Independence Day Celebrations (Aug 14, 2004)

In order to celebrate the 57th Independence Day of Pakistan in a befitting manner, the Embassy organized a series of events on 13 and 14 August 2004 including a photographic exhibition, a panel discussion by second generation Pakistani Americans on 'The Significance of Independence Day for Pakistani-Americans,' and a lecture by Professor Adil Najam of the Tufts University Fletcher School of Diplomacy.

The celebrations began on 12 August 2004 with a three day photographic exhibition titled 'Diversity Reigns Unity,' at the Marker Hall of the Embassy by Ms. Farah Janjua. The exhibition was formally inaugurated by Cd’A, Mr. Muhammad Sadiq, on 13 August 2004. Ms. Janjua’s photographs depicted the landscape of Pakistan, and were highly appreciated for the aesthetic and beautiful depiction of the diverse aspects of Pakistan’s national life.

Cd’A, Mr. Muhammad Sadiq in his address on the occasion stated that Pakistan was blessed with vast, varied and fertile land with four seasons, all varieties of crops and fruits, historic places and rich archaeology, and unmatched landscape and highly hospitable people. He stated that there was now an increasing realization among the people to work even harder for the progress and prosperity of the nation, which was evident from the strides that had been made recently, especially in the fields of trade and economy. He paid rich tributes to Pakistani-Americans, and stated that they were highly committed and enterprising people who had attained excellence in the fields of their pursuit through hard work and endeavor.

The main theme of the panel discussion on the occasion was “What it means to be a Pakistani-American.” The young Pakistani-Americans drew upon their own personal experiences to highlight the issues of identity and significance of Independence Day for the young generation. It was followed by open mic for the youth and they were encouraged to express their thoughts and to make comments.

Professor Adil Najam in his presentation focused on the significance of Independence Day for the Pakistani-Americans. He noted that Pakistanis living in the US were an important link between the two countries. Most of the Pakistanis in the US were economic migrants who had made the conscious decision of living in a foreign country. Like all other migrant communities, Pakistanis had also brought with them their own set of values and culture; however the main challenge for them was how to maintain their separate and unique identity in a foreign environment. He said that as a result of technological advances it had become easier to stay in touch with the developments taking place back home and the Pakistani-Americans must remain engaged and must focus on what they could do for Pakistan. He encouraged them to make positive criticism in order to make a positive contribution. The presentation was followed by a lively Q&A.

Images of Flag Hoisting and Independence Day Celebrations (Aug 14, 2004)