Pakistani Americans from all walks of life gathered on April 10th, 2023 to celebrate diversity and interfaith harmony at the 1st Diversity Gathering, which is organized by PASWO, Pakistan Christian Association of USA & Pakistan Americans Community.
The event, held at the local hall of community here in Brooklyn, was attended by community leaders, activists, and distinguished guests from various faiths and ethnicities.
The program began with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Dr. Attaullah Khan, followed by a Christian prayer recitation by Pastor Gilford Manrose, a Hindu prayer by Mrs. Usha Baria. The Sikh community was represented by Ramandeep. The event highlighted the richness and diversity of the Pakistani American community, showcasing the importance of interfaith dialogue and understanding.
The gathering included the national anthems of both Pakistan and the United States, highlighting the unity and harmony between the two nations. Mr. Abdul Rauf Bhally, in his welcome address, emphasized the importance of diversity and interfaith harmony in society. Darshna Baria presented the significance of diversity in society and Mr. Ruhail Dar, the President of PMLN USA addressed the community on diversity values.
Mushtaq Ahmed Kamboh, the interfaith harmony leader in Pakistan Community, shared his views on the importance of unity in diversity. Mr. Talath Mehmood Gondal, a representative from the consulate general of Pakistan, emphasized the message of interfaith development. Dr. Sima Karetnaya, the U.S. Representative in UNO, praised the initiative of the diversity gathering by Pakistani American community.
Turquoise Haskin, the candidate for civil court judge, shared her views on the importance of diverse cultures in society. The councilwoman of New York City addressed the community members on the significance of diversity.
The event also included speeches from other community leaders such as Mr. Pervaiz Iqbal, the president of the Pakistan Christian Association of USA, Mr. Mazhar Abdullah, a community activist, Mr. Hashmat Barkat, President of Minority Wing for PPP USA, Mr. Sadaqat Sardar, a community leader from Philadelphia, Mr. Tony Javed, Ms. Tahria Din, PTI Leader of New York Mr. Qaiser Bhutta, and Dr. Atia Shahnaz.
William Shahzad, the chairman of the Pakistan Christian Association of USA, represented the Christian leadership in the community. Pastor Gilford Manrose, the director of community affairs of New York City, addressed the gathering as the keynote speaker at the event. Vajeesh Partab, the Pakistani American Hindu Leader, gave words of thanks to the participants and distinguished guests.
The 1st Diversity Gathering 2023 was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of diversity and interfaith harmony in society. The event brought together people from different backgrounds and faiths, emphasizing the need for unity and mutual understanding. The Pakistani American community has taken a bold step towards promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding, setting an example for others to follow.
In the closing ceremony, Council Woman of NYC Farah Lious, Pastor Gilford Manrose and the Representative of the Consulate office Mr. Talath Mehmood awarded citations to the organizing members of the event for their efforts in promoting diversity and interfaith harmony. The citations acknowledged their contribution towards bringing the community together and promoting a culture of acceptance and mutual respect.
The organizers expressed their gratitude towards the participants and distinguished guests for their support and presence at the event. The 1st Diversity Gathering 2023 ended on a high note, with the hope of bringing more people together in the future to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.
