Michigan street named after Khaleda Zia

A street in the US state of Michigan has been named after Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s three-time former prime minister and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), marking a significant recognition of a Bangladeshi political leader abroad.

The Hamtramck City Council approved a proposal to rename a section of Carpenter Street, located in the heart of Hamtramck, between Joseph Campau Avenue and Conant Street, in honour of Khaleda Zia. The decision was backed by the city council, which currently includes four councillors of Bangladeshi origin, whose active advocacy played a key role in securing the approval.

Members of the Bangladeshi diaspora have described the naming as more than a symbolic gesture, calling it an international acknowledgment of Bangladesh’s political struggle, democratic journey and leadership legacy. They said the recognition reflects the growing visibility and influence of the Bangladeshi community in local US governance.

This is not the first time a Bangladeshi leader has been honoured in the United States. Earlier, a street in Chicago was named after late president Ziaur Rahman. With the addition of Khaleda Zia’s name in Michigan, expatriates say a significant chapter of Bangladesh’s political history has gained a lasting presence in the US.

Local residents and community leaders believe the initiative will help younger generations of Bangladeshi Americans learn more about Bangladesh’s history and the contributions of its national leaders. Hamtramck, known for its cultural diversity, is seen as an ideal setting for strengthening social and cultural ties between Bangladesh and the United States through such recognition.