Neighbor News
Virginia Celebrates 32nd Annual Parents’ Day in Manassas
Local families and community leaders gathered to honor parents and the vital role of strong families in building healthy communities.
MANASSAS, VA — Families, community leaders and friends gathered Saturday, July 18, at the City of Manassas Community Center for the 32nd Annual Celebration of Parents’ Day to honor parents and the vital role of strong families in building healthy communities.
The gathering, hosted by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Pure Style, Inc., opened with an invocation offered by Pastor Natascha Phillips of the CFC NOVA Center, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.
Barbara Moseley-Marks, executive director of the Virginia Universal Peace Federation and founder and president of Pure Style, Inc., welcomed participants and helped lead the program celebrating parents and families throughout Northern Virginia.
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Serving as emcee, Dr. William Selig shared a brief history of Parents’ Day. Established in 1994 and signed into law by President Bill Clinton, Parents’ Day designates the fourth Sunday of July as a national day of commemoration.
This year’s Virginia Parents’ Day Recognition was presented to Partha and Arpita Gogoi, who have been married for almost 25 years.
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The Gogois were recognized for the strength of their marriage, their devotion to their son, and the values of love and mutual respect that guide their family. Their professional and community lives also reflect a spirit of service. Arpita works in healthcare, while Partha is an AI consultant.
In accepting the recognition, Arpita reflected on the different stages of parenthood and the changing joys and responsibilities that come with raising a child. Partha spoke about the importance of mutual respect and love within marriage and family life.
Their son, Arohan, 16, offered perhaps the most touching tribute of the day, thanking his parents “for helping me become the person I am today.”
The gathering also served as a reminder that parenting is a team effort. Grandparents, relatives, teachers, mentors and caring members of the community all have a role in helping the next generation grow in character, confidence and compassion.
The program concluded with lunch, a cake-cutting ceremony, a toast to true love, and renewed gratitude for parents everywhere.
For more information, please visit https://parentsday.com/ or contact Barbara Moseley-Marks at purestyle888@gmail.com.
