Commemoration of 9/11 by Council of Pakistan at Islamic Center Yorba Linda
The Council of Pakistan recently organized an event “Making Communities Safe” in commemoration of 9/11 at the Islamic Center of Yorba Linda.
Speakers from diverse backgrounds participated in the event. They included Dr Hashmi, Consul General of Senegal Mame Mbaye, Consul General of Sri Lanka Swarna Gunarante, Deputy Consul General of Pakistan Shoaib Sarwar, Mayor of Yorba Linda Gene Hernandez, Mayor Pro-Tem Yorba Linda Tara Campbell, Council member of Artesia Ali Sajjad Taj, Los Angeles Sheriff Candidate Alex Villanueva, LAPD Deputy Chief Horace Frank, FBI ASAC Josh Stone, DHS Brette Steele, and representatives of Sheriff Department, Interfaith Council of Orange County and Los Angeles County.
The large number of attendees present on the occasion represented communities of all faiths, races, and genders. The proceedings began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Dr Ismail Keekeebhaii who was followed by Aali Sharief making the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr Imran Sharief requested a moment of silence in respect of late Senator John McCain.
9/11 is a tragedy which can never be forgotten. Remember and honor the thousands of innocent lives lost in the horrific terror attack on September 11th 2001. It is almost 17 years when we lost nearly 3,000 beautiful souls including men, women, and children. We can never forget our heroes - law enforcement personnel, firefighters, EMT, doctors, nurses, volunteers and individuals from different walks of life.
In his speech Dr Hashmi emphasized that we need to live in peace and harmony. He quoted a verse from the Qur’an: “In the time of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Muslims and Christians used to worship in the same mosque”.
Mayor of Yorba Linda Gene Hernandez discussed measures for making communities safe. He gave the example of the city of Yorba Linda and how they have been successful in making the city safe. The city wants to continue to work with all faiths.
A message of peace and unity was delivered by all speakers.
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