JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY – March 13, 2026 – In a powerful display of cross-cultural solidarity and community engagement, New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky served as the chief guest at a special Ramadan Iftar dinner hosted by the Bangladeshi community in Jackson Heights. The event, which took place on the evening of March 13, brought together community leaders, activists, and residents to break bread and foster deeper connections between state leadership and one of Queens' most vibrant and dynamic diasporas.  The Iftar, which marks the daily breaking of the fast during the holy month of Ramadan, was co-organized by three prominent organizations: the Global Bangladeshi Alliance (GBA), the Community United Democratic Club, and the Bangladeshi American Tech Coalition. The gathering aimed not only to observe a sacred religious tradition but also to create a platform for dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration between elected officials and the Bangladeshi-American community. Senator Stavyiski, who has long been a champion for diverse communities within her district, addressed the attendees with warm remarks, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and recognizing the significant contributions of the Bangladeshi diaspora to the cultural and economic fabric of New York. "Ramadan is a time for reflection, compassion, and community," Senator Stavisky stated. "I am honored to share this special evening with our Bangladeshi neighbors and to celebrate the rich diversity that makes Jackson Heights and our entire state so strong."

 Adding to the evening's distinction, the event also featured New York State Supreme Court Justice Soma Syed as an honorary guest. Justice Syed, a respected figure in the legal community, represents a milestone for South Asian representation in the judiciary, and her presence underscored the growing influence and integration of the Bangladeshi community in all facets of New York life.  The event was marked by a spirit of camaraderie and fellowship. Key leaders from the organizing bodies were in attendance to welcome the guests and facilitate the evening's proceedings. Notable attendees included Mizan Choudhury, President of the Global Bangladeshi Alliance; MD Shohel Hossain, Administrative Director of GBA; and Anisul Kabir Jasir, Director of the Outreach Committee of GBA. They were joined by a host of other community figures and activists, including Muhammad Kamrul Islam Sony, Syed Murshed, Nayeem Ahmed, and many others, whose collective efforts ensured the event's success.  The Iftar dinner provided an invaluable opportunity for community members to engage directly with their representatives in an informal and welcoming setting. Discussions ranged from local community concerns to the achievements of Bangladeshi-Americans in business, technology, and civic life. The Bangladeshi American Tech Coalition highlighted the growing role of the community in New York's innovation economy.  As the sun set and the call to prayer echoed, attendees gathered to share a traditional meal, embodying the true spirit of Ramadan and the unifying power of community. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from the organizers towards Senator Stavisky and Justice Syed, with a collective hope for continued partnership and understanding in the years to come.