The Honorary Consulate of Lebanon in North Carolina represents over a century of Lebanese heritage and cultural contribution to the state. Since Lebanese immigrants began arriving in North Carolina in the late 1800s, they have enriched the community through their traditions, arts, cuisine, and active participation in business, education, religious institutions, and philanthropic endeavors. The consulate, now based in Durham, NC, stands as a testament to this enduring legacy and the community's deep roots in the state.
Recognizing the growing needs of the Lebanese community, residents petitioned the Lebanese government in the 1950s to establish a consulate in North Carolina. In July 1956, an official decree established the Honorary Consulate in Goldsboro, then a major hub for Lebanese activity. As the community evolved and shifted toward the Research Triangle area, the consulate relocated to Durham to better serve residents across the state.
Today, the Honorary Consulate serves as a bridge between North Carolina's Lebanese community and their homeland, facilitating important governmental matters including documentation, vital records, and official communications. Under the stewardship of Dr. Moise A. Khayrallah, an immigrant who came to North Carolina in 1983 and became a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, the consulate continues its mission of supporting the community's connection to Lebanon.
The consulate in Durham embodies the values of cultural preservation, community service, and mutual support that have defined the Lebanese presence in North Carolina for generations. By providing governmental services and maintaining cultural connections, the Honorary Consulate helps sustain the vibrant Lebanese-American community throughout the state while honoring the contributions immigrants have made to North Carolina's growth and prosperity.
Durham, NC