By: Dr. Mohammad Akbar
Shia Muslim community of Lower Mainland organizes a procession in downtown Vancouver every year to commemorate the great sacrifice of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad some 1400 years ago in Karbala, Iraq.
Millions of people gather every year at the shrine of Imam Hussain during these days of Muharram to pay tribute and homage to Imam Hussain. And millions, who are not able to go to Karbala, commemorate this great martyrdom in their respective cities all over the world.
These gatherings all over the world are a testament to the greatness of Imam Hussain to protect humanity from oppression, injustice, tyranny, and cruelty unleashed by Yazid – the ruler at that time.
In order to honour Hussain’s sacrifice, the Aza-e-Hussain Association of BC also partnered with Canadian Blood Services and a number of Shia Muslim community members have donated blood in the name of Imam Hussain.
The procession in downtown Vancouver this year was attended by about 1200 men, women, and children from various nationalities.
The procession started at Vancouver public library and ended at Vancouver Arts Gallery.
