Issac Andrew:
Suffolk County held a landmark celebration on Monday, December 8, 2025, as community members, officials, and faith leaders gathered at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, NY, to mark Muslim Appreciation Day — an event that honored the cultural and civic contributions of the Muslim community across the county.
Organized by the Suffolk County Muslim American Advisory Board, in collaboration with County Executive Edward P. Romaine and the Suffolk County Office of Multicultural Affairs & Community Engagement, the evening featured meaningful remarks, cultural exchange, and expressions of unity in diversity.
Held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the program served as a reminder of Suffolk’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and equity. Members of the Muslim community were recognized not only for their cultural heritage but also for their active roles in education, healthcare, business, civic engagement, and public service.
The Muslim American Advisory Board — chaired by Lamya Elkoulily with Dr. Mostafa Elsehamy serving as secretary — includes members such as Mohamed Elzanaty, Talat Hamdani, Nawab Faridi, Dr. Hafizur Rehman, Sana Nadim, Rafiq Khan, Vilma Santos, and Sadri Altinok. Together, they helped lead the initiative to make this day a meaningful space for reflection and recognition.
The event was supported by a dedicated team from the Office of Multicultural Affairs & Community Engagement, led by Executive Director Sandra Alfano and team members Belinda Padanganan, Angel M. Rivera, Ahkyra Jackson, and Yessica Rivera, among others.
“This was more than a celebration — it was a statement that Suffolk County values the contributions of every resident,” said one advisory board member. “Our diverse backgrounds enrich the county, and events like this ensure all voices are seen and heard.”
Attendees praised the event for fostering connection and solidarity, especially at a time when public recognition of minority communities is more important than ever. Organizers emphasized that the appreciation shown during the evening reflects not only a growing awareness but also a continued commitment to bridge-building between communities and local government.
The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration and civic engagement, encouraging members of the Muslim community — especially youth — to remain active in shaping Suffolk County’s future.
As Suffolk County moves forward, events like Muslim Appreciation Day signal a hopeful and inclusive direction — one where shared values and collective respect define what it means to be a united community.
