New York: The New York Police Department (NYPD) magnificently celebrated World Hijab Day, as the Muslim women said that Hijab is not our compulsion, but our pride.
The annual Hijab Day was organized first time by the NYPD and Community Affairs Bureau at One Police Plaza.
The event began with the presentation of the American National Anthem.
A large number of Muslim women from across the city participated in Hijab Day.
NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Community Affairs Mark Stewart and Female Deputy Commissioner Wendy Garcia addressed the participants. They said we should respect each other’s religious beliefs. There can be no better education than respecting differences of opinions, and beliefs.
Police Chaplain Imam Tahir highlighted the importance of hijab in the light of Islamic teachings. He said that in difficult times we seek advice from scholars, and the world should learn from NYPD.
Consul General of Pakistan in New York, Aamir Ahmad Attozai, President of the Muslim Officers Society, Commanding Officer Adeel Rana and Head of Copo Muhammad Rizvi also participated in the ceremony.
They said that celebrating Hijab Day is not only a means to connect each other’s hearts but also to send a message to everyone that there should be no discrimination based on religion or nationality.
In respect of Muslim women, non-Muslim female police officers also participated in the ceremony by wearing hijab. On this occasion, female Muslim officers of NYPD also expressed happiness.
On this occasion, a short film was also presented about the performance of NYPD and the first Hijab Day. The participants said that the New York Police Department is like a bouquet.
