Noman Sabit: An event branded as the ‘Bangladesh Day Parade’ in New York has sparked considerable controversy among the Bangladeshi diaspora, with many labeling it as a deceptive and disorganized affair. The parade, held for the fourth time, was organized by the Bangladesh Society with support from Humanity Empowerment Rights and took place on Sunday, April 13, in Jackson Heights.
Despite the participation of thousands of Bangladeshi expatriates and several public officials, the event has come under intense scrutiny for inviting New York City Mayor Eric Adams—a staunch supporter of Israel—as the chief guest, and a controversial local figure accused of fraud and lawsuits as the Grand Marshal. These choices have drawn widespread criticism from within the community.
Though the event was organized by the Bangladesh Society, there was no rendition of the national anthem or tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War. A few attendees waved Bangladeshi flags and performed dances to patriotic songs, but observers said the portrayal of Bengali culture lacked dignity and coherence.
Mayor Eric Adams led the parade carrying the Bangladeshi flag, accompanied by members of the NYPD. Other prominent guests included State Senator John C. Liu, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar (also known for her pro-Israel stance), Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and former MP M.M. Shahin. Despite the large turnout, the absence of core community stakeholders raised questions.
There are claims that the position of Grand Marshal was sold this year, as was the case last year. The individual selected has previously insulted the Bangladesh Society by referring to it derogatorily but was still awarded the honor in exchange for a substantial payment, say insiders. His self-proclaimed status as Grand Marshal last year was publicly rejected by others on stage.
The Grand Marshal role sparked internal division within the Bangladesh Society. Several current officials, including members of the Trustee Board, were not invited to the event, leading to public opposition from figures like Senior Vice President Mahiuddin Dewan. Critics have also pointed out that the younger generation was once again excluded from the parade’s activities.
Approximately 1,000 low-quality red-and-green saris and Panjabis were distributed the night before the parade. The quality was reportedly so poor that attendees were embarrassed to wear them. Only a handful of women mistakenly wore them and ended up covering themselves with jackets.
Notably, a little-known and off-key singer received a New York City citation, allegedly in exchange for money—another example of questionable favoritism.
Despite the controversy, Mayor Adams and other speakers praised the Bangladeshi community. The ceremony began not with the national anthem, but with the distribution of badges to Grand Marshals, advisors, and guests. Present at the time were Parade Committee Chairman Ataur Rahman Selim, General Secretary Mohammad Ali, and Fahad Soliman, Secretary of the Parade Committee and President of Humanity Empowerment Rights.
What Happened at the 2024 Bangladesh Day Parade: In public statements, organizers misleadingly claimed this was the first-ever Bangladesh Day Parade in New York. In reality, the first such parade was held in the early 1980s, likely in 1984, organized by Anisuzzaman Khokon’s Ruposhi Bangla. Notable figures like Nasir Khan Pol, Tahur Ahmed, and Dr. Billah served as Grand Marshals. Another major parade took place in 1999 under Dr. Hamiduzzaman and Fakhrul Alam.
The 2024 parade’s organizing committee allegedly struggled with severe financial issues. Reports claim that the Grand Marshal role, priced at $50,000, was offered through informal bidding but received no takers. Eventually, the May 26 parade proceeded without a Grand Marshal.
According to Joint Convener Syed Akikur Rahman Farooq, organizers failed to provide a transparent financial report at a meeting on May 22. President Shah Shahidul Haque Saeed and Secretary Abdus Sobhan of the World Human Rights Development Organization, which sponsored the parade, are accused of treating the event as a personal venture, allegedly pocketing $200 per day for honoraria and expenses.
When Farooq raised concerns, tensions escalated. Shah Newaz’s wife allegedly physically confronted him during a public meeting, and no action was taken, leaving Farooq humiliated and without justice. Critics allege that some opportunists in the community are now rallying around the controversial couple instead.
Despite having over 300 community organizations in New York and a Bangladeshi population of more than 300,000, major cultural and social organizations were absent from the event. Bangladesh Society itself boycotted the parade, citing disparaging remarks by Shah Newaz. The broader political and cultural leadership also stayed away, criticizing the organizers for irresponsibility and negligence.
While around 65 organizations participated this year—three times more than last year—the parade’s credibility and unity were undercut by mismanagement, exclusion, and questions of integrity.
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