World Human Rights USA Inc. hosts second convention with awards and cultural presentation

The purpose of World Human Rights USA Inc. (WHRUSA), a South Asian organization, is to provide resources and counseling to families facing challenges, helping them rebuild and strengthen their relationships. As such, an Oct. 19 second annual convention brought together professionals to highlight its messaging of hope and understanding.

Founder and president of the non-profit Dr. Rafiqul Islam, a Pakistani national, who welcomed attendees to the 2nd Convention and Cultural Show at the Queens Palace in Woodside, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Office of President Joe Biden and other Citations from elected officials for his incredible humanitarian work.

Dr. Islam, whose studies in human rights violations have made him an expert on the cause, brought together a stellar group of professionals for a night filled with speeches about the focal points of human rights worldwide.

With educational opportunities and essential resources to ensure that orphans and disadvantaged children receive all the support, the organization continues providing food to the needy, shelter, necessities, and a pathway to stability for homeless individuals, as well as the incredible work being done.

In his message, Dr. Islam expressed excitement that his group had created such a wonderful organization as Human Rights USA Inc. I am honored to be a part of this organization. As the president, I announce that it’s the second convention and cultural presentation. I welcome all of you to our program,” said the benefactor.

In addition to legal assistance, housing support, and community integration services for asylum seekers and refugees, the body also provides winter services to vulnerable people who do not have a safe and warm place. Financial assistance and logistical support for burial services are also part of the organization’s charitable program.

“I believe that collaboration with the people of New York state and participants will help build a better organization in the world. I want to thank our entire team who supported me during the journey of the different operations to protect the rights of the human, said the humanitarian.

The event organizer, Ambassador Saghir Khan, who is also a business owner, said human rights are a set of principles concerned with equality and fairness.
They recognize our freedom to make choices about our lives and to develop our potential of human beings, said Khan.

Officials at the WHRUSA 2nd Convention on October 19 at the Queens Palace, from left Saghir Khan, Assembly Member Steven B. Raga, President Dr. Rafiqul Islam, two guests, (back row) Suffolk County Legislature Sam Gonzalez, and Japneet Singh, Office of Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.Photo by Tangerine Clarke

Human rights are about living free from fear, harassment, or discrimination. Khan said that human rights can broadly be defined as several basic rights that people around the world have agreed are essential. These rights include the right to life, a fair trial, freedom from religion, health, education, and an adequate standard of living.

“This is what makes human rights universal,” assured Khan, an Office of President Biden Lifetime Achievement awardee.
“I think human rights is something that we cannot overstate. We are living in a time where human rights is a focal point for all our communities,” said Japneet.
Singh, a budding politician who was born in India, alleges that the Indian government is targeting Indian Americans on American soil who are speaking up for human rights, said the Queens communicate advocate.

“We’re all advocating for human rights, it is very near and dear to my heart which is why it’s very important to be here today amongst you, I’m proud to stand in solidarity with your community. I also represent New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams who is also a very big proponent of human rights and standing in solidarity with our communities.”

Thank you once again for all the work you are doing to raise awareness. Let’s continue the fight together, said Singh, who presented officials with Citations from the office of Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.

Speakers also included Assembly Member Steven B. Raga, District 30, the first Filipino American elected to office in the state of New York, who applauded the organization’s work, noting he is proud to represent his South Asian community and provide them with the resources needed to help push for international human rights.

“Human rights are a priority. I am proud to sit on the government’s operations committee that focuses on human and civil rights,” he said.
Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez spoke of the importance of human rights and thanked the 2024 Convention for hosting the event, a benchmark to keep human rights at the forefront. “Treat people with respect, let our children go to school, and be what they want to be. This organization is reinforcing its fight for human rights—not only for Muslims but also for Chinese, Hispanics, African Americans, and everyone.

“This convention will share more knowledge about human rights. It will be done in love and spirit,” said Gonzalez.
Turquoise Hankin, Esq, a candidate for Civil Court Judge in Kings County, Brooklyn, called on attendees to continue celebrating unity, diversity, and togetherness.

“It’s important to work together for peace and protection for humanity, she said, thanking organizer Saghir Khan for presenting her with a WHRUSA and including her office in the second annual event.

Office of New York Mayor, South Asian Liaison, Community Affairs, Sookraine Dhanpat, extended greetings from Mayor Eric Adams
Citations were also sent from the offices of City Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar, and a Certificate of Appreciation from World Human Rights USA, among others.