Lecture Notes: The Pakistani Community in Wyoming

Introduction

• Wyoming is known for:
  • Bison
  • National Parks
  • Cowboy Culture
• Least populous state in the U.S.
• Surprisingly, there's a historic Pakistani community in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Origin of the Pakistani Community

• Zarif Khan (Hot Tamale Louie)
  • Arrived in U.S. in 1907, before Pakistan existed.
  • Part of the first South Asian immigration wave.
  • Known for selling hamburgers and tamales.
  • Faced discrimination due to faith and ethnicity.

Community Contributions and Challenges

• Zarif Khan's Legacy
  • Helped American soldiers in WWII.
  • Known for philanthropy and community support.
  • Built three mosques in Pakistan.
  • Misidentified ethnically (often thought to be from Turkey, Afghanistan, etc.).
  • Regained U.S. citizenship in 1954.

The Khan Family Business Empire

• After Zarif's death, his family continued his legacy.
• Fatima Khan (wife) and Fareed (brother-in-law) expanded into hotels.
• Khan family now owns several hotels across Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, and South Dakota.
• The family faced racial bullying and challenges building a mosque.

Community Support and Integration

• Despite challenges, the Khan family received community support.
• Local support came from city officials and residents for mosque constructions.
• The Khan family is deeply integrated and proud to be from Wyoming.

Conclusion

• The family’s success story started with Zarif Khan.
• Wyoming is appreciated for its beauty and welcoming nature.
• The Khan family represents a significant part of Wyoming's cultural landscape.