04/09/2025
Afghan Community in Windsor Celebrates Eid and Nowruz with Festive Gathering
Hundreds of Afghans in Windsor, Ontario, came together on Eid Ul-Fitr's first day to celebrate Eid and Nowruz, embracing their rich culture, identity, and shared joy.
Local Afghan residents organized the event, which various community partners, including Hindara Educational and Social Development Incorporation, Rotary Club of LaSalle Centennial, Nile Photography, YMCA, UHC, South Asian Centre, and Winners supported. The gathering opened with a recitation from the Quran, followed by the national anthems of Afghanistan and Canada.
Zakia Zarabi, organizing committee chair, warmly welcomed attendees and highlighted support services available for Afghan newcomers in Windsor. She emphasized key community programs designed to aid integration and settlement in Canada.
Ms. Zarabi also shared her heartfelt wish for Afghan girls in Afghanistan to regain their right to education, reflecting on the freedoms enjoyed by girls attending the Nowruz celebration in Windsor.
Councillor Angelo Marignani, representing Windsor City Council, greeted attendees warmly and conveyed best wishes for Eid and Nowruz. He reaffirmed Canada's dedication to multiculturalism, stating, "Canadians are kind. We are not afraid and cherish our culture's diversity."
Ghousuddin Frotan, president of Hindara, spoke about the organization's longstanding commitment to community service in Afghanistan and its recent expansion into Canada. He announced plans to launch a multilingual publication in Windsor, available in Pashto, Dari, and English, to support and inform the local Afghan community. Frotan reaffirmed Hindara's dedication to fostering stronger community connections and assisting Afghan immigrants in navigating Canadian society.
In a gesture of appreciation, the community and Hindara presented Councillor Marignani with a traditional Afghan carpet.
The festivities continued with an enthusiastic Attan dance led by Afghan Sikh community members and joined by joyful attendees. Volunteers instrumental in organizing the event were recognized and thanked with special gifts.
The celebration concluded with a communal meal, marking the second consecutive year Windsor’s Afghan community celebrated Nowruz joyfully and inclusively.
