Blue Spot

Staten Island's Pakistani community and prospective leaders came out to celebrate the 61st year of Pakistan's independence Sunday. NY1's Bree Driscoll filed the following report.

What started out as a celebration of Pakistani independence quickly turned into a platform for the candidates vying for the 13th congressional seat.

Four candidates running for the job showed up at the 8th annual Pakistani celebration at Snug Harbor Sunday.

"This island is getting more diverse," said Dr. Mohammed Khalid, president of the Pakistani Civic Association. "There are more people moving in and more Pakistani Americans. Eight years ago there was less. Now they are in the thousands."

Democratic Candidate Steve Harrison says he stands for what these set of voters believe.

"We are out here right now talking to everybody about what we feel has to be done in order to make sure this nation is on the right path," said Harrison.

Pakistani community members say they welcome the recognition of the importance of their votes.

Labels: Cultural issues, NY-13, Steve Harrison