Sam Khan
NJ Muslim Leader Sam Khan Remembered: 'His Legacy Will Continue to Inspire Us All'
By Suzanne Russell, MyCentralJersey.com
A local Muslim leader who was involved in Edison politics is being remembered for his efforts to bring people together.
Sam Khan, founder and chair of the South Asian Community Outreach which has a mission to unite all as one community, no matter their background or socio-economic status, has died.
The Facebook pages for the Muslim Federation of New Jersey and the Al-Rayaan Muslim Funeral Services posted notices that the funeral prayer for Khan will be held Thursday, June 1 after Duhar Prayer at Masjid Al-Wali Mosque, 10 Olsen Ave., Edison. The viewing will take place before the Duhar Prayer from 10 am to 1 pm.
"Sam Khan had a personality larger than life. He was a well-respected leader who worked tirelessly to unite communities. I will remember him for his generosity and persistence. His legacy will continue to inspire us all," said Edison Mayor Sam Joshi.
In an email promoting an interfaith holiday celebration hosted by the South Asian Community Outreach last year, Khan said with the uptick in the severity of bigotry, ignorance and other forms of hate in recent years it was pertinent to have times to sit down and spread love, exemplify the good of humanity through charity or volunteering and demonstrate how we should acknowledge the similarities that bind us and the difference that give us perspective, knowledge and tools to grow as a society.
Khan also promoted the local Pakistani Day Parade celebrating Pakistan’s Independence Day.
In a Facebook post the American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee extended condolences on the passing of Khan, a revered community leader and organizer.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of such an exceptional individual who dedicated his life to advocating for the betterment of our community," the post said.
"Mr Sam Khan (late) played an instrumental role in bringing about positive change and empowering the voices of those who needed it the most. His passion, dedication, and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our community, and his absence will be deeply felt by all," the post stated. "We remember him as a visionary leader who tirelessly worked to bridge divides, inspire, and uplift the marginalized. His unwavering commitment to social justice and equality has had a profound impact on countless lives."
Khan unsuccessfully ran for mayor as a Republican in Edison in 2013 and 2017. His LinkedIn page lists him as president of Mak Group of Companies. He was also a member of the Middlesex County Planning Board, according to county officials.
Khan's Facebook page lists him as an entrepreneur, politician and community activist. In his last post on April 21, he wished a happy Eid Mubarak to 1.6 billion Muslims celebrating worldwide.
"As a community, let us work together to promote the values of compassion, understanding, and respect towards all people, regardless of our differences, faith, race and culture. May this day be a reminder of our shared humanity and our collective commitment to building a world that is more inclusive, harmonious, and peaceful. Eid Mubarak to Everyone!" his post read.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ Muslim leader Sam Khan of Edison remembered
