Brooklyn, New York: A dignified Seerat-un-Nabi (PBUH) Conference was organized in Brooklyn, New York, under the auspices of the NYPD Muslim Officers Society. Muslim police officers from Pakistani-American, Egyptian-American, and other ethnic communities participated in large numbers. The attendees paid glowing tributes to the services and sacrifices of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for the Muslim Ummah and humanity, describing his blessed personality as the perfect role model for all mankind.
The event was hosted by NYPD Muslim police officer Dypty Inspector Waheed Akhtar, who is also in charge of a local precinct and serves as the president of the Muslim Officers Society. Imam Mustafa from Eyup Sultan Turkish Cultural Center
Imam Tahir Kukiqi from Albanian Islamic Center and NYPD Muslim Chaplain
Shiekh Abdhulrahman Badawy from Muslim American Society Staten Island were the speakers and guest of honor .
The program began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a comprehensive and heartfelt speech in praise of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) by the police chaplain (himself a serving police officer).
The chaplain emphasized that, first and foremost, we must instill discipline and organization within ourselves, speak about the Prophet (PBUH), act upon his teachings, and educate our children about his Seerat (life and character). He pointed out that many people have not fully studied or understood the life of the Prophet (PBUH). He stressed that the blessed life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is the perfect example of morals for all humanity. Study it deeply, learn more about his personality—this will cultivate love in your heart—and then act upon his commands.
Later, another imam beautifully described the Seerat of the Prophet (PBUH) and posed an engaging question to the participants: “What does a child want to hear about you?” Some said kindness, others forgiveness, others greatness, and various answers were shared. The imam urged reflection: Consider how beloved the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is to such a vast portion of humanity and the Muslims—how much kindness resided in him, the uniqueness of his personality, and how the entire world admires him today. Every time his blessed name is mentioned, it further highlights his noble character.
The imam then led an intensely emotional and passionate dua for peace and brotherhood within the Muslim Ummah. He stated that while living in American society, we must bring discipline within ourselves.
Prominent figures from the Pakistani-American community attended, including Tauqeer ul Haq from APPAC, Inspector Adeel Rana , Zeeshan, and notably detective Rohail Khalid a dedicated young man serving in the New York Police Department, contributing to both the community and the faith.
An elaborate and lavish arrangement of food was made, featuring Pakistani cuisine. The most significant aspect of the event was that all participants—including women—offered congregational prayer in the mosque at the Turkish Community Center and made heartfelt supplications.
At the conclusion, everyone mingled warmly and pledged to continue organizing such Seerat Conferences and similar events in the future.
One speaker noted that while we love our Quran, Muslim scholars often focus heavily on the Prophet (PBUH) while somewhat neglecting the Quran—the very revelation sent through him. He prayed for Allah’s love and the love of His Prophet (PBUH) to fill our hearts and for beneficial knowledge to enlighten our minds. He emphasized child-rearing, the importance of truthfulness, and following the Sunnah, citing the example where the Prophet (PBUH) prohibited lying even to a child (such as falsely promising something to lure them), as it introduces them to dishonesty from a young age.
Another speaker highlighted that this was the third annual conference, held during the holiday season when other communities celebrate their significant days, to reconnect with our faith roots. Despite a snowstorm, the attendance demonstrated true dedication. The program included speeches, networking opportunities, and food. One scheduled speaker could not attend due to being stranded in a snowstorm in Atlanta, Georgia, but the event concluded successfully.
This conference was a beautiful initiative by Muslim police officers to renew faith and strengthen community bonds, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the NYPD Muslim Officers Society.
