In commemoration of National Minority Day, the Dominican-run Peace Center in Lahore, Pakistan, together with the Christian Care Foundation, organized a conference on the theme “Celebration of Independence Day and the Role of Minorities in the Founding of Pakistan” on August 11.
The event, held at the Pak Arab Housing Society on Ferozepur Road, was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Human Rights, Government of Pakistan; Seventh Day Adventist and Adventist-Muslim Relations (AMR); Interfaith; Life Awareness for National Development; and the United Interfaith Organizations.
The program began with the national anthem, followed by interfaith prayers from Christian, Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh representatives.
Mr. Asher Nazir, Executive Secretary of Peace Center, explained the purpose and significance of the theme, noting that National Minority Day commemorates the historic vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, as expressed in his 1947 Constituent Assembly address affirming equal rights for all citizens regardless of religion, creed, or race.
The day’s objective was to honor the patriotism and contributions of minorities, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Parsis, and others, in Pakistan’s progress, from defense to education, health, science, sports, arts, and politics. Examples included Dr. Ruth Katherina Martha Pfau’s fight against leprosy and the sacrifices of minority officers in the armed forces. Pfau, a German-Pakistani Catholic nun and physician, belonged to the Society of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary congregation.
The discussions also addressed differing views on the term “minority.” While some consider it discriminatory or contrary to Islamic principles, others view it as a neutral numerical reference. Speakers stressed that the term does not denote inferiority, and that both Islamic teachings and Jinnah’s vision uphold the protection of minority rights. They emphasized that Minority Day should move beyond symbolic celebration to addressing real challenges, ensuring equal rights, and improving quality of life.
The event underscored the importance of religious harmony, tolerance, and the elimination of prejudice so that all citizens, symbolized by both the green and white of Pakistan’s flag, can live with equal dignity.
“It was a very beautiful event. We celebrated Happy Independence Day Pakistan and August 11, Minority Day Pakistan,” said participant Badar Munir. “The speakers elaborated on the role of minorities in making Pakistan and how we can bring Pakistan into line with developed countries.”
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