Frank Islam, a philanthropist and an Indian- American, has been honoured with the Interfaith Leadership Award. He was bestowed this award for his contributions towards higher education and support of interfaith dialogue and arts. He said that all Americans, irrespective of their faith and background should unite and double their efforts to eradicate hatred and bigotry as he addressed a gathering after receiving the award, this weekend, at the Interfaith Leadership Award Concert.
He also expressed that all Americans should join together to fight for a stronger and fairer nation by which they can help to create a better future. Interfaith dialogue, his endeavour, was made difficult this year due to the presidential election in which the campaign was harsh, and divisive language used by the candidates separated people by religion, race and national origin. He added that Americans have given their verdict through votes and mentioned that though the outcome was not what they wanted, still they would accept the result. Islam said that they all loved their country and would serve and defend it and would never stop struggling and continue fighting for the soul of their country.
Ben Cardin, the Senator who was present during the award ceremony, said that Frank Islam was a person who stood to promote different religious freedom, cooperation and interfaith dialogue.