CLEVELAND, Ohio—Khizr Khan has accomplished a lot in his lifetime, but he says one of his greatest moments was when he became an American citizen.

  • Khizr Khan was the keynote speaker at Global Cleveland's Constitution Day Forum, that commemorated the 232nd anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution
  • Khan discussed life since is powerful speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention
  • Khan, a Gold Star Father, attorney and naturalized citizen, recently authored a book

“When I became a citizen like many others, I recited that oath of citizenship which new citizens recite, I remember a certain part of it every day as it states, forgive me if I lose my composure while I read this line, it means so very much… that I will support and defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic,” said Khan.

So it was fitting that Khan was the keynote speaker at Global Cleveland’s Constitution Day Forum.

The event, which took place at the City Club of Cleveland, is a part of the organization’s “Welcoming Week” — a celebration of immigrants who now call Northeast Ohio home. 

“I am a patriotic immigrant American, I am a Muslim also, but being a Muslim is circumstantial to my calling,” said Khan.

Khan rose to prominence during his powerful speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, when he pulled a copy of the U.S. Constitution from his pocket.

During Wednesday’s forum, the Gold Star Father, who lost his son in the Iraq war, spoke of patriotism, sacrifice, and the importance of knowing America’s history.

“The history is compelling and relevant, it informs our future, our story is powerful and inclusive, educational and important to share,” said Khan.

Khan also expressed to attendees how important it is to not only know the constitution, but uphold it, and make sure those in power do the same.

“That shining city needs you and me and our voice so that it continues to be a beacon for all free-minded people, let's stand in solidarity as Americans...speak, organize, vote, and do the most what you can from your platform as dignified citizens of this blessed nation,” said Khan.

Khan recently authored a book, titled, This Is Our Constitution: What It Is and Why It Matters.