Mumtaz Hussain

NEW YORK: The Pakistani American Political Action Committee (PAKPAC) has expressed concern over what it describes as Islamophobic and anti-Pakistani American rhetoric from some members of the United States Congress and individuals in leadership positions.

In its statement, PAKPAC said it is deeply concerned by remarks suggesting that legal immigration is not “good,” that shopping centers in Dallas “feel like Pakistan,” and references to the “Islamization of America.”

PAKPAC stated that such comments mischaracterize both the immigrant experience and the fundamental values upon which the United States was founded.

The organization emphasized that Muslim and Pakistani Americans are proud Americans who contribute significantly to the nation’s economic strength, civic life, and national security.

According to the statement, many members of the Pakistani American community serve as physicians or healthcare professionals, including those working in rural and medically underserved areas across the United States.

PAKPAC also reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and civic engagement, saying it welcomes any leader who wishes to better understand the community to engage with the organization.

The group urged representatives in Congress to co-sponsor Pakistan Freedom and Accountability Act and encouraged Pakistani Americans to support its advocacy efforts by joining PAKPAC.

The statement referenced several U.S. leaders and political groups, including Mike Johnson, Hakeem Jeffries, John Thune, Chuck Schumer, and Kamala Harris.

PAKPAC also called on Pakistani Americans to support advocacy efforts and strengthen engagement on issues affecting the community and U.S.–Pakistan relations.