Jalalabad Association Honors Ibrahim Chowdhury Khokon in Los Angeles

On the evening of Tuesday, 7 October, the Jalalabad Association of California held a heartfelt reception to honor Ibrahim Chowdhury Khokon, Editor of Prothom Alo North America, at the vibrant Bollywood Restaurant in Los Angeles. The event brought together members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, celebrating cultural bonds and community spirit under the California sky.

The program was presided over by Association President Mohammad Munim, with General Secretary Laik Ahmed serving as host. Distinguished guests included Helal Uddin Rana, founding president of the Michigan Press Club, Prothom Alo’s California correspondent Rozina Islam, and Loskar Al Mamun, U.S. correspondent for Somoy TV and Secretary of the Los Angeles Press Club. Numerous local journalists, social organizers, business leaders, and cultural figures also attended.

In his keynote speech, Ibrahim Chowdhury Khokon humbly remarked, “Rather than receiving honors, I prefer standing by those close to me. I am an ordinary person and wish to remain among ordinary people.” He fondly recalled his childhood and early youth in Bagha village, Golapganj, and the days of social activism in Sylhet, noting that the bonds forged then remain alive even in diaspora life.

Speaking about Prothom Alo North America, Khokon said, “This publication is not just a news outlet; it is the voice of the Bangladeshi community here. We aim to reflect the stories, successes, struggles, culture, and spirit of Bangladeshis living on this continent. Journalism is our responsibility, and readers’ support is our strength.”

He also emphasized the importance of cultural continuity and intergenerational connections in diaspora communities, praising the Jalalabad Association for its cemetery project, student honors, and social welfare initiatives. “True wealth lies not in money, but in relationships and courtesy,” he added, earning heartfelt applause.

Speakers, including Helal Uddin Rana, Rozina Islam, and Loskar Al Mamun, lauded Khokon’s leadership, integrity, and dedication to journalism. Longtime colleagues and friends recalled their shared experiences in activism and community service, highlighting Khokon’s inspiring role for generations of Bangladeshis abroad.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial presentation of an honor plaque to Khokon, followed by a dinner filled with conversation, selfies, and Sylheti hospitality—a night celebrating enduring bonds, cultural pride, and the spirit of community.