Pakistan Day Parade

The Pakistani population in both New York and New Jersey represents one of the largest ethnic communities in the United States today. With so many members of the community living in such a close proximity, community leaders come together to celebrate Pakistani independence over the course of two weeks in August. This year marks that 57th annual celebration of this event. Although there are a myriad of activities and events that encompass this independence celebration, none is more important than the Pakistan Day Parade.

• In 2004, the parade took place on August 22nd and was the most important feature of the Pakistani celebration.
• Mayor Bloomberg noted that this parade was the largest of its kind
• The City estimated that more than 50,000 Pakistani and Pakistani-Americans attended the event throughout the course of the day.

The event, which is held in central Manhattan each year contained more than 30,000 participants this year. Pakistan Senate chairman Muhammad Mian Soomro flew in form Pakistan to head the parade as the grand marshal and the Mayor of New York City made an appearance to celebrate the beginning of the parade. Before heading the parade, Muhammad Mian Soomro spoke to the crowd about the achievements that have been made by the Pakistani community over the course of the last three decades. The speech was intended to uplift the spirits of the participants and showcase the incredible bond that exists between those in this particular community.

What is perhaps most interesting about this event is that it represents the largest of its kind that takes place in New York City. With a wide range of ethnic populations in the region, it would seem reasonable that a number of ethnic groups would be able to develop equally stunning spectacles of ethnic solidarity. However, despite the incredible diversity that exists in New York, it is the Pakistani population that appears to present the most formidable presence in the overall community. The parade and all of the events surrounding the parade are an integral part of the celebration of ethnic identity for the Pakistani community.