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Pakistan to Canada: A Journey – A Canadian of Pakistani origin shares his experience
12-03-2014
On November 30th 2014, a brief and informal Book Release Reception took place at Mr. Farooq Rai’s residence. Having the opportunity to read the book, the Consul General of Pakistan, Dr. Mohammad Tariq, who attended the event, expressed his appreciation of Mr. Rai’s excellent work. Executive members of community organizations along with media personnel were invited with key notes delivered by various members of the community including Dr. Babra Rana (Pakistan Women’s Association), Mrs. Nuzhat Malik (Bazm-e-Khawateen), Hamza Malik (Youth Council). And, whilst it is common for politicians and dignitaries to preside over such events, none where invited as executive members of youth and women’s community organizations were given the honour to present the book.
Also at the event, Pakistan-Canada Association’s (PCA), General Secretary, Mr. Raza Mirani, made the following statement:
“On behalf of the board, trust, and membership of Pakistan-Canada Association, I express my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the completion of your book. Your book serves as an inspiration to us all and a unique sense of pride in your accomplishments is shared through the Pakistani-Canadian community… Pakistan-Canada Association also wishes to acknowledge the outstanding contributions you have made to the greater Canadian community... Your selfless efforts have garnered you admiration and respect amongst individuals in the highest seats of power… Your thoughtful dedication to the cause of Islam and Pakistan has countered an otherwise unrelenting attack on our shared faith and heritage… Pakistan-Canada Association humbly stands at your side as you engage in efforts to place your book in as many hands as possible. Sharing your story and the story of Pakistani-Canadians in British Columbia with young and old alike is a duty not to be taken lightly and one that will be supported with every ounce of effort as can be mustered.”
Also of PCA, Mr. Jamil Chaudhry expressed his sentiments and some suggestions for future initiatives pertaining to the book. His thoughts were appreciated.
Likewise, Mr. Haseeb Waraich of the Pakistani-Canadian Cultural Association (PCCA) presented a commemorative plaque on behalf of President, Mr. Naveed Waraich with their appreciation and best wishes. The PCCA was equally vocal and strong in their support and encouragement of Mr. Rai, whereby, speaking warmly about his efforts and contribution for the good of the community were Mr. Iftikhar Ghumman, and Ms. Sehrish Chatha (Youth Delegate).
At the event, President of the Canada Urdu Association, Mr. Mohammad Rafiq, made the following statement:
“I congratulate Farooq from the bottom of my heart for the publication of this landmark. In each community there are people who stand a cut above. Farooq Rai is one such person among the “Canadians of Pakistani Origin.” In this term, Farooq has given the community a respectable identity. I have known Farooq for over a quarter of a century. Apart from advancing his career here, he has been instrumental in furthering the causes of the community wherever he had an opportunity… He is one of few visionaries of our community and has shown direction to success to many… In that sense, he is a true leader of a community which is trying to make its place in the Canadian cultural mosaic. His book is legendary and should be protected as a heritage of community of Pakistani origin… I congratulate Farooq Rai again for this landmark achievement which would mean a lot to the children of our community and would help them make a specific identity as Canadians of Pakistani Origin as we need it now more than ever.”
Mr. Rai was visibly moved by the kind words and expressed his gratitude to all in attendance. He presented commemorative gifts along with his book. He also included a booklet written by his late father, Rai Mumtaz Ali Khan, published in 1940, entitled “Bayad-e-Iqbal” or In Memory of Iqbal (Allama Iqbal).
Mr. Rai also stated that, “my book is no big deal, but simply a catalyst. If writing about my experiences can motivate others to do the same or to do whatever they think is warranted, then at least the momentum is not lost to continue our efforts for the betterment of the community.” Thus, sparking further discussion regarding future community initiatives involving youth and women and the need to preserve our unique culture and heritage.
He also shared that he put a fair amount of time and resources in publishing a few copies free of charge and has committed to donating copies to public libraries. However, Mr. Rai will leave it up to the community to pursue further options of printing additional copies, if so wished. Based on their expertise and background, Mr. Mohammad Rafiq and Mr. Raza Mirani were asked to look into options for publication of the book, as they welcome input from others. Mr. Rai made it clear that he will not consider taking any money even to recover costs.
Concluding the event, Mr. Rai also took the opportunity to share the following points:
1) All community organizations should work together in co-operation and collaboration with each other as a united and positive front for the good of the community, whereby, harmonious trustworthy alliances are fostered and promoted in order to achieve common goals, aims and objectives. Such unity is a source of strength and support for the community and must extend beyond mere words in order to achieve effective action.
2) We must include the voices and agency of youth and women in all community affairs ranging from leadership to decision-making. The participation and involvement of youth and women should be meaningful and genuine rather than mere token recognition.
3) We should encourage and pursue initiatives that promote and preserve our unique identity and values. We also should be more mindful to present our religion, culture, and heritage in a more positive light amidst erroneous and biased misinformation.
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