NEWYORK: Pakistan Civic Association of Staten Island celebrated Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day in an impressive manner.
The Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day, organized at Snug harbor culture center, was started with the recitation of the Holy Quran.
The Pakistani American community along with their families participated in the event in large numbers.
The children waved the national flags of Pakistan and USA when the national anthems of both countries were played. The general secretary of the association, Sadia Malik, introduced the president of the association Dr. Khalid to the participants and said that we are a civilized nation and have always tried to take our community forward.
A few moments of silence was observed in memory of the 9/11 tragedy and the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the establishment of peace. On the occasion of Independence Day, small business owners women of the Pakistani community set up stalls of cultural dresses and jewelry.
Addressing participants of the Independence Day ceremony, the President of the Association, Dr. Khalid, said that the Pakistani community has played an important role in the promotion of civilization and inter-religious harmony, including in the fields of education, health, and business.
On this occasion, Dr. Mazhar presented an award and bouquet to renowned cardiologist Dr. Inamul Haq and educationist Dr. Fakhira Haq for their services.
Addressing participants of the ceremony, Dr. Inamul Haq congratulated the community on the Independence Day and said that Dr. Mazhar and Dr. Khalid are like elder brothers to him and the association provided an opportunity for everyone to come together.
Participants of the event also enjoyed music and a local singer sang famous Pakistani song Dil Sil Pakistan.
Administrator of Freshkills park Mark Murphy, who participated in the ceremony, narrated some of his life experiences. He thanked the Pakistani doctors and chanted Pakistan Zindabad.
Pakistani American professionals associated with various departments and departments also participated in the celebration of independence organized by Pakistani Civic Association of Staten Island.
Senior advisor to New York city Mayor Eric Adams, Ahsan Chaghtai said that people will surely get success if they work hard with dedication.
President of the association Dr. Khalid appreciated the role of first inspector of Pakistani origin and president of the Muslim Officers Society Adeel Rana and said that he is the pride of the community.
Addressing participants, Inspector Adeel Rana said that it is the responsibility of leadership to promote mutual relations between communities.
NYC Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks also attended the independence event and appreciated the professional services of the association. She said that the presence of Pakistani professionals in various departments is the proof of the main role of the association.
Assistant Police Chief in the New York Police Department Joseph Gulotta also participated in the event and said that the members of the Pakistani community have achieved important positions in the police as in every sector.
A buffet with various delicious dishes was also served for the participants of the Independence Day event.
Earlier, Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon expressed his opinion and said that he had long relations with Pakistani professionals and it is an honor to participate in the independence day event.
US officials also participated in the Independence Day event and said that the Pakistani community has played an important role in the development of the city and asked community members to contact them to resolve the issues of citizenship, passport issuance and tax return.
The New York Governor’s Office presented a certificate of appreciation to the Pakistani Civic Association of Staten Island, while other prominent personalities participating in the event were also conferred awards.
