In a letter to the editor, Jersey Metropolis resident Arjumand Juweria explains what it’s prefer to have a good time Muslim Heritage Month, which is well known in January, all through Hudson County.
Pricey Editor,
My identify is Arjumand Juweria, a pharmacist, devoted group activist, and long-time resident of Jersey Metropolis.
I’m honored to have obtained the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from former President Joe Biden, the New Jersey Governor’s Medallion Award from Governor Phil Murphy, and the Girls of Motion Award from Jersey Metropolis.
Subsequent month, I may even obtain the George H.W. Bush Every day Level of Gentle Award for my dedication to group service.
On April 30, 2023, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy formally declared January as Muslim Heritage Month in New Jersey.
This initiative was championed by key sponsors, together with Senator Angela McKnight on the state stage, County Commissioner Invoice O’Dea from Hudson County, Jersey Metropolis Mayor Steven Fulop, and Ward B Council member Mira Prinz-Arey, all of whom performed essential roles in passing this vital decision.
I lengthen my heartfelt gratitude to Hudson County Government Craig Man, Chairman Anthony Romano, and all Hudson County commissioners, in addition to the Jersey Metropolis Metropolis Council members and mayors throughout Hudson County for his or her help in recognizing this vital month.
Because the advocate who launched and promoted Muslim Heritage Month throughout the 12 cities of Hudson County, I’m proud to report that 9 cities have efficiently adopted this decision, with 3 extra presently within the course of.
This achievement has been made potential via persistent outreach, together with numerous emails, cellphone calls, and conferences with mayors and council members, reflecting our dedication to celebrating our numerous cultures.
I need to give particular because of all mayors, council members, and commissioners for his or her help in passing these resolutions of their cities.
Since June 2024, I’ve devoted my efforts to organizing initiatives that elevate consciousness and appreciation of Islam.
These initiatives embrace “The American Muslim Story,” a timeline of Muslim civilization’s improvement, notable mosques, distinguished Muslim figures, and their contributions to society, alongside intensive work about Islam.
This beneficial data has been displayed at varied occasions all through Jersey Metropolis throughout Muslim Heritage Month.
In January, I organized 5 impactful occasions to commemorate our Muslim Heritage Month:
1. **Metropolis Corridor Proclamation**: On January twenty second at 11:00 a.m., we gathered at Metropolis Corridor for a ceremony the place Jersey Metropolis Mayor Steven Fulop issued a proclamation for Muslim Heritage Month.
Elected officers and group leaders had been honored for his or her longstanding contributions to our metropolis, recognizing the important position they play as pillars of our group.
2. **Hudson County Board of Commissioners**: The second occasion happened on January twenty third at 4:30 PM on the Hudson County Board of Commissioners workplace.
Commissioner Invoice O’Dea, a main sponsor for Muslim Heritage Month, issued a proclamation recognizing the important contributions of group leaders all through Hudson County. Particular because of County Government Craig Man, Chairman Anthony Romano, and all commissioners for his or her help.
This occasion was a testomony to the collaborative spirit of our native authorities in fostering inclusivity.
3. **Dickinson College Celebration**: The third occasion occurred at Dickinson College on January twenty eighth, the place I partnered with Principal Gekson Castillas and the Muslim Membership.
From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., this system featured Quran recitations, speeches from elected officers and group leaders, and scholar displays on the importance of Salah and Islam.
The occasion additionally showcased Islamic literature, a hijab station, and scrumptious meals, making a vibrant ambiance of studying and cultural trade.
4. **Hudson County Group Faculty**: The fourth occasion was held at Hudson County Group Faculty, the place I collaborated with Vice President Nicholas A. Chiaravalloti and Assistant Dean Veronica Gerosimo.
This profitable gathering included Quran recitations and friends comparable to Chairman & Commissioner Anthony Romano, Commissioner Invoice O’Dea, Ward B Councilwoman Ms. Mira Prinz-Arey, Group Chief Mr. Ahmed Shedeed, Professor Qamar Riaz, Group Activist Hussain Choudhary, Group Chief Mr. Prince, Girls Caucus Chairwoman Ms. Tammy Henry, and Group Chief Tom Zuppa.
We additionally held movie screenings and cultural stations, comparable to henna and hijab shows, drawing tons of of attendees who appreciated our efforts in selling understanding and unity.
5. **Share thy Meal with Your Neighbor Day**: This yr On January thirty first, however yearly determined 1st Friday of every January month every year, I initiated “Share thy Meal with Your Neighbor Day,” encouraging the Muslim group to arrange and share meals with their neighbors.
This initiative, grounded within the Quranic worth of sharing, goals to foster connections inside our group. I urge everybody to speak any dietary restrictions whereas sharing meals, guaranteeing that we create an inclusive expertise for all.
As we glance to the long run, I plan to broaden these initiatives to varsities, faculties, universities, and spiritual establishments throughout Hudson County.
I’m notably desirous to collaborate with mosques, colleges, and faculties to boost our Muslim Heritage Month occasions, making a extra vital affect inside our group.
I lengthen my heartfelt appreciation to all mosques, Imams, Board members and residents of Jersey Metropolis and Hudson County for making this occasion successful.
This celebration of Muslim Heritage Month is not only about recognizing our historical past; it’s about embracing our current and constructing a brighter future collectively.
I want to specific my honest gratitude to all mayors and council members throughout the 9 cities of Hudson County for his or her unwavering help, in addition to to Yeurys Pujols, Ms. Saliha, and Ms. Angela for his or her invaluable help all through this journey.
Allow us to proceed to work collectively to foster understanding and appreciation amongst all communities!
I might additionally like to offer particular because of my husband, with out whom I couldn’t have made this occasion potential, and to all of the volunteers who helped make sure the success of those occasions.
Sincerely,
Arjumand Juweria
Pharmacist & Group Activist
Jersey Metropolis, NJ
