08/17/2026
Conference Report: “Afghanistan: Five Years After the Fall”
On August 15, 2026, the Afghanistan Refugee Rescue Organization – ARRO-USA hosted the conference “Afghanistan: Five Years After the Fall” under the theme “Remembrance, Truth, Solidarity, and Action” at the North County Governmental Center in Reston, Virginia.
The event brought together community leaders, public officials, human rights advocates, representatives of refugee- and immigrant-serving organizations, professionals, members of the Afghan community, and friends of Afghanistan. The main purpose of the conference was to reflect on the events following August 15, 2021, examine the situation of Afghans five years after the fall, hear directly from community members, and create space for cooperation, solidarity, and collective action.
During the opening remarks, Bilal Ahmad Niazi, Founder and President of ARRO-USA, emphasized the importance of moving beyond seeing Afghans only as refugees or victims and instead recognizing the talent, experience, resilience, and potential of Afghans to contribute meaningfully to American society.
The program also included remarks by Supervisor Walter Alcorn of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. In addition, an official message from Congressman James R. Walkinshaw was presented by Kris Adkison, District Aide to Congressman Walkinshaw.
Among the featured speakers, Alaha Ahrar spoke about the experiences and situation of Afghan women, while Mohammad Iqbal Najmi addressed the implications of Afghanistan’s instability for global security and the potential of Afghans in the United States.
One of the major parts of the program was the panel discussion, “Supporting Afghans After the Fall,” moderated by Nilab Ibrahimy. The panel included:
Shawn VanDiver –
Dr. Susan A***n Antolin – Women for Afghan Women
Meena Khalil – ICNA Relief USA
Dr. Mohammad Mirwais Balkhi
Daniel Altman – Fresh Start Refugee Assistance Center / NOVA RAFT
The discussion focused on resettlement challenges, immigration, family separation, education, employment, women and youth, social integration, and the long-term role of community-based organizations in supporting Afghan families.
Following the panel, an Open Forum with Participants, moderated by Lima Anwari, created space for Afghans to share their experiences directly, strengthen community voices, and engage in a broader national dialogue centered on unity and solidarity. With Afghanistan’s Independence Day approaching, the discussion also emphasized the importance of mutual respect, national dialogue, and building a stronger culture of cooperation among Afghans.
At the conclusion of the program, Rohullah Ahmadzai presented the Joint Conference Statement, highlighting the need for stronger cooperation among organizations, improved services for refugees and immigrants, greater support for women and youth, better access to education and legal services, and continued international attention to the humanitarian needs of the people of Afghanistan.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Batool Behnam, the event’s Master of Ceremonies, as well as to all speakers, panelists, volunteers, media representatives, partners, and participants who contributed to the success of the conference.
We also express our gratitude to our partners and supporters:
United Christian Parish
Global Afghan Insight
International Kindness Sharing Organization
Najm Jewelers LLC
Mantu Halal Food LLC
The conference carried a clear message:
The story of Afghans did not end on August 15, 2021. We must remember the past, speak honestly about the present, and work together toward a future built on dignity, opportunity, cooperation, community, and unity.
Afghanistan: Five Years After the Fall
Remembrance. Truth. Solidarity. Action.
