city, mentor the next generation, support our programs, or help us expand our national network.
Young professionals can also become involved through ATFL NextGen, the Rising Leaders Program, and the NextGen Leadership Summit. These programs create opportunities to develop leadership skills, understand how US policy is shaped, and build relationships with policymakers and Lebanese American community leaders. (American Task Force on Lebanon)
You do not need to hold a formal title to contribute. You only need to believe that Lebanese Americans have a role to play in building a stronger relationship between the United States and Lebanon.
Gathering Under the Tent
While our members and friends are spread across the country, the strength of this broad tent becomes most visible when we come together.
This September, we are bringing that nationwide community to the nation’s capital. The ATFL Annual Dinner is more than a celebration of our heritage. It is the physical manifestation of our broad tent. It is where leaders from every corner of the United States gather to reaffirm their commitment to a sovereign and prosperous Lebanon.
The Annual Dinner is an opportunity to meet others who share that commitment, build new relationships, exchange ideas, and see the strength of the Lebanese American community gathered in one room. (American Task Force on Lebanon)
But it is only one way to connect with ATFL.
Our doors are open throughout the year. You can contact us, share your perspective, ask questions, and tell us how you would like to become involved. We will listen because we believe every part of the community has something valuable to contribute.
No matter where you live, what profession you represent, or where you are in your leadership journey, there is a place for you under ATFL’s broad tent.
We invite you to join us and help lead the future of the US-Lebanon relationship.