(WARREN, MI) — The Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) commends the American Human Rights Council (AHRC) for hosting its annual Spirit of Humanity Awards and Dinner Gala yesterday at the Fairlane Banquet Center in Dearborn. The event celebrated remarkable individuals and organizations whose steadfast commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity continues to inspire and uplift communities across the nation and around the world.
The gala centered on a timely message, the urgent need to defend human rights amid growing global challenges. It drew together community leaders, public officials, and advocates in a shared commitment to justice and hope.
Also honored were several outstanding community leaders: Dr. Nidhal Garmo, Vice Chair of World Medical Relief and founder of One World Medical Mission, who received the Wings of Humanity Award; Dr. Nidal Jboor, cofounder of Doctors Against Genocide, recipient of the Oath in Action Award; and Dr. Ahmed Ghanim, cofounder of the Metro Detroit Political Action Network, who received the Voices for Change Community Impact Award.
In his concluding remarks at the event, Imam Mustapha Elturk, President of IONA and a founding member of AHRC, emphasized the moral and spiritual imperative to remain steadfast in the struggle for justice.
“My friends, the struggle for human rights — from Gaza to Sudan, from Yemen to Ukraine, and here in our own communities — is far from over,” said Imam Elturk. “When hearts come together, when faith and conscience unite, when we link our efforts across professions, faiths, and borders — we form a human chain strong enough to push back against the darkness. Human rights are alive. Hope endures. And together, we continue the fight. The struggle must go on!”
IONA extends its appreciation to AHRC for its tireless advocacy and leadership in promoting human dignity and universal human rights. The Spirit of Humanity Gala continues to serve as a vital platform for awareness, unity, and civic engagement — values deeply rooted in the Islamic tradition and shared across humanity.
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