Letter: Khankan inspired Freeport High
The body of longtime Muslim activist Ghazi Khankan is taken back to the hearse after the funeral at the Islamic Center of Long Island in Westbury. (April 27, 2012) Credit: Newsday / J. Conrad Williams, Jr.
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Ghazi Khankan [" 'He was an icon'; 1,000-plus pay respects to LI Muslim leader," News, April 28]. He was a true believer in improving American-Islamic relations.
For many years, Freeport High School held an annual human rights celebration, and Khankan often came to speak to students. He had a proactive approach, encouraging diverse groups to reach out to each other. His remarks and high ideals were evident when explaining Islam to students.
We remember him with great respect and admiration.
Enid Hawthorne
Port Washington
Mary Jean Tucker
Freeport
Muslim activist Ghazi Y. Khankan, a trailblazer who helped to establish many of the region's Muslim institutions, died April 26, 2012, a few days after suffering a stroke. The Long Beach resident was 77. (July 15, 2002)
Newsday's obituary for Al-Haaj Ghazi Y. Khankan
Credit: Newsday / Jim Peppler
