The Pakistani community celebrated their Country’s 68th independence day Sunday at the Snug Harbor Cultural Centre.
All ages came together, with lots of festivities, food and fun for the kids.
"I'm celebrating my country's independence day with a lot of nice people, weather is nice,” said Samina Sheik a Staten Island Resident.
Younger second and third generation Pakistani Americans said they came to better understand their roots.
"It's important for the kids to know where they came from. They need to know all of this. They should know how we celebrate and what's our history," said one Pakistani American.
"America is a nation of immigrants.We all founded this country based on immigration, to keep that going is a great thing,” said Munib Sheik.
Beyond the festivities, organizers say their goal is to make sure that the Pakistani American community is recognized and respected.
"Pakistan is a great country. We had our setback with 9/11 and the terrorisim activity, but thank God we proved we are a caring hardworking community,” said Dr. Mohammad Khalid, President of the Pakistani Civic Association.
Organizers say the party in the park was a success with several hundred people turning out, from mixed faiths and cultures.