Inaugural Gathering Marks Hazara Community’s Unity and Vision in Minnesota
Published on Thursday, July 18th, 2024
Written by Hussain Ali Haidari
On Saturday, July 6, 2024, the Hazara community of Minnesota came together for a historic gathering at a park in Bloomington, marking the commencement of a new chapter in their journey as a community. Over 100 individuals, spanning different ages and backgrounds, congregated to celebrate their cultural heritage and lay the foundation for a unified community presence in the state.
The event commenced with participants forming circles amidst melodic tunes, creating an atmosphere conducive to heartfelt conversations about their experiences living in Minnesota. While many attendees were meeting for the first time, others were pleasantly surprised to reconnect with friends and acquaintances whom they had lost touch with since the destabilization of Afghanistan in 2021.
Children enjoyed the playground, adding youthful exuberance to the gathering, while dancing became a spontaneous expression of joy as youth and couples moved to their favorite beats, accompanied by enthusiastic clapping from the crowd.
A pivotal part of the event was the introduction session, where each family took the stage to share their stories, including their Minnesota residences, professions, and the duration of their stay in the state. This segment, though time-consuming due to the number of families present, underscored the diversity and shared experiences within the Hazara community.
Following the introductions, the gathering transitioned into a potluck dinner, where families proudly shared homemade dishes that reflected the culinary richness of Hazara culture. This communal dining experience not only highlighted the community’s hospitality but also fostered deeper connections among participants.
The event culminated in agroup photo capturing the spirit of unity and the announcement of plans for future gatherings throughout the summer, reinforcing a commitment to continued engagement and community building.
Vision for Community Empowerment and Advocacy
During the introspective moments of introduction, participants articulated a collective vision for establishing an organization to represent and advocate for the needs of the Hazara community in Minnesota. Key themes emerged:
· Community Representation: Participants emphasized the necessity of a unified voice to coordinate community initiatives and address shared challenges that require collaborative efforts.
· Advocacy for Hazaras: There was a resounding call to advocate for Hazaras in Afghanistan, who continue to face systematic oppression and persecution. The organization aims to amplify their voices and support their rights.
· Intercommunity Relations: Participants highlighted the importance of building strong relationships not only within the Hazara community but also with other Afghan ethnic groups and refugee communities in Minnesota. They expressed a desire to foster mutual understanding and collaboration.
· Integration and Active Participation: Recognizing the significance of integration into broader society, participants affirmed their commitment to becoming active contributors to their new home. They underscored the importance of engaging with the host society and contributing positively to their communities.
Looking forward, these discussions will continue in upcoming meetings, many of which will be conducted online to ensure widespread participation. The community will deliberate on the structure and goals of the organization, aiming to effectively meet the evolving needs and aspirations of the Hazara community in Minnesota.