APAG Canvases for Zohran Mamdani in Queens
Oct 2025
Canvassing for Zohran Mamdani! We hit the doors in Bellerose and Floral Park and were met with overwhelmingly positive responses. The majority of residents we spoke to are excited to vote for Zohran and support the vision he brings to New York City.
APAG Mobilizes Support for Zohran Mamdani Campaign
Oct 2025
APAG canvassing and strategic discussion for Zohran Mamdani this weekend. Insha’Allah, the next Mayor of NYC. Let’s keep the momentum going, all hands on deck!
APAG Cares Back 2 School Drive with Assemblymember David We
Sep 2025
APAG Cares Back 2 School Drive! The American Pakistani Advocacy Group Cares (APAG Cares), in partnership with Assemblymember David Weprin in Queens.
APAG Cares distributed FREE book bags, school supplies, toys, and candies to help students start the school year right.
APAG Cares Back 2 School Drive with Councilmember Linda Lee
Sep 2025
APAG Cares Back 2 School Drive! The American Pakistani Advocacy Group Cares (APAG Cares), in partnership with Councilmember Linda Lee hosted a Back to School Giveaway.
APAG Cares distributed FREE book bags, school supplies, toys, and candies to help students start the school year right.
APAG Leads Flood Relief Efforts Across Pakistan
Aug 2025
APAG Flood Relief Drives in Shangla, Buner, Swat, and Bojar, Pakistan.
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG), in collaboration with Al Haq Foundation, successfully carried out a flood relief drive in Shangla, Buner, Swat, and Bojar, Pakistan.
Through this initiative, we provided food ration packages, tents, mosquito nets, medical supplies, clothing, water bottles, warm blankets, and solar torches to families affected by the recent floods.
Our mission remains to stand by vulnerable communities in times of crisis, offering not just immediate relief but also hope and solidarity.
APAG Hosts Zohran Mamdani at Independence Day Mela
Aug 2025
Zohran Mamdani at Pakistan Independence Day Mela in Brooklyn with APAG Team!
APAG Hosts Pakistan Independence Celebration at Queens Boro
Aug 2025
Pakistan Independence Day Celebrations at Queens Borough Hall
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG), in collaboration with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, proudly hosted a vibrant celebration marking the 78th Anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence at Queens Borough Hall.
This special evening highlighted the rich culture and heritage of Pakistan through captivating performances, authentic Pakistani cuisine, and the recognition of remarkable community achievements. APAG President Ali Rashid, along with other distinguished community leaders, was honored for his contributions and service.
The event underscored the strong bonds between the Pakistani-American community, the greater Queens community, and New York City. Pakistani youth added to the festivities with cultural songs that honored the legacy of Pakistan’s independence and reflected the vibrant spirit of the community.
APAG Welcomes Elizabeth Horst as Acting U.S. Ambassador
Jul 2025
The United States of America has appointed Elizabeth Kathryn Horst as the new Acting Ambassador to Pakistan. The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) had the great pleasure of working with her and looks forward to continuing a strong relationship
Elizabeth Kathryn Horst is a distinguished career diplomat in the US Senior Foreign Service, currently serving as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, with designated responsibility for Pakistan.
Having begun her diplomatic journey in Pakistan over two decades ago, she returned in 2025 as the acting ambassador—a meaningful homecoming in her impactful career. Her leadership has fostered new heights in US–Pakistan relations, focusing on economic development, climate resilience, public health, and cultural diplomacy.
Elizabeth Horst’s return to Pakistan reflects the depth of institutional ties between the two nations, where seasoned diplomats with prior on-ground experience are trusted to manage crucial postings, even temporarily.
Horst’s appointment ensures continuity in U.S. diplomatic presence and is viewed as a testament to the strength and depth of U.S.-Pakistan relations.
Ali Rashid Honored with Community Service Award
Jul 2025
Congratulations to APAG President Ali Rashid on being honored with a community service award by the New American Voters Association (NAVA), alongside Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and other outstanding leaders.
Also in attendance were District Attorney Melinda Katz, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Senator John Liu, Assemblymember David Weprin, and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.
Historic APAG Rally Supporting Zohran Mamdani in Brooklyn
Jun 2025
Historic Rally for Zohran Mamdani at Makki Masjid, Brooklyn, organized at the American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) along with the coalition partners.
It marked a powerful moment of unity and purpose as our community gathered in full force at Makki Masjid to support Zohran Mamdani, the first serious Muslim contender for Mayor of New York City.
This is more than just an election. It’s a historic opportunity for true representation and transformative change in our city’s leadership.
Early Voting Ends: June 22
Election Day: June 24
Let’s seize this moment. Let’s make history. Get Out and Vote!
All United for Zohran Mamdani!
APAG Cares Eid Al Adha Food Drive
Jun 2025
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group Cares (APAG Cares) successfully held its annual Eid Al Adha Food Drive at Allama Iqbal Avenue in Queens, New York. The APAG Cares team generously distributed essential food items—including atta, rice, chana, daal, besan, tea bags, sawaiyan, fruits, vegetables, bread, eggs, and more—to support families in need as they prepared for Eid celebrations.
The community turned out in large numbers and expressed deep appreciation for APAG Cares continued commitment to serving those in need. In addition to food, toys were distributed to children, adding joy and excitement to the Eid festivities.
Through initiatives like this, APAG Cares remains dedicated to uplifting the community and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
APAG Engages U.S. Congressional Delegation in Islamabad
Apr 2025
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) President, Ali Rashid, attended a reception hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad in honor of the visiting Congressional delegation to Pakistan. The delegation included Congressional Pakistan Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Tom Suozzi (D–NY), Rep. Jack Bergman (R–MI), and Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D–IL).
Their visit highlights a shared commitment to strengthening the U.S.–Pakistan relationship and fostering lasting ties between our two nations.
Special thanks to Acting U.S. Ambassador (Chargé d’Affaires) Natalie Baker for her gracious hospitality and leadership. We look forward to deepening this important partnership and building a brighter future together.
Ali Rashid Honored at Pakistan Consulate
Mar 2025
APAG President Ali Rashid being honored at the Pakistan Consulate in New York on the occasion of Pakistan Day celebrations. His speech on unity, optimism and collaboration to Engage, Empower and Elevate the community.
NY Proclaims Pakistan Heritage Day with Historic Resolutions
Mar 2025
Another milestone for the Pakistani American community as New York State Assembly and Senate Adopt Historic Resolutions Honoring Pakistani-Americans.
In a landmark acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions of the Pakistani-American community, the New York State Assembly adopted two significant resolutions, proclaiming March 23, 2025, as “Pakistan-American Heritage Day” and March 19, 2025, as “Pakistani-American Business Celebration Day” in the State of New York. These resolutions represent a salient milestone, achieved through the dedicated efforts of the American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) and its President Mr. Ali Rashid.
Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, H.E. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai attended the sessions of the New York State Assembly and Senate in Albany. Both dignitaries, along with APAG President Ali Rashid, were duly recognized and honored in the two legislatures.
Also, special thanks for Assemblymember Nader Sayegh and Senator John Liu for sponsoring these resolutions and all the other legislatures for co-sponsoring it.
APAG Cares Annual Ramadan Food Drive
Feb 2025
American Pakistani Advocacy Group Cares (APAG Cares) conducted its annual Ramadan Food Drive on Friday at Allama Iqbal Avenue in Richmond Hill, Queens. APAG team distributed Ramadan essential food items like Atta, Rice, Chana, Dall, Besan, Tea Bag, Dates, Rooh Afza, Sawiyan, fruits, vegetables, bread, eggs and much more.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Senator Joe Addabbo and Councilmember Lynn Schulman attended the drive and applauded APAG Cares efforts. In addition, staff representation from NYC Mayor’s Office, Speakers Office and many other elected official were present as well.
Community came in large numbers and really appreciated APAG Cares efforts to conduct Ramadan drive to help feed the people in need.
APAG President Ali Rashid met the Prime Minister of Pakistan
Feb 2025
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) President Ali Rashid met with the Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Shehbaz Sharif at the PM house in Islamabad. They had a wonderful discussion on various topics relevant to Pakistan-USA relationship and the Pakistani American Community. With the focus on economic collaboration, investment opportunities, and the role of overseas Pakistanis in national development.
The prime minister really appreciated the American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) for all the historic work we have achieved for promoting positive image of Pakistan. APAG will continue to play instrumental role in fostering bilateral relations and building bridges between our two great countries.
As Pakistani-Americans, the USA is our homeland, and Pakistan is our motherland. Our foremost duty is to be responsible, engaged, and productive citizens of the United States, contributing positively to our local communities and society.
At the same time, we remain connected to Pakistan, promoting our motherland in a positive and accurate representation of our heritage. Our commitment is to uplift Pakistan’s global image beyond political ideologies, fostering unity, investment, and cultural pride.
Together, we can make a difference in both nations. Stronger communities, stronger ties!
Song Watan: Gilgit-Baltistan Culture Event
Feb 2025
Song Watan Gilgit-Baltistan culture celebration event with Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan, Consul General of Pakistan to New York Hon. Aamer Ahmed Atozai and APAG President Ali Rashid.
APAG Cares Annual Winter Clothing Drive
Jan 2025
The American Pakistani Advocacy Group Cares (APAG Cares) along with Councilmember Linda Lee conducted its annual winter clothing drive at the Islamic Foundation of New York in Bellerose, Queens. APAG Cares team distributed new jackets, gloves, hoodies, hats, scarfs and socks. Such an overwhelming response from the community. The community and the mosque was very appreciative of APAG efforts for distributing brand new winter clothes.
It’s all about giving back and helping the community.
President Ali Rashid graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy
Jan 2025
Honored to have graduated from the FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation Citizens Academy.
An invaluable experience as an entrepreneur and a community leader. This transformative experience offered a firsthand look into the FBI's dedication to protecting our communities and nation. This incredible involvement deepened my understanding of law enforcement, national security, and the critical work the FBI does every day.
As a businessman, I found it inspiring to see how collaboration, communication, and trust are essential in building safer businesses and communities. This experience has deepened my commitment to supporting law enforcement and fostering unity between agencies and the people they serve.
Grateful for the opportunity to connect, learn, engage, and collaborate toward a safer future. Proud to be part of this initiative to strengthen our communities.
Thank you to the FBI for investing in this partnership and empowering leaders across all sectors. Together, we can make a difference!