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Created: 09 November 2023

In a compelling open letter addressed to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, Delwar Jahid, the President of the Bangladesh North American Journalists Network, has urgently appealed for the voting rights of expatriate Bangladeshis ahead of the January 2024 elections. The letter, which represents the sentiments of one and a half million expatriates and their global well-wishers, emphasizes the need for a free, fair, peaceful, and participatory election in the country.

The expatriate community, deeply concerned about the current state of affairs marked by violence, tension, and uncertainty in Bangladesh, sees the upcoming national elections as a pivotal moment for millions of Bangladeshis to exercise their political choices in governing the country. The letter acknowledges Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's instrumental role in addressing the voting rights of expatriates during the formulation of 'Smart Bangladesh' and highlights the decision made in the 2010 cabinet meeting to grant expatriate Bangladeshis the right to vote in all elections in the country.

The expatriate community respectfully conveys their expectations to the Prime Minister, emphasizing that granting expatriates the opportunity to engage in democracy and vote will not only resolve a longstanding suffrage issue but also showcase Bangladesh's capabilities and global stature. The letter praises Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's commitment to the Smart Bangladesh initiative, aligning with the evolving needs of the country as it strives to become a developed, prosperous, and smart nation.

However, the letter points out the unfortunate denial of equal access to the ballot for 1.3 million remittance fighters in the diaspora during this critical transitional phase in Bangladesh. Despite a national consensus and a groundbreaking resolution to enfranchise them, these expatriates are currently excluded from participating in the electoral process. The letter urges Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to take prompt and necessary action on the matter of voting rights for the 13 million remittance fighters, emphasizing that a free, fair, impartial, and participatory election involving all citizens is of utmost importance.

The letter concludes by expressing gratitude for the Prime Minister's attention to this crucial matter and remains hopeful for a positive and inclusive electoral process in Bangladesh. Delwar Jahid, a Canadian expatriate, freedom fighter, writer, researcher, and journalist, signs off as the President of the Bangladesh North American Journalists Network, representing the collective voice of expatriate Bangladeshis. As the January 2024 elections draw nearer, the expatriate community eagerly anticipates a response and action from the government to ensure their voting rights are upheld.

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Created: 27 October 2023

"Step to Humanity Association Wins Gold Certificate as Best Local Charity by Surrey Now-Leader Readers"

In a heartwarming recognition of its humanitarian efforts, Step to Humanity Association (STHA) has been awarded the prestigious gold certificate for the "Best Association in the Local Charity Category" by the readers of the Surrey Now-Leader. The Surrey Now-Leader, a renowned Canadian media outlet serving the communities of Surrey, North Delta, and White Rock in British Columbia, presented this esteemed accolade to the international charity organization.

STHA, a registered charitable organization in Canada under the Societies Act of BC (registration #S0066022) and CRA Registration #750593923RR0001, was founded in 2016 with a dedicated mission to alleviate poverty, primarily focusing on nations in Asia and Africa. Operating as a non-profit entity, STHA transcends political boundaries and international borders to serve the underprivileged, exemplifying a commitment to humanity that knows no bounds.

Throughout its years of operation, STHA has implemented a wide array of programs and services aimed at uplifting individuals, families, and communities, with special attention to countries such as Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. These multifaceted initiatives encompass youth employment programs, educational support, health and sanitation projects, livelihood enhancement, and emergency relief efforts to address climate-related vulnerabilities. The ultimate goal of STHA is to foster self-sufficiency, create lasting positive change, and reduce poverty in these underserved communities.

The gold certificate from Surrey Now-Leader readers serves as a testament to the exceptional work carried out by Step to Humanity Association and reflects the deep impact it has made on the lives of those it has touched. STHA remains committed to its mission and looks forward to continuing its meaningful contributions to global humanitarian efforts.

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Created: 20 September 2023

Calgary, Canada - August 24, 2023: This morning, a pivotal joint meeting took place between Akram Joma, the largest Islamic center in Western Canada, and The Step to Humanity Association from British Columbia. Mohannad Hajjo, Program Coordinator of Akram Joma, along with Moazzam Hossain, General Secretary of The Step to Humanity Association and Delwar Jahid a distinguished figure with a rich background in freedom fighting, and academia, convened to underscore the significance of collaborative initiatives that will drive positive change.In this coming together of visionaries, both organizations highlighted their commitment to undertaking partnership projects that will have a transformative impact. Delwar Jahid, an influential representative of The Step to Humanity Association, remarked on the organization's global efforts to uplift underprivileged communities in developing countries, most notably in Bangladesh. Their achievements encompass an array of endeavors including skill development training, educational scholarships, medical aid, clean water provisions, and emergency relief support. Jahid extended an invitation to both entities, inviting them to embark on a collective journey of empowerment and sustainable development. He stressed that by working collaboratively, the potential exists to create a lasting and affirmative change in the lives of the less fortunate. Jahid also highlighted an ongoing research initiative by the Coastal 19 Group in Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Bangladesh North American Journalist Network and with the support of Step to Humanity Association. This endeavor is aligned with their commitment to undertaking projects that foster positive change on a substantial scale.Moazzem Hossain, an accomplished agriculturist, echoed the sentiment of impactful change by acknowledging Step to Humanity Association's track record. Over the years, the association has successfully executed a variety of projects that have significantly improved the well-being of marginalized communities across developing countries like Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, and Pakistan. These initiatives encompass skill development, education, medical aid, clean water provision, and emergency relief efforts. Highlighting the "Empowering Women through Goat Rearing and Breeding in Bangladesh" initiative, Hossain noted that the association has provided sustainable livelihood opportunities to 300 families through goat distribution and training. The "Cataract Surgery and Awareness on Blindness in Bangladesh" project, having performed 100 cataract surgeries, stands as a testament to their dedication to transformative healthcare.

Mohannad Hajjo, Program Coordinator of Akram Joma, shed light on the center's role as an integral part of the charitable Muslim Community Foundation. Serving a vibrant community of over 25,000 Muslims in the Calgary Northeast region, Akram Joma prioritizes a range of events and initiatives spanning religious, educational, social, and faith-based domains. The center not only offers advanced education but also fosters unity, compassion, and peace among Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Hajjo extended a heartfelt call to Step to Humanity, inviting them to propose partnership projects that would align their shared values and amplify their efforts toward empowerment and sustainable development. This collective endeavor is poised to chart a course of meaningful change and impact, setting a model for collaboration that uplifts and transforms lives.