New York, NY – The 9th Annual New York Arab-American Comedy Festival (NYAACF) will take place October 18-20, 2012. “Our goal has always been to use comedy to counter negative perceptions of Arab-Americans and define our community in a fair and accurate light,” explains cocreator/co-producer and comedian Dean Obeidallah. “We created the festival as a direct response to 9/11 and the backlash against the Arab community in its wake,” Obeidallah continues. “Our mission is even more critical right now, during what might be the most challenging time for the Arab-American community since the months immediately following 9/11.”

"We are also going to tackle the election and maybe have one of the candidates make a special appearance to swing the Arab vote. Keep an eye out for #Arab2012," quips Zayid.

Some of this year’s hottest acts include: Joe Derosa (“Louie,” new Comedy Central album: "Return of the Son of Depression Auction"), Mike Bateyah (“Breaking Bad,” “Don’t Mess With the Zohan”), Aron Kader (Comedy Central's "Axis of Evil" special), GoRemy (Comedy Central record: "The Falafel Album," YouTube sensation).

The standup comedy shows are to be held October 18-20 at The Gotham Comedy Club. For tickets and a schedule of events, please visit www.arabcomedy.org

Press inquires please contact Jules Feiler - The Pitching Staff PR. Email: julesfeiler@thepitchingstaff-pr.com