Dearest Friends, I'm writing to invite you to an event being held this Saturday in what some refer to as "Little South Asia" - Jackson Heights, Queens. This vigil and march, organized by INSAF (The International South Asian Forum) will be confined to an statement of condolence for those innocents who were casualties in Tuesday's attacks. Supported by several South Asian American groups from all across the Big Apple, this event will allow us all to come together and mourn, grieve and help each other heal - while being visible to those that don't recognize we are not the enemy... If you're a organization or group that wants to officially endorse this, please contact me or raza mir at rmir@monmouth.edu as soon as possible. One of the most heartrending aspects of Tuesday's tragedy in New York City is the appalling loss of life that we need to come to terms with. Estimates suggest that of the more than 5000 declared 'missing' in the city, there are around 300 people of Indian origin, 150 people of Pakistani origin, 50 people of Bangladeshi origin, and possibly several other people of South Asian origin. For the moment, they are listed as 'missing', but one must face the reality that there has been tremendous loss of life. The International South Asia Forum (INSAF) is a coalition of individuals and organizations dedicated to the promotion of peace and social justice in South Asia. "South Asians United in Grief," is a condolence rally for all those who died at WTC and other places. Date: Saturday, September 22nd, 2001
This rally is planned to condole not just the South Asian casualties in the tragedy, but every single loss and bereavement, be it in New York, Washington DC or elsewhere. However, it is also intended to communicate that people of South Asian origin are indeed one people, united by culture, and sometimes united in tragedy. Folks that can, please come to this rally. It is extremely important for us to emphasize our common identity as South Asians, especially in light of the pointless zero-sum game of US appeasement being played by South Asian governments. Also, South Asians are now united by the oppression of pointless racism. This is also a space to grieve. We all were left poorer on september 11. BRING A CANDLE, A PLACARD OR JUST ATTEND. Peace & Prayers to you and yours...
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