Pakistani American celebrated Independence Day amid challenges

Pakistani Independence Day observed annually on 14 August, is a national holiday in Pakistan. Pakistani American people in the United States questioned how to commemorate the day safely.

This year the Pakistani independent day celebration is different as America is the worst-hit Country including Chicago and its suburbs by the deadly corona virus leading to the cancellation of events like Flag ceremony Downtown Chicago, Devon avenue Parade, Taste of Pakistan Festival, Bolingbrook and Mera Pakistan Heritage festival.

The pandemic has changed to do few limited celebrations this year in some areas. The Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago hosted a small celebration in the Consulate Office. Where Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago Mr. Javed Ahmed Umrani conveyed President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan message of felicitation to the attendees.

In the message President Dr. Arif Alvi said, “On this historic day, I must pay tribute to our doctors, nurses, health care workers that saved the lives of people by putting their own lives at risk during the pandemic. Additionally, I also deeply admire the role of the media, Ulema, NDMA, NCOC, provincial governments, and law enforcement agencies in creating awareness and helping enforcing the SOPs about Covid-19. The success of the Ehsaas Program underlines the fact that people unite when all segments are taken care of. Our economy is improving in every regard, and I am sure that we have reached a tipping point in this regard.”

In the message Prime Minister Imran Khan said I congratulate the entire nation on 74th Independence Day. This auspicious occasion is a moment to reaffirm our pledge to continue pursuing the vision of Father of the Nation. The day is an occasion to pay tribute to all those sons of the soil who laid their lives while defending and protecting territorial as well as ideological frontiers of the motherland.”

Social distancing was observed among attendees and community members who attended the ceremony.

The Biggest and Private ceremony held in St Charles Illinois where 50 People attended the ceremony was hosted by well-known community members and social activists Miss. Lubna Ejaz and Aijaz Baig. It takes place Saturday, August 15th, 2020, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Mount Saint Mary Park.

The celebration features a fun filled day for all ages, Musical performances by noted and popular artists from Chicagoland. A cake cutting ceremony in connection with 73rd Independence Day celebrations was held also. As the cake cutting commenced, the occasion filled with cheers of “Happy birthday Pakistan and Pakistan ZindaBad.”

The program was very well organized, prestigious and enjoyed by the attendees and will be remembered. A sumptuous Lunch was served for all.