At an Interfaith Iftar event on June 13, 2017, hosted by the Los Angeles Human Relations Commission, a part of the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti and the City of Los Angeles, the Aga Khan Council for Western US was recognized for its services to the community at large.
The function was held outdoors in the courtyard of Los Angeles City Hall as the sun set across the City. Among the over 200 guests were representatives of other faiths and organizations, local politicians and dignitaries from the several Consulates. Making the event unique was the presence of special guest, Mahershala Ali, the first Muslim actor to win an Oscar Award, which he received earlier this year.
Mayor Garcetti was represented by Deputy Mayor Jeff Gorell and Joumana Silyan-Saba, Director, Mayor’s Office of Public Safety, amongst others.
The text of the Award from the City of Los Angeles read:
"On behalf of Mayor Garcetti, this certificate of recognition is hereby presented with recognition of the Aga Khan Council for the Western United States for their contribution to the City and the people of Los Angeles. Your generosity and commitment to shared values of pluralism continue to be exemplary. I applaud your voluntary services that continue to enrich our communities and keep Los Angeles a welcoming city that embraces culture and centuries-long traditions. You are a pillar that shines and that reflects the spirit of Los Angeles."
The Ismaili Choir performed multi-lingual, inspirational pieces that focused on remembrance of the Divine and the unity of Mankind, which set the tone for the event and were very well received by the audience.
The interfaith reflections were presented by Muslema Purmul, Muslim Chaplain, and Varun Soni, the Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California. They complimented the Ismaili Choir in promoting harmony through music and song amongst various faiths. Dean Soni recognized the work of the recently opened Global Center of Pluralism as an example of the work of the Aga Khan Development Network.
A video was then shown highlighting the voluntary services provided to all communities by Ismailis of all ages, showcasing their collaboration with other civil society organizations and like-minded institutions.
Ms. Silyan-Saba, noted that the Aga Khan Council has been a close partner of both the City and of many of the organizations present that evening. She recognized the Council’s contributions “through the arts, through dialogue, through culture, and their commitment of service, from serving homeless individuals, to working on the Special Olympics, to beautification projects, architecture -- and the list goes on”.
The Award was accepted on behalf of the Council by President Muneerah Merchant, who was also presented with another award by The Los Angeles Human Relations Commission.
