Source: The Arab American News

http://www.arabamericannews.com/newsarticle.php?articleid=4910

On April 10, 2006 The Arab American News reported, "As the first Arab American to sit on the 3rd Circuit Court of Wayne County, Charlene Mekled Elder knows she plays an important role. Not only does she carry the weight of serious decision making, but she serves as a role model for Middle Eastern women around the globe. Appointed to the Wayne County 3rd Circuit Court by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, Elder embarks on a new phase in her career at the age of 36 — marked by a balanced commitment to her profession, her family, and her community. Also, she is the first Arab American female judge in this circuit to speak Arabic fluently. Elder's press release says she is also the first female Muslim to hold a judicial position in the country. Judge Elder brings to the bench a solid legal background and a diverse upbringing. Wayne County has the largest concentration of Arab Americans outside the Middle East, roughly 350,000 and Michigan is home to approximately 400,000 citizens of Muslim faith."