Desk Report | Deshi Tribune New York
The Jamaica Bangladesh Friends Society successfully hosted its 23rd Annual Community Iftar and Prayer Gathering in New York, bringing together members of the Muslim community, mainstream political leaders, elected officials, interfaith representatives and Bangladeshi Americans in a spirit of unity during the holy month of Ramadan.
The event took place on Friday evening, February 27, at Sirajee Kabab House in Queens. Organizers said more than 350 guests attended, turning the gathering into a vibrant community reunion.
Among the notable attendees was U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng, along with representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office, the Queens Borough President’s Office, Queens District offices, and the New York City Health Department. Community leaders, media editors, business figures and interfaith representatives were also present.
In her remarks, Congresswoman Meng criticized former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and praised the contributions of the Bangladeshi community as well as the ongoing activities of the Friends Society.
The program began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Hafez Adel Siddique, followed by a discussion on the significance of Ramadan by Imam Hasan Akbar. A special prayer (dua) was led by Maulana Mirza Abu Jafar Beg, Khatib and Imam of the Jamaica Muslim Center.
Guests were welcomed by Fakhrul Islam Delwar, Founder and President of the Friends Society and Secretary of the Jamaica Muslim Centre, along with General Secretary Enayet Munshi and members of the organizing committee.
Brief remarks were delivered by prominent business leaders, community organizers, local representatives and candidates for public office. Representatives from various Bangladeshi American organizations, including cultural, religious and professional groups, also joined the gathering.
The evening featured a rendition of Hamd and Naat by young community member Ridwana Rahman Rahi. The program was conducted by Mohammad Shahidullah and Ismail Hossain Swapan, conveners of the Annual Community Iftar Committee, alongside General Secretary Enayet Munshi.
The annual iftar has become a signature event fostering interfaith dialogue, civic engagement and community solidarity in Queens. Organizers emphasized that beyond breaking fast together, the gathering serves as a platform to strengthen relationships between elected officials and the growing Bangladeshi American community in New York.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity and continued unity within the wider community.
