Paterson City Council Honors Late Sheriff and Celebrates Muslim Heritage
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
01/31/2024
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Recording Published:
02/01/2024
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Duration:
48 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Paterson
- Meeting Overview:
The Paterson City Council recently convened to honor the legacy of the late Passaic County Sheriff Richard Henry Bernik and to celebrate Muslim Heritage Month, highlighting the contributions of Muslim community leaders and addressing key infrastructure projects. The meeting opened with a moment of silence for Sheriff Bernik, whose commitment to the community was lauded by Under Sheriff Narasha and Public Safety Director Jerry Speziale. The council’s focus then shifted to the recognition of Muslim heritage and community contributions, with Aman Abed, the first Palestinian American appointed to a mayor’s cabinet, receiving accolades for his service.
During the celebration of Muslim Heritage Month, the council recognized the contributions of the Muslim community to Paterson. Aman Abed’s achievements, including sponsoring resolutions in support of Palestine and Muslim heritage, took center stage. The presence of three Muslim councilmen, Al Abdelaziz, Shahin Khalique, and Forid Uddin, was also acknowledged, with special attention to the challenges they have faced, such as prolonged debates over the public call to prayer. Assemblywoman Shama Haider, the first Muslim in the state legislature, reaffirmed her commitment to serving the community and urged residents to bring their concerns to her.
Councilman Shahin Khalique delivered emotional remarks, expressing deep gratitude to the Islamic Center and Imam Katanani for their support and influence in Paterson. The councilman also touched upon the renaming of Main Street to Palestine Way, a move aimed at recognizing the city’s Palestinian population and setting a precedent for other cities. He further praised Imam Mohammad Qatanani as an icon for the Muslim community and lauded the efforts to revitalize South Paterson, including the attraction of global brands and infrastructure improvements, such as the repaving of 13th Avenue.
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the key to the city to Imam Mohammad Qatanani by Mayor Andre Sayegh. The Mayor commended Imam Qatanani for promoting peace and solidarity over his 27 years of service in Paterson. In his acceptance, the Imam called for peace and justice in Palestine and emphasized the role of Muslims and Arabs in America as bridge builders. He also expressed his appreciation for the community’s support, which has been instrumental in his work.
Andre Sayegh
City Council Officials:
Michael Jackson, Shahin Khalique, Alex Mendez, Ruby Cotton, Luis Velez, Alaa “Al” Abdelaziz, Maritza Davila, Dr. Lilisa Mimms, MD Forid Uddin
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
01/31/2024
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Recording Published:
02/01/2024
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Duration:
48 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Noteworthy
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Paterson
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