[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 10611]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




    IN MEMORY OF ZIA RAHMAN, BELOVED LEADER AND INTERFAITH DIALOGUE 
                                ADVOCATE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT E. ANDREWS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 14, 2010

  Mr. ANDREWS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory 
of Zia Rahman of Voorhees, who passed away on June 9th, 2009 at the age 
of 64. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Zahida, two sons, and 
five brothers. Mr. Rahman made a lasting mark on the Voorhees community 
for his religious passion and understanding.
  Mr. Rahman was the Managing Director of the Muslim American Community 
Association (MACA), but many will remember him for building a mosque in 
Voorhees. Six years ago, while trying to find a site for the mosque, 
Mr. Rahman and the MACA faced many obstacles. To overcome these 
challenges, Mr. Rahman brought together leaders of different 
backgrounds to create the Coalition for Multi-Faith Democracy. The 
members worked together to encourage tolerance and tear down 
stereotypes within the South Jersey community. Mr. Rahman inspired 
others with his passion to unite and build understanding between 
members of different faiths.
  Mr. Rahman was an advocate for peace and understanding. He spoke in 
front of community groups, churches, and synagogues to encourage a 
better understanding of Islam. One of his proudest achievements was 
creating an agreement of cooperation and understanding between his 
mosque and the Diocese of Camden. Mr. Rahman educated and connected 
many throughout his lifetime. He united many people of different faiths 
while breaking down stereotypes about Islam.
  Madam Speaker, Zia Rahman's commitment to Voorhees and its citizens 
should not go unrecognized. I express my deepest condolences to his 
family for their loss and pay tribute to the memory of this outstanding 
individual.

                          ____________________