Emily Parker :
As the sun dipped below the skyline of Queens on Friday, July 25, 2025, a quiet crowd began to gather at the corner of Hillside Avenue and 169 Street—a modest triangle of pavement transformed into sacred ground for an evening. What followed was not a political rally or public outcry, but something perhaps more powerful: an Interfaith Prayer Vigil uniting hearts across beliefs to mourn the victims of a tragedy that shook lives thousands of miles away.
The vigil was held to honor the lives lost in the tragic incident at Milestone School and College, offering a moment of collective reflection for the victims, their grieving families, and the larger community still reeling from the impact. The event, steeped in dignity and reverence, was organized by the Jamaica Integrated Bangladeshi Officers Network, Jamaica Bangladesh Friends Society, and the Bangladeshi American Police Association—three local organizations recognized for their commitment to civic engagement and community welfare.
Attendees from across New York’s vibrant boroughs stood in unity, many holding symbols of their faith—crosses, crescents, prayer beads, or simply each other’s hands. The diverse assembly reflected the spiritual richness of Queens, home to one of the most ethnically and religiously varied populations in the United States. Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and people of other religions stood shoulder to shoulder, offering prayers not only for the departed but for strength and healing in the face of shared sorrow.
The gathering delivered a message deeper than words—a testament to solidarity in grief and resilience in the face of loss. It became a moment not just of remembrance, but of collective resolve. Faith leaders, families, and neighbors came together not out of formality, but out of an unwavering sense of responsibility to support one another and honor the lives tragically lost.
The names behind the event, including Rased Malik and Mohammed Delwar, were made available for those seeking more information. Their efforts, and those of their respective organizations, were applauded for fostering a space that welcomed people of all backgrounds with compassion and care. In a world often fractured by ideology, the inclusivity of this vigil stood out as a quiet act of defiance against division.
As twilight settled over the triangle at 169 Street, the Interfaith Prayer Vigil left behind more than memories—it left a message. In mourning together, the community affirmed a simple but powerful truth: in our darkest moments, we do not stand alone.
For more blogs, visit nyn.press
