Khizr Kahn Addresses Portland About Importance of Voting

PORTLAND, OR - Khizr Kahn delivered a speech at the Muslim Educational Trust Center in Portland to an auditorium of over 400 people. The speech focused on the death of his son, the beauty in forgiveness and the importance of participating in the upcoming election. Kzhir Kahn received some attention after their recent speech at the 2016 National Democratic Convention, during which he criticized Republican candidate Donald Trump.

Kahn was welcomed warmly by Senator Ron Wyden.

"The pain from the death of a young at brave man at 27 is almost unfathomable, but I cannot imagine either the difficult past several months that you and your wife have suffered from cheap insults, false statements, and the blatant disrespect of people diluted by their blatant sense of entitlement. And we as Oregonians want you to know we are grateful to have you for the first time in our state," said Senator Wyden.

Wyden has served as the senior Senator for the state of Oregon since 1996 and previously held a post within the House of Representatives, from 1981 - 1996. He's taken strong stances on tax reform and eliminating Medicare. Wyden is respected by Republicans for his willingness to cooperate and compromise throughout his career.

Kahn took the stage and was met with thunderous applause.

Khzir Kahn, a Pakastani-American and father of Humayun Kahn, a Captain in the United States Army who was killed during combat in Iraq in 2004, shared with the audience a few moving experiences.

"This division runs much much deeper than our expectations that these divisions will be over after the election. No lets get ready to forgive, extend the hand of friendship and extend the hand of reconciliation. I am so grateful that I stand here and I share these experiences with you," said Kahn.

Kahn did not shy away from delivering a strong call-to-action directed at the audience, regardless of their political affiliation.

"Please. It's your obligation. On the day of the election, do not hesitate to stand in line for 2 hours or 12 hours, whatever it takes, to make sure you cast your vote. You have to do your part. Still, your participation is so imperative in this election. Invite your family to go with you. God willing, we will continue to move forward with forgiveness in our hearts. No matter how hurtful they have been to you, forgiveness is the solution," said Kahn.

The importance of participating in the upcoming election is not lost on the Kahn's despite the suffering they have endured. The takeaway of Khzir's speech seemed clear: regardless of who you are or what you believe, if you are an American, you have an obligation to vote.

Photos courtesy of the office of Senator Ron Wyden, State of Oregon