DETROIT — Barack Obama’s presidential campaign held its grand opening of their Michigan Headquarters on Wednesday at the offices of the The Detroit Federation of Teachers, 2875 West Grand Boulevard.

Hundreds of supporters gathered to sign up as volunteers as elected officials expressed their support as campaign workers distributed hot dogs and information.

A grand opening event at the campaign’s new Dearborn office was scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m., at 10415 West Warren Avenue.

A group of young Arab American supporters of Obama said that despite disappointment in the campaign among many in the community, their enthusiasm remains high.

 “We’re ready for change,” said Hana Alqadhi, 20.

“We’re ready to leave Iraq.” said Amal Shohate, 25.

The removal of a woman wearing hijab from within camera shot of Obama by some campaign workers at a recent rally in Detroit has alienated some Arabs and Muslims. The incident lengthened a list of frustrations for many in the community, including the senator not having reached out to Arab American leaders, and his frequent meetings with lobbyists for Israel.

But supporters at the Wednesday gathering said they understand.

“He’s just trying to be cautious. He doesn’t want to put himself out there,” said Shohate.

“Since all eyes are on him, and his middle name is Hussein,  he’s hesitant to reach out to the Arab community and we all know how the media works,” said Shohate’s twin sister Abtasam Shohate, 25. “He relates to the Arab American struggle… We’re confident that he will reach out to the community.”

“If not now, then when he’s president,”?said Amal Shohate.

Abtasam Shohate believes there would have been more Arab Americans at the event if it wasn’t announced on short notice.

“There should be more Arab American support. We stand a better chance with Obama than McCain,”?she said.