VIRGINIAL: A new chapter was written in US history as Ghazala Hashmi became the first Muslim woman to take oath as Lieutenant Governor, swearing in on the Holy Quran.
In another historic development, the state witnessed its first-ever female Governor as Abigail Spanberger assumed office, marking a significant milestone in Virginia’s political history.
It was also the first time that the office of Attorney General was held by an African American leader, Jay Jones. Former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as Governor, while Ghazala Hashmi took oath as Lieutenant Governor on the Holy Quran.
Ghazala Hashmi is also the first woman to serve as Lieutenant Governor of the state. On the occasion, an interfaith prayer breakfast was organized, during which Imam Sharif led the prayers.
Senator Saddam Azlan Saleem and Senator Kanaan were also present at the ceremony. Meanwhile, Adams Scouting America and the Girl Scouts participated in the parade, led by Rizwan Jaka, Ahsanullah, Bethany Rashid, and others.
Speaking on the occasion, Rizwan Jaka expressed hope that unity and diversity would continue to flourish across the state.
Chairman of the Governor’s Asian American Advisory Board, Mansoor Qureshi, voiced optimism that not only the Governor and Lieutenant Governor but the entire cabinet would serve all communities in Virginia without discrimination, with special focus on the South Asian community.
