NEWYORK: Council of Peoples Organization (COPO) alongside various mosques, Islamic centers, and Muslim community groups organized a magnificent Muslim Day Parade in New York to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence under the theme “United by Faith, Diverse in Culture.”
The parade commenced at 38th Street and Madison Avenue, began with a recitation from the Holy Quran.
A large number of New York residents hailing from various Muslim countries across the globe participated in the parade.
On this occasion, various performers presented “Nasheeds”, “Naat”, “Durood-o-Salam” in their unique styles.
Participation in the Muslim Day Parade was not limited to Muslims alone; state officials, representatives of the city government, and employees of civic institutions also took part enthusiastically.
At the start of the parade, smartly turned-out contingents of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) performed their traditional march and offered a salute.
Muslims from various countries participated while waving the flags of their respective homelands, conveying a beautiful message of unity, solidarity, and brotherhood.
Head of the social organization COPO and a key organizer of the parade Mohammed Razvi along with Imam Tahir—a Muslim chaplain for the NYPD—addressed the participants.
They noted that people of diverse faiths and nationalities from around the world reside in America, and by participating in today’s Muslim Day Parade, everyone sent a clear message: “we are all one.”
Despite forecasts of inclement weather, rain, and storms, the enthusiasm and fervor of the Muslim Day Parade participants were remarkable.
Students arrived from various schools, mosques, and Islamic centers in approximately 20 buses.
When the time for the Dhuhr prayer arrived, the call of “Adhan” echoed through Manhattan, followed by the congregational prayer.
Participants began their march under the leadership of Mohammad Rizvi, Ain-ul-Haq, US officials, and other parade organizers.
Earlier, Assemblyman Robert Carroll, a representative from New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office, and a female commissioner from the city administration addressed the gathering, praising the efforts of COPO and the Muslim community’s role in the city’s development.
Floats depicting the Baitullah (Holy Kaaba), the Green Dome of Medina, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque (Bait-ul-Muqaddas)—symbolizing the Muslim faith—were the center of attention during the parade. Upon reaching the designated venue, the parade transitioned into a formal rally, where the US national anthem was played.
Addressing the participants, State Senator John Liu, Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte, and others remarked that the participation of people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds had created a beautiful bouquet and hoped it would continue to spread its fragrance.
The event was attended by various Muslim officers, including Adeel Rana—the first inspector of Pakistani American in the NYPD, as well as Deputy Inspector Waheed Akhtar (President of the Muslim Officers Society), Deputy Inspector Owais Khanzada, and Deputy Inspector Misbah Noor. Muslim officers also addressed the parade participants. Speakers expressed pride in their identity and called for equal rights for all.
People from all ages, especially children, the elderly, youth, and women participated in the parade in large numbers, enthusiastically showcasing their religious and cultural heritage.
Addressing the participants, community leaders united to convey an exemplary message: “Peace and love for all, hatred toward none,” winning everyone’s hearts.
Head of the social organization COPO Mohammad Rizvi thanked the guests and participants for making the parade a success despite the rain.
The entire COPO team received citations from the New York City Mayor’s Office, while Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte presented a citation to the parade organizer, Ain-ul-Haq. Ain-ul-Haq also expressed his gratitude to everyone.
Later, renowned Syrian singer Wajdi Ayoub captivated the audience by performing a “Nasheed” with his distinctive voice and style.
