08/20/2026
The United Muslim Community of America (UMCA) successfully hosted the Commemorating Afghanistan’s Independence Day event on August 19, 2026, in Virginia, USA. The event brought together community members, leaders, professionals, youth, families, and distinguished guests for an evening dedicated to honoring Afghanistan’s history, resilience, and cultural heritage. The gathering provided an opportunity for the Afghan-American community to reflect on the significance of independence and the enduring values of unity and community.
The program featured keynote remarks, panel discussions, and opportunities for networking and community engagement. Distinguished speakers and community leaders, including Zarmina Hamidi, an Afghan-American writer; Abdul Bari Jahani, a prominent Afghan poet, researcher, and former Minister of Information and Culture of Afghanistan; Jarullah Mansori, former Afghan Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development; Mohammad Hashim Wahdatyar, a political analyst and commentator; Niamat Rasool Niamatyar, Vice President of UMCA; and Mustaq Rahim, a political and security analyst and academic, shared their perspectives on Afghanistan’s movement toward independence, lessons learned from the historic events of that time, and the significance of preserving those lessons for future generations. The discussions also explored Afghanistan’s historical journey, the role of the Afghan diaspora, and the importance of unity, civic engagement, and a shared vision for the future.
UMCA extends its sincere gratitude to the sponsors, partners, volunteers, speakers, and attendees whose support contributed to the success of this meaningful celebration. The event served as a reminder of the strength of the Afghan-American community and its commitment to preserving heritage, fostering unity, and building meaningful connections for the future.