The Voice

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Chicago Roundup

Locked and Deserted Batting Cages at Warren Park with Gang Graffiti

Chicago; May 03, 2012: Five-Station Batting Cage at Warren Park is deserted and locked while the Park District website is inviting the residents to practice their swings at this location.

http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/facilities/batting-cages/

The entrances are locked with rusty chains. There is graffiti on information boards which points to gang activity in the area, while adjacent to these cages, junior league was being played with young children frequenting the park.

At an event closer by Senator Ira Silverstein and Alderman Debra Silverstein were informed about this negligence of Park District by this scribe. Both of them took serious notice of this issue and promised to look into the matter as soon as possible.

East-West Perspectives: “Women and the Arab Spring”- Nimmah Nawwab

Chicago;May 16th,2012: Nimmah Ismail Nawab was the speaker at the East-West Perspectives last month. Hosted by East-West University, it is a monthly lecture series to bring intellectuals from all around the world and from diverse schools of thought. Nimah Nawwab, descended from a long line of Saudi scholars, is an internationally-published best-selling poet, editor, writer, photographer and filmmaker. She is actively involved with women and youth empowerment, earning the title “The Voice for Arab Women and Youth.” Ms. Nawwab is focused on leadership, the arts and humanitarian issues as she seeks to build global bridges of understanding.

During her presentation she spoke of her experience with women and youth in Saudi Arabia. She shared stories of human sufferings and social taboos from her part of the world. talking about “Arab Spring” she disagreed with the term. Stressing on her disagreement she said it brought lot of suffering and brutality for the common masses. She read poems from her book “Canvas of the Soul” and responded to the questions from the audience.

Earlier Zafar Malik, Dean of Student Affairs, welcomed the guests and introduced the distinguished speaker.

The Chancellor of East West University, Dr. Wasiullah Khan, was also present at the lecture.

Warm Farewell to Janab Ubai Bhaisaheb of Dawoodi Bohra Community

Darien; May 24th,2012: “I am happy that I came to Chicago. I was a New Yorker!.” said Ubai Bhaisaheb Nooruddin, crossing his fingers in a typical American style, getting a burst of laughter from his followers. He further said,”Chicago will always have a prominent place in my heart.” He insisted by saying he mean it. Janab Ubai Bhaisaheb Nooruddin was addressing selected members of Dawoodi Bohra community, Board of Directors of Al-Masjid-al-Badri, Willowbrook, members of Ismaili and other Muslim communities in Chicago, at a farewell dinner hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Zulfi Saylawala. Ubai Bhaisaheb Nooruddin got his double masters from New York. Prior to dedicating his life as a spiritual leader of Dowoodi Bohra community he was an IT Consultant. He took some revolutionary steps during his stay in Chicago which included; opening the doors of the Masjid to other Muslim communities and also to main stream Americans, building a bridge between his community and the government agencies, developing an interactive teaching method for the students learning Qur’an and religion, starting an incentive bound Qur’an memorizing program (taking student groups for flying in twin engine planes and boat rides at the lake to name some). He is a graduate from FBI’s Citizen Academy and hosted seminars and workshops by Department of Homeland Security at the Masjid in Willowbrook. During his stay in Chicago he also completed his training as a pilot. A very humble soft spoken community leader who won the hearts of not only the members of his own community but everyone else who ever came in contact with him. He completed his tenure in Chicago and left for Mumbai where he will take the charge of the largest Dawoodi Bohra mosque in the world. Speaking at the occasion Mr. Noorudding Taj commended the spiritual leader for his dedication and service to his community. Mr. Sadruddin Noorani submitted appreciation letters to Janab Ubai Bhaisaheb on behalf of the government officials such as City, State and Federal, in which all the government officials appreciated Mr. Ubai Bhaisaheb's contribution to the society and Chicago's Dawoodi Bohra community in particular. Ahmed Abdul Kareem Jangda talked about his association with Obai Bhaisaheb and his experience with him during the classes at FBI’s Citizen Academy. This scribe also appreciated the interfaith initiatives of the respected Imam. Zulfi Saylawala thanked the guests and Obai Bhaisaheb for giving him the honor.

‘Upwardly Global’ reaching out to South Asians

Chicago; May 29th, 2012: A meeting was held last Tuesday between members of South asian community and representatives of ‘Upwardly Global’ in their downtown office. Nikki Cicerani and Rebecca Tancredi from UG explained how the organization can help immigrant community through their Award-Winning free career services aimed at helping new immigrants in adjusting to the new environment and getting them ready for jobs in their respective fields. They said their program which provides career opportunities for immigrant professionals require the applicants must have permanent work authorization, have at least two years of professional work experience, have a bachelor’s degree or higher from their country of origin, should speak english fluently, have immigrated to the United States within the past 5 years, have already achieved basic financial stability. To apply for this free opportunity one can register through the following website:

https://www.upwardlyglobal.org/jobseekers/registration.php

Present at this meeting were Navaid Abidi, Muzzammil, Ramzan Dhanji, Dr. Mujahid Ghazi, Tariq Khawaja and Serena Chen Low (Apna Ghar). They appreciated the efforts of Upwardly Global to empower the communities. They discussed various tools to propagate the information in the South Asian Community. Muzzammil, who has gone through the program, talked about his experience with the organization. It was decided that community workshops on resume writing and job interview will be organized with the help of community organizations.

MEDILL at Northwestern University Highlighted Immigrant Stories and Issues

Evanston; May 30th, 2012: Students from Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University presented their projects on immigrant communities, during an academic meeting in McCormick Tribune Center(MTC), located at the NW Campus in Evanston. Most of the presentations revolved around Iraqi refugees. Other immigrant communities highlighted were Latino, Filipino, African, Russian, Polish, Lithuanian, Bulgarian, Korean and Pakistani. Students who did the presentations were Julianna Nunez, Kirk Vaclavik, Madeleine May, Alexandra Rudansky, Duraid Kassam, Rebecca Nelson, Jessica Floum, Jan Barkalow, Jen Lazuta, Emmanuel Eklou, Anna Radoff, Susan Du, Jaclyn Skurie, Lauren Lindstrom, Stephen Boyle, Alice Li, Ryan Holmes and Jordan Wood. The presentations were done in cooperation with ethnic media and community leaders. Representatives from Africa Today, 4News Media(Polish), Al-Moustaqbal(Arab), Draugas(Lithuanian), Reklama(Russian), Extra(Latino), Pinoy Newsmagazine(Filipino), Urdu Times(Pakistani) and Korea Daily News were also present at this academic meeting. Students answered the questions after their presentations.

Mr. and Mrs. Zafar Malik and Dr. Mujahid Ghazi were also present at this occasion. Alice Li, a student journalist worked on the phenomenon involving the young Pakistani Americans in the Pakistani political movement. She studied Tehreek-e-Insaf and the enthusiasm of youth living in the US supporting Imran Khan and his Movement of Justice.

Summer Brought Pool and Carom Board to Devon Avenue and IQRA’

By Dr. Mujahid Ghazi

Chicago; June 2nd, 2012: Summer brought a new craze of Pool and Carom Board on Devon Avenue and corporate offices. On the Mohammad Ali Jinnah Way segment of Devon Avenue a new joint, next to Data Darbar Restaurant, is attracting young Hyderabadis to enjoy their state of the art Pool and Carom Board facility. Unlike the expensive clubs with the cover charge and expensive hourly rate, 5-Star Club is providing these healthy sports at a very low cost. This scribe has seen smiles on faces of hardworking immigrant youth after they decide to spend a little leisure time during there hectic work schedule.

This scribe also visited IQRA’ International Educational Foundation after Friday prayers and was pleasantly surprised to see its Executive Director Dr. Abidullah Ghazi enjoying a game of Carom with other employees. It is part of healthy environment initiative of the organization. This short break after a week’s hard work helps to bring down work related stress.

5-Star Club and IQRA’ International Educational Foundation are setting up a trend to bring Indo-Pak indoor games to life. There are many stores on Devon Avenue selling Carom Boards, Ludo and other indoor games. It is observed that their sale has gone up during last month. Cricket paraphernalia and equipment are also a hot buy at these stores.

From Fundraisers to Rallies Windy City Have It All

Rallies In Chicago

More than hundred American Muslims, men, women and children, belonging to Hizb ut-Tahrir, gathered in front of the Wrigley Building in downtown to protest against the infamous movie maligning Prophet Mohammad(SAW) and his companions. Speaking at the Rally Dr. Raza Imam said, “ There is no need to defend or protect the Prophet (s) because Allah

already said best things about him: "He is on the highest character" and "We have raised your name." He further said, “ Allah and the angels send their blessings on the Prophet (s), so there is no need to defend or protect the Prophet because Allah took care of that.” He explained, “The world is in crisis today: economic turmoil, massive unemployment, healthcare crisis, and massive foreclosure. The world needs a new solution - we believe Islam is that solution.” He told the audience, “The real issue is to discuss the life of the Prophet (s) and Islam with the Muslims.” He said that this is NOT the first time he was insulted and made fun of, in fact, he was known for his kindness, honesty, generosity,trustworthiness, and mercy but as soon as he criticized the society and spoke out against the tribal chiefs, and criticized the cheating in the markets, and called out against the evil practice of burying baby girls alive, that's when he was called crazy, a liar, a magician, etc. He said, “ So we call the world to learn about the Prophet (s) and learn about Islam as a complete way of life." People were holding banners and Placards with protesting slogans and Hizb ut-Tahrir flags.

In a separate rally Muslims from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh gathered at the corner of Devon and Rockwell streets to protest against the infamous You Tube Video. The Rally was organized by Raja Yaqoob and Ali Bakhtiari. Speaking to the Rally Raja Yaqoob and Saleem Akhter asked the Obama Government to take strict action against the people who are responsible for producing and exhibiting the video. They said this kind of bigotry can not be tolerated. They asked the Muslims of United States to be united and asked them to contact their representatives in the government and record their protest. They said the protests will continue until the US Government take a firm action against the perpetrators. Other speakers also condemned the producers of the video and asked the US government to take measures to stop this kind of insult to any religion.

American Association of Retired Asians(AARA) Raised Funds for Seniors

American Association of Retired Asians was applauded by the community for its services to the seniors of Greater Chicago. Comparatively a very young organization, in its 5th year, AARA has set the record of popularity among the seniors of South Asia. Its famous lunch on Thursdays at Shahi Nihari in Lombard is becoming an icon, an example of best organizational skills, passion and devotion. Apart from this lunch where poets, singers, musicians and other creative seniors present their works, AARA has been very actively involved in educating the seniors on various services provided by the Government agencies and also offer assistance to them when and where the need arises. Anjali Julka daughter of Late Vichitra Nayyar welcomed the guests and talked about the great service the organization was doing for the seniors of the community. Welcoming the guests Ms Talat Khan, Executive Director of AARA, said that she is honored to have them their to support the dream of developing Senior Assisted Living Facility for the retired asians. She said the organization is providing ESL, health awareness seminars and other beneficial programs but, she said, she is proud of the Lunch program on Thursdays, organized in conjunction with Dupage County Department of Aging. She commended Musarrat “Moneek” Khan of Dupage County for helping her in achieving this remarkable mile stone. A documentary envisioning the mission and programs of AARA was projected before I joined Anjali Julka and started raising funds for the organization. Samreen Khan, Senior Advisor to the Governor of Illinois delivered his message to the community. the Governor commended the great work AARA’s board is doing by helping the senior population of the State. Later Sarey Gama fame Farhan Zaidi, The Melody of India Gayatri Patel and The Rafi of Chicago Shehzad Ahmed performed and made the audience to dance on their tunes. Famous Bollywood tabla player Pooran Viyas, Popular Keyboard player Mudassir, great drum player Nadeem and music maestro Rumail Bhatti also gave their top performance for the cause. The passion, the involvement of the audience was memorable.

APPNA Care Day

APPNA Celebrated 2nd Annual APPNA Care Day through out the country. Thousands of people got free flu vaccinations and at some places Hajj vaccinations. Three such locations in Chicago were busy last Saturday to help communities remain healthy. IFS Libertyville medical camp lead by President of PPS Wasim Kagzi saw record number of patients. In the north side of Chicago, at the Pakistan Business Association’s Clinic a team of physicians and volunteers lead by Dr. Mansoor Alam vaccinated hundreds of community members irrespective of color, cast or creed. People who are going for Hajj were also vaccinated at the Westmont clinic.

Metropolitan Asian Family Services(MAFS) Celebrated 20 Years of Service to the Community

Metropolitan Asian Family Services celebrated 20 years of service to the community last Saturday. Speaking at this occasion the President of the Board of Directors Dr. Firdaus Jafry welcomed the guests and the dignitaries. She said “Be generous in supporting the projects of MAFS.” Senior Healthcare Policy Advisor to Governor Pat Quinn Mr. Michael Gelder said, “ Governor Pat Quin is strong supporter of the services MAFS provides to older adults through out the Chicago Metropolitan area.” He added, “ Three more centers during last year is a tremendous accomplishment.” Mr. Jesse White, Secretary of State said, “ We should do whatever we can to help the seniors of our community and to keep their services alive.” Indian Consul of Chicago Mr. N J Kanti congratulated MAFS for completing 20 years of human services. Mary Killough of the Department of Aging, State of Illinois, informed the audience that in Illinois 2 million seniors are being served by the department and the State spends over 800 million dollars on senior services. She said that,”MAFS plays a very important role in providing services to the seniors.” She asked the audience to support MAFS in its projects. Mr. Amrish Singh Gautum said that he feel proud to see the Ex-Patriots of India doing noble deeds in USA. He said “ Together we have to follow the great tradition of love and peace taught by the great leaders of India including Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawahir Lal Nehru, Guru Nanak, Sri Krishan and Sri Ram.” Mr. Karan Sigh Pawar congratulated MAFS for doing remarkable work for the Indian community in Chicago. Dr Gopal G. Lalmalani, President of the Village of Oakbrook said that this organization is truly about services. He commended the work of MAFS and said he is proud of this organization for providing services to the Indian seniors. Ms. Martha of Coalition of Human Services Organizations said “It is a great combination of talented immigrants and local state leaders and politicians who come here to recognize the talent and help immigrant population is providing to grow and achieve what they can achieve.” She added, “ Because of great leadership skills, talent and devotion to human services MAFS is where it is today.” Mr. Narain Patel, Chairperson of 20th Anniversary Celebration event, thanked the audience for supporting MAFS. He said, “Compared to the beginning of MAFS 20 years ago when very few services were provided, now meeting the growing need of senior population MAFS has a wide range of services it provides to the seniors of Indian origin.” Senior Board Member of MAFS Mr. Shankar Prasad Bhatt gave a brief history of his relationship with MAFS and its leadership. He commended Ms. Santosh Kumar and other board members and said, “When you serve humanity, God is always with you.” Mrs Ramesh Goyal commended the organization for its excellent human services work durig the last 20 years. She thanked Meadows Club and Dharishti for helping in organizing the great event. Ms. Santosh Kumar Founder and Executive Director of MAFS gave a breif overview od services provided by the organization. She thanked government organizations and the sponsors for supporting the projects. She said it is after Dr. Firdaus Jafri joined the organizations that the organization has grown tremendously. Adressing the community and the journalists she said, “Please think right. She said the government agencies present here keep a close watch on the expenditure of the money this organization gets from them. If we make mistake they correct it. She further said that MAFS has started many programs when and where the need arises. After few dance performers Mrs. Madan Gulkarni introduced the entertainment program, a musical evening to pay tribute to Late Kishore Kumar. She thanked the sponsors, Jet Airways of India, Medstar, Women’s Doc, National Bankcard and Horizon Medical Center. Kishore’s two sons Ameet and Summit Kumar took the audience on a nostalgic tour by singing Kishore’s unforgettable musical numbers. Prior to this MAFS distributed awards to almost all the distinguished guests including the President of the Board of Directors Dr. Firdaus Jafri for the remarkable contribution they made towards the growth of MAFS.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

ViewPoint Dr. Mujahid Ghazi

IMANA Medical Relief(IMR) Saves Smiles in Sudan and Rejuvenate Communities in Haiti

Last Ramadan I was helping to raise funds for two major organizations. Islamic Relief and Islamic Medical Association of North America’s relief wing IMR. Talking about the projects on Global TV like Geo is one thing and experiencing first hand about these projects is totally a different ball game. Last month I saw a team of volunteer physicians and medical students arriving at IMANA’s head quarter and spending their weekend in packing supplies in big shockproof boxes. Sorting them, checking their expiry dates and classifying them according to the procedures they are going to be used in. Making sure that each category of material is in enough quantity to be used during the surgeries and treatment in Sudan and Haiti.
Dr. Ismail Mehr, President Elect was working with the volunteers at times more than everyone, checking if everything is put in respective boxes or not? Address tags are properly displayed or not? More than 10 of these boxes will be traveling with volunteers as their personal luggage to save the money otherwise spent on expensive courier or cargo service. The volunteers and officials purchased their own tickets. IMR only provide logistic support to its volunteers, with food and water, once they arrive in Sudan or Haiti.

Their ‘Save Smile’ clinic starts in the first week of March in Sudan. This clinic performs surgery on hundreds of Sudanese who suffer from Cleft Palate, a birth defect, which is very common in Sudan. Due to lack of awareness and surgical intervention, these children and adults, suffer throughout their lives and are isolated and annihilated by the society. The volunteer plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and medical students get time out from their busy schedule and travel to Sudan to help these individuals gain self esteem and a chance to live like a normal person. The happiness and empowerment these volunteers bring to the communities is out of this world. There was a young woman who sold her livestock and walked three days with the money to reach “Save Smile” Clinic in Khartoum. She was surprised to see that doctors are Muslim physicians from US who are not charging a penny for their service. Tears of happiness and gratitude came into her eyes after the surgery, when she saw her defect repaired. She got married after few months and is living a very happy life with her husband. A blind 55 years old Qur’an teacher, who lived with the defect his whole life, praised and prayed loudly after he touched freshly repaired lips against the advice of the surgeon Pervez Malik. What is better in life than to serve it to bring a smile to the faces of people who are otherwise ignored and ridiculed by the society?

While Save Smile Clinic will be spreading smiles on the faces of patients and their family members in Sudan, another volunteer team will be working in Haiti to diagnose and treat patients, in a remote town, where people don’t see a regular doctor routinely. Not because they don’t afford it but simply because they don’t have a doctor there. Dr. Nadeemullah, a Board Certified physician in Internal Medicine, Palliative and Hospice care spearheads this project. He takes three or four teams of volunteers every year since the earthquake hit that island. They go with medicines and other materials to help the disease afflicted community.

This year I am also joining the Haiti team. I hope I will bring more information on this project when I come back.

It is not Ramadan but do we have to wait for Ramadan to dig into our pockets and help IMANA Medical Relief’s humanitarian projects in Sudan and Haiti?

To help IMR mail your donations to

IMANA Headquarters

101 W. 22^nd Street Suite 106

Lombard, IL 60148

Ph: 630-932-0000