Message from APF President on Fighting Racial Injustice
Dear friend of APF,
In the past few days, an already grieving nation has been forced to reckon once again with the trauma of racial injustice in the wake of George Floyd's tragic murder.
A key component of The American Pakistan Foundation's mission is building bridges between communities. APF affirms its solidarity with the African-American community and the nation during this time of sadness and despair.
It is incumbent upon all of us to do our part in forging a more just and equitable society. The American Pakistani diaspora is deeply committed to this country. Our community resolves to do its share to remove all systemic inequalities from our society.
This tragic incident was far from the first of its kind. The protests sweeping our nation represent over 400 years of pain and frustration, since the first enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to this continent. Furthermore, these events only compound the struggle of the COVID-19 pandemic, the burden of which has fallen disproportionately on marginalized communities.
We should resolve that this moment represents a turning point, where Americans of all origins, creeds, and colors can come together to do the work that needs to be done to fulfill this country's great promise of equality.
APF has always believed engagement, communication and education are the best ways to foster societal unity and tolerance. The need is greater now than ever before. We need to educate ourselves on these issues, and we need to act collectively, no matter where we come from.
I wish you good health and safety during this challenging time for our nation.
Sincerely,
Shamila N. Chaudhary
President, American Pakistan Foundation