Rolando Pablos, Texas Secretary of State, along with members of his staff, visited the Aga Khan Museum and the Ismaili Centre, Toronto. He was received by Vice-President Karima Karmali from the Ismaili Council for Canada and President Nizar Didarali and Samina Hooda from the Council for Central USA.
The January 24, 2018 visit was an outcome of Secretary Pablos’s previous visits to the Jamatkhanas in Plano and Houston as well as his experience at the Rays of Light exhibition in Houston and Austin. These encounters allowed him to view, understand and appreciate the work of Mawlana Hazar Imam and the service efforts of the Ismaili community in Texas.
As he took the tour of the Ismaili Centre, Toronto, Secretary Pablos took a keen interest in the design elements and programming that takes place in the Centre. He was particularly impressed with the circular prayer hall and the play of light through its glass roof.
“I feel a different kind of peace in this Ismaili Centre, similar to what I felt when I visited the centers Houston and Plano,” stated Secretary Pablos.
At the Aga Khan Museum, Secretary Pablos was received by the Museum director, Henry Kim, who provided interesting details about the architecture of the museum and its mission. Secretary Pablos acknowledged the rigorous work required to run a successful museum: “I have worked for a museum so I know how much work it is to sustain a museum and its resources.” Secretary Pablos' visit concluded with the gallery tours and a dinner at Diwan restaurant where he expressed his deep admiration for the work of Hazar Imam. President Nizar Didarali extended his gratitude to Secretary Pablos for his visit and for his invaluable friendship and regard for the Ismaili community.
More about the Secretary of State for the State of Texas
The Secretary of State is one of six state officials named by the Texas Constitution to form the Executive Department of the State. The Secretary is appointed by the Governor, with confirmation by the Senate. The Secretary serves as Chief Election Officer for Texas, assisting county election officials and ensuring the uniform application and interpretation of election laws throughout Texas. The Office of the Secretary of State also provides a repository for official and business and commercial records required to be filed with the Office. The Secretary publishes government rules and regulations and commissions notaries public. The Secretary also serves as keeper of the state seal and attestor to the Governor's signature on official documents.