Volume 21, Issue 7 Ramadan Kareem 05.31.2019

Omar Suleiman Gives Opening Invocation Congress to The US House of Representatives Resolution Members of the American right Smears Him Page. 3 By Yousuf Ali Imam Omar Suleiman, the director of the Ya- qeen Institute, gave the Tensions opening invocation on the floor of the U.S. House of Grow Representatives. He gave Page. 7 a prayer for peace and guidance of the house members on March 9. In it, he said, “Let us not be deterred by the hatred that has claimed American the lives of innocent Muslims worshippers across the world, but emboldened Page. 11 by the love that gathered them together to remem- In response, members with accusations against tative Lee Zeldin (R-NY) ber you, and gathered of the American right him for being radical. us together to remember went after Suleiman This included represen- Cont. on page 13. them.” Trump Hosts Second Iftar Trump Can Avoid War Without Muslim Organizations & Negotiate with Iran

By Muqtedar Khan the Islamic Republic. While dealing with the Riyadh is the primary current Iran crisis, U.S. actor pushing Washing- President ton to confront Tehran By: Aysha Qamar hosted the dinner in must realize that the right now. However, the Israelis have tried for

PAID honor of Muslims and 48068 danger to U.S. national Prsrt std Despite previous Is- Permit#792 U. S. Postage U. Royal Oak, MI Royal emphasized the meaning decades to focus U.S. lamophobic comments, interests comes not just of Ramadan as a charita- attention on the Irani- President Donald Trump from Iran’s regional ble time, however, failed an nuclear program in welcomed diplomats from ambitions but also from to invite US Muslim order to avoid a serious Muslim-majority nations the manner in which groups. conversation about the to the White House for Israel and Saudi Arabia iftar on May 13. Trump Cont. on page 13. are trying to counter Cont. on page 13.

Tel: (248) 476-8926 Fax: (248) 476-8926 [email protected] www.muslimobserver.com 2 - 05.31.2019 OPENION Racism and Bigotry Won’t Stop Me By: Nadia B. Ahmad In December 2016, I read Jodi Picoult’s Small Things Great, which helped me to understand the subtle and blatant bigotry I experienced in Connecticut for the year I lived there. The bigotry in New England has a statesman-like stale- ness that is missing in the racism of the South, where I grew up. Small Things Great had de- buted at #1 on The New York Times bestseller list at the time and was released in paperback last year. In the novel, a labor and delivery nurse, Ruth Jefferson, in New Hav- en, Connecticut hospital has more than twenty The hospital obliges the While I do not have because if I confronted nize racism and sexism years’ experience. In the parents’ wishes. Yet the to make those types each act of racism and as a former journalist, middle of her shift, she following day when Ruth of medical decisions, I sexism, that would be all attorney, and law profes- learns that after doing is alone in the nursery do have to decide in a that I do. I figure three sor as well someone who a regular checkup on a the baby goes into car- short time frame how to a month is an acceptable is naturally an introvert, newborn, she is re-as- diac arrest. In the blink respond to racism and figure. I am more sensitive than signed to another patient of an eye, Ruth has to bigotry I encounter as a Lower than I want, but others. because the parents are decide whether to follow visibly Muslim woman enough in the grand For example, one brisk white supremacists. The the hospital’s orders or on a daily basis. Of the scheme of a year. I also fall morning in October parents do not want intervene? A lawsuit, 500 or so acts of racism realize as someone 2014, I got organized Ruth, who is African trial, and media frenzy and sexism I experience trained academically and enough to go to the farm- American, to touch their ensued. on an annual basis, I professionally to recog- child. only confront three dozen Cont. on page 12 05.31.2019 - 3 NATIONAL

Congress Resolution Passed Recognizing American Muslims Congress Resolution Passed Recognizing American Muslims’ history and contri- butions to our Nation. H. RES. 276 29004 W. EIGHT MILE ROAD IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FARMINGTON, MI 48336 April 1, 2019 TEL: 248-426-7777 Ms. Judy Chu of California (for herself, Ms. Norton, Ms. McCollum, Mr. Swalwell of Cal- FAX: 248-476-8926 ifornia, Mrs. Watson Coleman, Mrs. Lawrence, Mr. Khanna, Mr. Correa, Mr. Beyer, Mr. E-MAIL: [email protected] Ryan, Mr. Krishnamoorthi, Ms. Jayapal, Ms. Sánchez, Mr. Pallone, Mr. Carson of Indiana, www.MuslimObserver.com and Ms. Omar) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Reform Established in 1998

FOUNDER A. RAHEMAN NAKADAR, M.D. EDITOR IN CHIEF Dr. Aslam Abdullah [email protected] MANAGING EDITOR Aysha Qamar [email protected] MANAGING DIRECTOR Javeria Ahmed [email protected] VIDEO MEDIA DIRECTOR Samana Shaikh [email protected]

CHICAGO COORDINATOR Mujeeb Osman [email protected] RESOLUTION many Muslims having (also known as Joseph became one of the made the ultimate Benhaley), who served first shareholders of HOUSTON COORDINATOR Recognizing American sacrifice for the United in George Washing- the second chartered Ilyas Choudry Muslims’ history and States, including Army ton’s Army and fought bank in America, the [email protected] contributions to our Corporal Kareem with General Thom- Columbia Bank; TMO Inc. Board of Directors Nation. Rashad Sultan Khan as Sumter in South (3) famed architect President: Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi Whereas the millions (1987–2007), and Carolina, Civil War and designer Fazlur of American Muslims, Vice President: Dr. Abdalmajid Katranji Army Captain Huma- Union Captain Mo- Rahman Khan, who immigrant and na- Dr. Muzammil Ahmed yun Saqib Muazzam ses Osman, who was designed the Sears tive-born, comprise Dr. Mohammed Saleem Khan (1976–2004); the highest ranking Tower and the John two percent of the total Whereas countless Muslim in that war, Hancock Center; population of the Unit- American Muslims World War II Army REPORTERS & CONTRIBUTORS ed States and have (4) Mohammad Sal- contribute to our Corporal Sheikh Naz- Noor Salem built a vibrant commu- im Abdul-Kariem, who man Hamdani, the Marina Ali Nation’s economy and nity of diverse races, served in the Battle New York City Police Susan Schwartz well-being as physi- ethnicities, viewpoints, of Normandy and the Department cadet and Soura Alzubeidi cians, business own- and backgrounds; Emergency Medical Marium Mohiuddin Battle of the Bulge, ers, laborers, service Technician who hero- Sameed Khan Whereas many African Army Sergeant First workers, teachers ically died helping oth- Mohammad Hakeem slaves brought to the Class and Korean engaging the next gen- ers in the aftermath Fatima Ahmed Americas, including eration of Americans, war prisoner-of-war Rabia Toor of the September 11th the American colo- and police officers, Mujahid Mohammed, Saba Maroof attacks on the World nies, later known as retired Chief Master firefighters, and first Trade Center; the United States of responders saving Sergeant of the United America, were Mus- lives every day; and States Air Force Talib (5) Dr. Farouk El-Baz, TMO WELCOMES Letters to the Editor and written com- lim, and made innu- M. Shareef, who now geologist and remote positions relevant to the subject matter of this newspaper. Whereas American Address them to “The Editor” at the above address. We merable contributions serves as Imam at the sensing scientist who, reserve the right to edit for clarity and content. Major Muslims have and editing is consultatively done. to the founding of our Nation’s Mosque in as Secretary of the continue to make im- Nation; Washington, DC, and Landing Site Selec- SUBMISSIONS: We welcome submissions. Please portant contributions the countless other tion Committee for send to [email protected], subject “sub- Whereas American to the advancement mission.” We ask that no submissions be made on behalf American Muslims the Apollo missions, of others. By submitting articles you are promising us that Muslims have long of our Nation that is you are the author of the article, and granting us a license who served valiantly Principal Investigator to print it without paying you. Any items received by us, served in the Na- fundamental to our whether pictures or text, become the property of The in the First and Sec- of Visual Observations tion’s Armed Forces Muslim Observer. At your request, we will try to return shared American ond World Wars, the and Photography, and them, but if we do not return them we incur no liability. and fought in all We reserve the right to make [sometimes extensive] edits values, society, and Korean and Vietnam Chairman of the Astro- — both in body and in title, before any submission goes major United States to print, and by sending us your article you assent to this. culture, including— wars, and most recent naut Training Group TMO does not necessarily agree with the opinions of its conflicts, from the writers. Contents © 2015 The Muslim Observer. (1) military veterans conflicts; of the Apollo Photo Revolutionary War to like Revolutionary Team (1967–1972), present day, with more (2) Yarrow Mamout, DISCLAIMER: Between the front and back pages of the War Virginian Cor- was instrumental in Muslim Observer are printed the varying and sometimes than 5,000 Muslims the freed Afri- controversial views (whether in text or graphics) of people poral Bampett Mu- helping NASA iden- who have submitted articles - not every word of these ar- currently serving in can-American Mus- ticles has necessarily been reviewed for content, and the hamed, Yusuf Ben Ali views submitted and expressed herein do not necessarily the Armed Forces and lim slave who later Cont. on page 12. reflect those of the Muslim Observer or its principals, staff, independent contractors, or advertisers. The Muslim Observer ISSN 1531-1759 (USP.S. 018-739) is published weekly for $100 per year by Muslim Media Network, Inc., 29004 W. 8 Mile Rd., Farmington, MI 48336. Periodicals postage paid at Farmington Hills, MI, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Muslim Observer; 29004 W. 8 Mile Rd.; Farmington, MI 48336. Subscriptions: $75/1 year; $140/2 years; Advertising: for rates contact: [email protected] 4 - 05.31.2019 NATIONAL Itikaf: Once a lifetime opportunity to remind oneself one’s reality By: Dr. Aslam Abdullah Itikaf is a practice that goes back to all those who spend time in seclusion to reflect and ponder over their pur- pose in life and who want to achieve a higher stage of spirituality. Through their contemplation and reflection on the purpose of their existence, many have offered new and unique perspectives to their fellow humans, and many have achieved higher spiritual status. It is a practice that prevails in all cultures and religions. It inspires a human being to with- draw from the regular institutionalized The fasting was declared served i’tikaf as long as days. He once observed hustle bustle of the i’tikaf in the month of obligatory for the ninth he lived. i’tikaf for 20 days. world, even from his own fasting through the prac- month of the Islamic family and focuses on is- After him, his wives con- Itikaf is performed by tice of Prophet Muham- lunar calendar in the sues that he or she deem tinued performing i’tikaf those who are fasting. mad. It is a communal second year of Prophet’s significant for oneself in the masjid. He spent Both men and women did obligation, and it means migration to Medina or and society. The length ten days in the middle of their i’tikaf during the that if the only one per- in the fifteenth year of of seclusion depends Ramadan in the masjid, time of the Prophet. At son observes it in a local- his Prophetic mission. on the social rhythm of but he advised his com- Prophet’s mosque, spe- ity, it would be regarded Except for the first year life in each culture and panions to continue do- cial arrangements were as an obligation fulfilled of fasting, the Prophet is religion. ing i’tikaf in the last ten on behalf of all. reported to have ob- Cont on page 12 Sold Out Dinner for a New Gym Project by Noor H. Salem Just several months ago, more than 500 attendees gathered to hear mes- merizing Qur’an recita- tions from Qari Shaykh Hassan Ali, Qari Shaykh Ahmad Mabrouk, and Qari Shaykh Abdulha- mid Askam at the Islam- ic Cultural Association of Farmington Hills, MI. The Qur’an Night is held annually at the ICA, and this year the vision was to fundraise for the new gym project. The construction for the project officially began August of last year, and the young and old in the Islamic community that can feel at home and years. The ICA hopes to of the night was none community are extreme- modeled their beliefs raise their children with continue to expand by other than Nihad Awad, ly ecstatic and jubilant to and values. In 1987, the hearts at ease. Since its offering more services the Executive Director see the work in progress community purchased inception, the ICA has that the community can of CAIR. He gave very occur. The ICA held an- the Franklin Building held various school and benefit from, and this ex- profound words that left other fundraising dinner, and moved to its present family functions for the traordinary gym project the audience in awe. He in continuous support of location. Two years later, occasions that matter is no exception! shared the importance of this incredibly unique it established the presti- most to its members— The evening began with having hope, investing in gym project. The expan- gious Huda School which such as Ramadan and welcoming remarks with our youth, and standing sion is planned to in- has flourished over the Eid—as well as exciting Imam Imran Salha, the firm on our principles of clude a basketball court, years. activities for the whole Imam of the Islamic faith. “Speaking up and exercise room, new wudu The ICA created a family. Cultural Association. speaking out is the right area, and more. weekend Arabic School, It has also prided it- Thereafter, Thereafter, thing to do. Speak up; The Islamic Cultural Dar-al Huda. The ICA self in offering weekly Shaykh Hussein Alraee don’t hide or run, for the Association of Farming- has continued to grow Islamic and educational recited Qur’an and left Muslim community is ton Hills was founded by and expand, offering lectures and maintaining the audience in awe with becoming stronger than a group of families who its members an Islamic a youth program that his recitation. ever.” He shared exam- hoped to establish an Cont. on page 5. environment where they has been going strong for The keynote speaker 05.31.2019 - 5 NATIONAL

Cont from page 4. to our mosque given the Fundraising Dinner space they have to play and pray. I envision our ples of how little to no ladies in the community Muslims ran for office, exercising in a private studied journalism, or workout room, playing aim to become lawyers basketball, volleyball, when CAIR first began etc. in a safe private years ago. Today, more space. I would envision than 25 hundred Muslim the growth of the com- lawyers nationwide; 131 munity and events to Muslims won political serve all ages from di- positions. verse backgrounds. This “When we respect our- project will be a great selves, others will respect service to the community us,” he said firmly and at large. proudly. How would you describe The President of the the way the youth feel as center, Ibrahim Abubars, the youngest group of the truly unique in the area. excites you the most? they see the project work gave a very insightful Saturday youth program Dinner was enjoyed, and The entire project is in progress? update about the con- gave a beautiful Nasheed the event was a beautiful something I have been Seeing the project come struction project. His performance; really hyp- social that brought the excited about! Our com- to life was the hope of presentation included ing up the entire room community in southeast munity has been waiting many of our youth who details of what was done, and earning the star Michigan together. All for a proper gym for our became young adults. the work in progress, and award of the night. for one purpose: to invest youth for many years. Since this project has the expected duration of There was a beautiful in the youth of the next Given my involvement been in the planning for the project to finish. The Nasheed session with generation. with the Islamic cultural many years, we hope that blueprints of what this the world-renowned It was an honor to previ- association as a youth our youth will restore construction project will Munshid, Mohamed ously interview Ghazal program coordinator, I their trust in our com- include only made the Altermithy. Shaykh Almradi, an Executive feel that this project will munity leaders as people community more eager Kefah Mustafa of Chi- Committee member and enhance the program and who deliver an answer to for this to complete. cago was the honorable the head of the youth be a great benefit to our their needs. So, I am sure Ghazal Almradi, the guest who conducted program coordinator youth. that the youth will be secretary of the execu- the fundraising, and in at the Islamic Cultur- watching the project with What do you envision great excitement. tive committee and head a short matter of time, al Association for her this gym brings to the of the youth committee more than $260,000 was thoughts on this exciting community? To learn more about shared insights of the raised for this crucial initiative: the ICA or contribute youth activities from the and exciting project, I would envision in- to this project visit ica- In brief, what part of this creased youth attendance past year. Thereafter, one that happens to be gym construction project mi.org

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These threats follow reports of President Donald Trump consider- ing deployment of 10,000 new troops to the region, U.S. News reported. Since former President Carter’s decision to sever diplomatic relations with Iran, in April of 1980, aggressive dialogues and growing tensions have often existed between the two countries over the years. However, tensions have recently increased, “Our hands are on the trigger and we are firmly pre- pared to annihilate any aggressor and greedy eyes against the Islamic of weapons to Saudi Ara- which legal mechanism it action.” in Istanbul. Iran,” Chief of Staff to bia, the tensions between thinks it is using, de- the Iranian Armed Forc- Many fear the weapons “I am disappointed, but the countries seem more scribed years of malign may be used against not surprised, that the es Maj. Gen. Mohammad concerning than before Iranian behavior but Hossein Bagheri said last civilians in Yemen by Trump Administration to some political ana- failed to identify what Saudi-led forces, BBC has failed once again week, according to a local lysts and members of the actually constitutes an Irani news agency. News said. Saudi Ara- to prioritize our long Congress. emergency today, and bia’s human rights term national security “The new conditions Following the President’s critically, failed to ex- record has been greatly interests or stand up of countering the U.S. recent decisions aimed plain how these systems, criticized by members of for human rights, and arrogant and pharaon- for the Middle East, Bob many of which will take Congress, the recent con- instead is granting favors ic threat invite all the Menedez of New Jersey years to come online, demnation has been for to authoritarian coun- Iranians to enter the released a statement, would immediately Sadia Arabia’s role in the tries like Saudi Arabia,” fields of jihad, full alert, “In trying to explain this benefit either the United Yemen conflict and for Menedez added. and mobilization of more move, the Administration States or our allies and the murder of Saudi jour- power,” he added. failed to even identify thus merit such hasty nalist Jamal Khashoggi Bagheri made his state- ment this past week on the occasion of the anniversary of the liber- ation of Khorramshahr on May 24, 1982 during the Iran-Iraq war. Iran has always alleged U.S’s involvement and support for Iraq’s invasion then of Iran. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told the Washington Post, the deployment of troops to the Middle East is for defensive purposes. “Our job is deterrence. This is not about war,” he said Thursday. “We have a mission there in the Middle East: freedom of navigation, counterterrorism in Syria and Iraq, defeating al-Qaeda in Yemen, and the security of Israel and .” However with the White House deploying more troops in the Middle East and President Trump also approving the sale of billions of dollars’ worth 8 - 05.31.2019 OPINION Ramadan: A Month of Longing By Dr. Muqtedar Khan thirsty for most of the Muslims believe that the awesome majesty of for unity with the divine There’s hidden sweet- day. The last couple of Ramadan is a blessed God, are qualities very more beautifully than ness in the stomach’s hours are always tough, month and the rewards difficult to muster. Sufis, anyone. He wrote in his emptiness. We are especially in the U.S., for any good action is Islamic mystics, practice “The Secrets of Fasting”: lutes, no more, no where the days are long multiplied, so much of self-renunciation as a My self, had it not been less. If the soundbox and the fasts last from the annual obligatory means to escape the exile for you, I would not have is stuffed full of any- 15 to 16 hours. and optional from God that life really been? As if I were Him, thing, no music. If the Ramadan is also the giving happens in Ra- is, but rarely succeed. It were it not for you! Were brain and belly are month in which most of madan. This is a good is not easy to become one it not for you! time to do fundraising if with God in one month. burning clean with the Muslim holy book Indeed the sense of fasting, every moment — The Quran — was re- Muslim donors are your The entire purpose of target. Islam mandates longing for a taste of the a new song comes out vealed. To celebrate the the month, indeed of Divine is never felt more of the fire. —Jalalud- revelation of the Quran, obligatory giving of 2.5 Islam itself, is to bridge percent of accumulated acutely than it is in the din Rumi on fasting in Muslims devote special the existential gap month of Ramadan. In Ramadan. prayers and try to find or surplus wealth, called between the created and , and many Mus- Ramadan, we control our The blessed month of time to reread it and to the creator. As long as appetite for the created recommit to its teaching lims give it in the month the created asserts her Ramadan is here again. of Ramadan. things with the fond Hundreds of millions of and its commandments. individual being, she hope that desire for the Muslims will fast for a After fasting all day, The more difficult parts remains distanced from Creator will finally be month. They will abstain many men and women are the ones that demand the true Reality of being. satiated. from eating or drinking spend two to three hours spiritual discipline. The ultimate goal is to every night reciting the The struggle to control annihilate (Fana’a) one’s Those who fast with from dawn to dusk. They genuine dedication, will stand for hours in chapters of the Quran in one’s Id, to master one’s own self in order to be either congregational or anger and pride, to learn united with the ultimate those who struggle to prayers each night to conquer the self, those remember their Lord individual prayers. humility and to recognize and the universal Self. Cont on page 11. and express their grat- the insignificance of the The great SufiIbn Arabi itude to Him, seek His self in comparison to captured this longing forgiveness and aspire to

AH REL come closer to Him. The M IE M F month of Ramadan is U UMMAH RELIEF easily the world’s largest INTERNATIONAL I and longest spiritual N L T A akat itra adaqa aFFara idya and iSabeelillah onation festival. Muslims strive E N Z , F , S , k , F F /d R IO hard in this month to NAT re-sew the torn fabric of “Charity Extinguishes Sin Like Water Extinguishes Fire”- Noble Hadith human spirituality even as political and material OUR COMMITMENT impulses asunder it. We are committed to providing food for the hungry, shelter for the Fasting is one of the homeless, and medicine for the sick. Ummah Relief International five pillars of Islam. The is a grassroots organization. We believe it is our duty as Muslims Quran instructs that its to carry on this noble mission to help and assist needy people on purpose is to teach Mus- the basis of humanity. lims self-restraint. The ritual involves system- COUNTRIES atic abstinence of things URI provides emergency relief all over the world when disastrous normal to body, mind situations occur as well as helping in the following countries where and spirit. From dawn to people live in severe poverty: dusk the limits are clear: Afghanistan Indonesia Myanmar(Burma) Syria no eating, no drinking, Albania Kashmir Nigeria USA no sex, no fighting, no Bangladesh Kenya Pakistan Yemen backbiting, no lying, no Bosnia Kosovo Palestine anger, no arrogance, no Ethiopia Lebanon Somalia pride, no despair. In this India Mali Sudan month the sovereignty of the spirit over the body Donate Generously for the Betterment of Humanity and the mind is reassert- Sponsor an Orphan ...... $30 per month Please send your Educational Sponsorship for 1 child...... $30 per month ed to restore the divine payable to: order of things. Sewing Machines for women ...... $75 per machine UMMAH Food for a family of 7 ...... $125 per month The point of the exercise RELIEF INTERNATIONAL Food Basket for refugees ...... $185 per family for adult Muslims, who P.O. Box 1426 Drinking Water Hand Pump ...... $400 Elgin, IL 60121 USA Tandoor: Bread Making Oven ...... $450 are healthy and able, Tel: 847-622-0574 is to develop a regimen Fax: 847-741-3816 Rebuilding of houses...... $850 per house of self-restraint and to www.ummahrelief.org Natural Disaster Relief ...... $150 inculcate a capacity to, Tube Well drinking water ...... Visit our website for options! borrowing a term from Email: [email protected] Plato, control one’s ap- petites. The hope is that Call 1-800-713-4482 For online , please visit: www.ummahrelief.org/donation this mandatory regimen YES! I want to support Ummah projects, please accept my tax deductible contribution will become a habit and Tax ID # 36-3954960 Not for Profit:501 (C) 3 (Check /Money Order Accepted) Muslims will spend the rest of the year in a state First Name: $10,000 $5000 $1000 $500 $250 $100 $50 Other of high spiritual alert. Last Name: My Monthly Donation One Time Donation VISA/MC AM-EX DISCOVER The easy part of the Card No.: month of Ramadan is Address: the physical part. After City: State: Zip: Exp. Date: CV No.: a week the body and the Signature: mind adjust and one Phone: Cell: rarely feels hungry or Email: 9 - 05.31.2019 ADVERTISMENT 05.31.2019 - 10 ADVERTISEMENT

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Please mail your tax deductible donation to: 29008 W. 8 Mile Road • Farmington, MI 48336 You can also make your donation online by visiting www.afmi.org 05.31.2019 - 11 OPINION American Muslims in by Muhi Khwaja nizations. A majority of Co-Founder, Director of the projects fund health Development & Philan- initiatives, international thropy at American relief and development, Muslim Fund houses of worship, and education. When Hurricane Har- vey devastated parts Giving Circles: of Houston in 2017, A giving circle is a form like many in America, of philanthropy where Muslim families came groups of individuals together to donate to the donate their own money Houston Food Bank and or time to a pooled fund, the American Red Cross. deciding together which Earlier this year, when nonprofit or communi- the tragedies targeting ty project to support. religious communities With the Immigration forward. sadaqa, the American In doing so, the giving in New Zealand, Sri Act of 1964, business Muslim Fund (AMF) circle seeks to increase Lanka, and Pittsburgh Many Muslims abide by their awareness of and visas allowed for “the the third pillar of the was founded in 2016 as a happened, the Muslim brightest and best” from grassroots, national com- engagement in the issues community stepped up to faith, zakat, which in covered by the charity. other countries, unlike Arabic means purity. The munity . There donate and help rebuild. the Muslim ban of today are over 750 community AMF currently operates These are just a few ex- act of giving zakat two giving circles that which restricts entry and is a means of purifying foundations across the amples that showcase the access. country, yet AMF is the utilize a range of criteria valuable impact minority one’s wealth. One is for selecting causes to Despite the many barri- obligated to partake in first to focus on Donor communities can have in Advised Funds, Giving support. philanthropy. ers that minorities face, giving zakat if they have these communities have accumulated wealth for Circles, and endowments Ramadan and Giving There are roughly 3.8 grit and are devoted to over a year in the equiv- for the Muslim commu- As Muslim’s fast during million Muslims in the hard work. Today, as alent amount of 3 oz of nity. We help connect this month from sunrise United States and as we more Muslims are repre- gold. In addition to giv- nonprofits with Muslim to sunset, they abstain celebrate and observe sented in Congress and ing zakat, many Muslims philanthropists to from their primal desires, Ramadan this month, it’s minorities take advan- also give what is known social change. AMF also increase their acts of important to recognize tage of educational and as sadaqa, or general provides an opportunity good deeds, such as char- our history and contribu- business options avail- charity alms. The prac- for the general public to itable giving, be extra tions to social causes in able in the United States, tice of taking from what support a cause that is courteous, and partake this country. economic empowerment you’ve earned and to give empowering the rights in additional prayers. Islam in America is is improving the lifestyle it to others who need it is of the American Muslim American Muslim Fund nothing new. The Plural- experience generation a humbling practice. The community and show- is expected to exceed $1 ism Project at Harvard to generation. This can word zakat and sadaqa cases the impact that million in cumulative University demonstrates also lead to increased (almsgiving) are men- Muslim charitable giving giving this Ramadan that Muslims reached philanthropic and civic tioned over 80 times in can have. In a time when and we’re proud of our the shores of America in participation. A study the Qur’an, often times minority communities partner organizations 1178 CE. Roughly one- by the Institute of Social with prayer. There are are marginalized, having who benefit including the third of slaves brought to Policy and Understand- several examples of the institutions to empower University of Texas at the Western Hemisphere ing shows that Muslims closest companions to the them is critical. Austin, Muslim Foster were African Muslims. who are more active in Prophet who Here’s a look at the way Care Association, and Many spoke Arabic and their mosques are more would compete in good AMF is connecting do- Clubfoot Solutions, to retained their religious likely to vote. deeds and acts of worship nors to issues they care name a few. via spending their wealth identity like Omar Bin Donors in the U.S. gave about: AMF hopes that funding in favor of Islam. Other Said who passed away in $410 billion in 2017. Donor Advised Funds these projects showcases stories indicate that it’s North Carolina in 1781. Muslims may not be giv- (DAFs): the valuable impact mi- best to not disclose how The U.S. Consul to the ing $4 billion as 1 percent nority communities can you make a difference A donor-advised fund is Philippines, Alexander of the population, but the have in philanthropy and and leave the reward be- a giving vehicle that pro- Russell Webb, was a con- way Muslims give varies demonstrates the need tween you and God. Both vides you with immediate vert to Islam. The longest as some are given direct- for a community foun- standing purpose-built ways are right! tax?benefits and allows ly to individuals in need, you to support your char- dation which represents mosque is in Cedar Rap- The added benefit of in- as opposed to nonprofit ities of choice through and is reflective of itself. ids, Iowa since 1934. Two creasing acts of goodwill organizations. Indiana grant recommendations Philanthropy is often of the most prominent in Ramadan is incentiv- University’s Center on on your own timetable. translated as ‘the love American Muslims, Mal- ized by the blessings in Muslim Philanthropy, Since 2017, 40 families of mankind,’ and what colm X and Muhammad Pillars Fund, and Amer- reward Muslims seek. a better way to demon- Ali helped Islam to come have opened DAFs with ican Muslim Fund hope American Muslim Fund AMF and have granted strate that than to make into the mainstream to provide more insight the world a better place through their Black To help Muslims stream- more than $800,000 to into tracking this going over 100 nonprofit orga- through funding missions identity in the 1960s. line their zakat and with charitable giving.

Cont. from page 8. At the end of the month, Dr. M. A. Muqtedar of cleansing, of purifica- heaviness in the heart Ramadan for some, there is a feel- Khan is Professor in tion, which is difficult to and one prays for one ing of lightness as if the the Department of describe, but profoundly more chance to maybe who fight to control their weight of impurities that Political Science and palpable. get it right the next time. bodies, those who give one had been carrying International Rela- At the end of the month, Dr. M. A. Muqtedar charity and those who and accumulating all tions at the University for some, there is a feel- Khan is Professor in exercise humility; they yearlong has been lifted. of Delaware. ing of lightness as if the the Department of do experience a feeling For others, there is a who fight to control their weight of impurities that Political Science and of cleansing, of purifica- heaviness in the heart bodies, those who give one had been carrying International Rela- tion, which is difficult to and one prays for one charity and those who and accumulating all tions at the University describe, but profoundly more chance to maybe exercise humility; they yearlong has been lifted. of Delaware. palpable. get it right the next time. do experience a feeling For others, there is a 05.31.2019 - 12 CONTINUED STORY

Cont. from page 2. the farmer’s market from ly, darted my eyes at could sit at tea time and man in Bethel, Connecti- Racism and Bigotry the more rural parts of him, and responded, have their British tea. cut, who made us feel the state. In my calculus “Well, he is.” There was such a thing that we do not belong er’s market in Bethel, to go to the farmer’s mar- as the British Raj. The across the street or Connecticut, right across The old man grinned, ket, I had not factored British wanting India so welcome at the farmer’s the street from my house. “No, he’s not.” the latter. Notice how I they could rule the entire market. I was somewhat proud grouped the “Connecti- I ignored him and went subcontinent.” that I was going to walk Words can sting. But cut farmers” all into one about my business select- there with two kids and The old man listened harm can occur in more category. In my enthusi- ing carrots and kale. get nutritious, locally with the disgust build- sinister modes. Of the asm to embrace the New grown vegetables versus All the while, I was trem- ing up in his face that I ways that rage and England culture and driving to the supermar- bling I was so annoyed. could actually speak and hatred are expressed are surroundings, I dressed ket and buying imported When I saw the man smirks, “He doesn’t look against real property my son in a sweater my produce transported again, pointing at my British.” in the form of trespass, sister/his doting aunt son about eight minutes thousands of miles. I walked away this time, vandalism, and arson as had gotten for him from later, I grabbed my son’s well as personal property Yet the decision to walk but content at the spec- London. The sweater hand tight, pushed my and the person itself. across the street versus was dark navy blue with daughter in the stroller tacle that I had created. to drive to the comfort, a British flag across the with the other hand, and My son was not British, The link between attacks convenience, and famil- front, and it was super mustered the courage to but I was seared by the on places of worship iarity of the supermarket warm. confront the old man. comment that he did not and white supremacy store not much further look British. is well-documented and As I was picking veg- away exposed me in two “Maybe you don’t think well known. Earlier this etable greens, I hear I turned to my son and ways. First, I would have he’s British. Maybe you month of Ramadan, a the voice of an old man said, “He doesn’t know to cross a busy intersec- don’t know what British mosque in New Haven, with a small, white what he’s talking about.” tion with an infant and a is. Maybe you don’t know Connecticut, was set beard chuckle, “That boy toddler. the British colonized When the people of Lon- ablaze intentionally. The doesn’t look very Brit- the entire Indian sub- don elected Sajid Khan attack displaces worship- Second, I would have to ish.” continent for 500 years as the mayor of London ers during the Muslim “deal” with the Connecti- I turned around instant- and ruled us as colonial in 2016, I wondered if the holy month of Ramadan. cut farmers, who came to subjects so the British news reached that old

Cont. from page 3. Islamic Psychology at the known as ; the United Nations from and business tycoon Congress Resolution University of Southern (11) Imam Warith Deen 2007–2009, and Adam Shahid Khan, Islamic tify the landing sites on California, and Dr. Zehra Mohammed (born Wal- Sha­koor, the first Muslim fashion designer and the Moon for the Apollo Siddiqui, who focuses lace D. Muhammad), judge in the country; Verona Collection com- program; on providing health care referred to by many as (13) elected officials like pany founder Lisa Vogl, for underserved popula- America’s Imam, an Indiana Congressman founder of Iman Cosmet- (6) noted academics and tions including homeless ics and philanthropist researchers like Dr. Su- African-American Mus- André Carson, Minne- individuals, immigrants, lim leader and theologian sota Congresswoman Zara (Iman) Mohamed layman S. Nyang, profes- and those without health Abdulmajid, hair and spa sor and former chairman who worked tirelessly to Ilhan Omar, Michigan insurance; unite the diverse Muslim Congresswoman Rashi- care business magnate of the African Studies Farouk Shami, Chobani Department at Howard (8) Olympic medalists community and Nation, da Tlaib, Minnesota like boxer Muhammad and, in 1992, was the Attorney General Keith Greek Yogurt founder, University, Dr. Intisar A. chairman, and CEO, Rabb, Professor of Law at Ali, track and field ath- first American Muslim to Ellison, Virginia State lete Dalilah Muhammad, deliver the invocation for representative Sam Hamdi Ulukaya, and Dr. Harvard Law School and Mark Humayun, who a director of its Islamic and fencer Ibtihaj Mu- the Senate; Rasoul, Pennsylvania hammad; State representative co-invented Argus series Legal Studies Program, (12) public servants retina implants; and Asifa Quraishi-Landes, (9) professional athletes like Dr. Ahmed Has- Movita Johnson-Harrell, comparative law expert like basketball players san Zewail, who won a and local council mem- (15) entertainers like ac- at the University of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Nobel Prize in Chemistry bers, including Aisha tor and comedian Hasan Wisconsin-Madison, and Hakeem Olajuwon, and and was a Presidential Wahab from Hayward, Minaj, rapper Lupe Fias- Zareena Grewal, Ameri- Shaquille O’Neal, football Council of Advisors on California, Susan Dabaja co, the first Muslim actor can studies and religious players like Muhammad Science and Technology of Dearborn, Michigan, to win an Oscar, Maher- studies scholar at Yale Wilkerson, Ameer Abdul- member, former Deputy Shahid Shafi of South- shala Ali, the creator of University; lah, brothers Husain and Director of the United lake, Texas, and Basheer Mr. Robot, Sam Esmail, Jones from Cleveland, and comedian and actor (7) health professionals Hamza Abdullah, and States National Secu- two-time world heavy- rity Council and Nixon Ohio; Maysoon Zayid: Now, like Dr. Elias A. Zer- therefore, be it houni, director of the weight champion Hasim administration advisor (14) entrepreneurs and National Institutes of Shariff Rahman; Dr. Robert (Farooq) D. business leaders like Resolved, That the House Health, Dr. Heather (10) religious leaders like Crane, and Zalmay Kha­ chairman, CEO, and of Representatives rec- Laird-Johnson, Founder, African-American Mus- lil­zad, who served as president of Ethan Allen ognizes the historic and President, and Director lim imam, civil rights ac- the United States Am- Interiors Inc., Farooq valuable contributions of the Center for Mus- tivist and reformer Hajj bassador to Afghanistan Kathwari, National of the American Muslim lim Mental Health and Malik El Shabazz, also from 2003–2005, Iraq Football League Jack- community to the United from 2005–2007, and sonville Jaguars owner States. Cont. from page 4. to have itikaf should intensity. opportunity to reflect on on the following four Itekaf enter the masjid before Imam Malik said: “A the condition of Muslims prayers made for women follow- the sunset with a clear person doing itikaf is and would discuss strat- 6.Quranic recitation of ing this practice of the intention. During his not doing itikaf until he egies with the strategies the passages that were Prophet. stay, his focus should not avoids what someone to improve the quality of revealed until then During the Itikaf a per- be his family, business or doing itikaf should avoid, spiritual and social life. 7.Deeper reflections on son doing itikaf should work. However, he can namely, , There are four things the divine guidance of spend the night only in delegate others to take praying over the dead, that are proven from the the existence of life the mosque where he/ care of these matters in and entering houses, ex- practice of the Prophet she is doing itikaf, except his absence. If due to cept to relieve himself.” during itikaf. 8.Quietly helping others observing the itikaf. if the tent is in one of some unavoidable situa- The best practice is to 1.Consuming less food the courtyards of the tion one has to abandon absorb oneself in prayers 2.Sleeping less number of In fact, itikaf is once a mosque. If the masjid the i’tikaf for intended and recitation of the hours lifetime opportunity to does not have toilet days, he or she has to Quran reflecting on its 3.Lesser engagement in focus on one’s life and facilities than the person complete it later. Itikaf is meaning and relevance conversation. purpose in relation to the doing itikaf can go home an act of ibada (worship) in one’s life. The proph- 4.Lesser social interac- creator and His creation. to relieve. and it must be performed et in addition to doing tion. The person who wants with full sincerity and this would also use the 5.Instead, he would focus 05.31.2019 - 13 CONTINUED STORY

Cont. from page 1. islamophobic attacks calling for love & unity. They were activists, and me, of course throwing in Omar Suleiman against a peace-loving What do Republicans do? my late mother wrote the Islamophobic trope Imam. According to TRT, Trash him as an extrem- poetry about the Pales- ‘supporter of the Muslim claiming that Nancy British journalist Mehdi ist and an anti-Semite. tinian catastrophe. But Brotherhood’ to make me Pelosi made a “bad call” Hasan tweeted, “A Mus- America, 2019.”In the I was taught early on to seem particularly scary, for inviting a “radical” lim-American Imam of Dallas News, Suleiman not let championing the it’s important to ask why Imam. These attacks Palestinian descent – @ defended himself against Palestinian cause de- I’m suddenly the target also led both Suleiman omarsuleiman504 [Omar the attacks against him scend into anti-Semitism of these smears and not and members of the left Suleiman’s Twitter Han- by saying “My parents in private or in public.” before in other similar to defend him against dle] – with a long track were displaced Pal- “When a politician who appearances,” he added, this backlash.Sulei- record of interfaith work, estinians due to the knows nothing about in reference to his pre- man’s supporters quickly speaks in Congress & occupation and ended me leads the charge in vious appearances with defended him against offers a beautiful prayer, up meeting in Houston. trying to mischaracterize . what they saw as unfair

Cont from page 1. Many Muslim activists Relations (CAIR), Amer- dors from many Mus- Since Trump’s inaugu- Trump Iftar and organizations publi- ica’s largest Muslim civil lim-majority nations ration into the White “Ramadan is a time cally stated that should liberties advocacy organi- including Saudi Arabia, House, violence against when people joined forces they have been invited zation. Kuwait, Jordan and the Muslims and people of in pursuit of hope, toler- they would have declined American Muslim orga- color has seen a signifi- ance, and peace. It is in due to Trump’s past nizations have happily were in attendance. cant increase. According this spirit that we come comments on the Islamic attended past iftars The iftar seemed to be to the FBI, a total of together tonight,” Trump community. under Clinton, Bush and targeted towards build- 7,175 hate crime inci- said. “It would be very, very Obama, although many ing relationships in the dents were reported in 2017, representing a 17 This is the second iftar to awkward for us to be of them boycotted during Gulf as opposed to Amer- there, in the presence the start of the Iraq war. ican Muslims, despite percent increase over be hosted in the Pres- 2016 data and the great- ident’s term. In 2017 of a president who is Political and Congress Trump’s speech noting anti-Muslim, anti-im- America as a country of est single-year increase Trump broke the tradi- members, identifying reported since 2001, tion that President Bill migrants, who supports as Muslim, have been diversity and acceptance. white supremacy, and when hate crime target- Clinton started in 1996 present in past iftars, “We thank god that ing Arab Americans and and did not host a recep- racist policies against however, first Muslim America is a place found- communities of color American Muslims, and tion. Both this and last Congresswomen Ilhan ed on beliefs that citizens those perceived to be year, American Muslim and minorities,” said Omar and Rashida Tlaib of all faiths can live Nihad Awad, Executive Arab or Muslim, surged organizations and law- were not in attendance together in safety and in the aftermath of 9/11. makers were not a part Director of the Council Monday night. Cabinet live together in freedom,” of the guest list. on American-Islamic members and ambassa- he said Cont from page 1. table. Trump wants a more devastating than has significantly in- with vastly more resourc- Trump Can Avoid War better deal with Iran, not the Iraq war. creased. Washington has es unable to overcome war. lost prestige, influence an impoverished nation stalled Mideast peace The Iraq War and its But his allies, Israel Consequences and power as a result with determination, with process and the growth of this war. The Middle all those involved bleed- of illegal settlements in and Saudi Arabia, who The Iraq war was cata- have received enormous East is now composed of ing lives, resources and the West Bank. Together, strophic at many levels. many failed states and reputation. the Saudis and Israelis support and cooperation According to the Con- from his administration, can be described as a The Way Forward For have put the U.S. in a gressional Budget Office, failed region. The rise confrontational position want to neuter Iran. the 8-years long military the United States They both seek to elim- and fall of Daesh has also from which it would be intervention cost more unleashed forces in the The United States must very difficult for Wash- inate Tehran capacity than $2.4 trillion — come out of this Iran cri- to have any geopolitical West which are detri- ington to extricate itself. funds that Washington mental to democracy. sis without emboldening Just recently Israeli impact in the region. could have used to elim- Iran and without risk- Prime Minister Benjamin They see regime change inate student debt and Along with xenophobia, ing its interests and its Netanyahu tweeted this as the way to alter Iran’s build a universal health has moved allies’ interests in the re- shared intent. foreign policy behavior. care system. Nearly front and center in gion. It’s a tough ask, but It appears that Trump’s many European nations. Even though the United 4,500 Americans and I have two recommenda- allies and some elements over 288,000 Iraqis have Daesh’s attacks in Eu- tions to make it possible. States does not want to in his administration rope have played a signif- go to war with Iran, Sau- been killed as a result of First, Trump should fire (Secretary of State Mike the war. It gave birth to icant role in unleashing Bolton to signal to Iran di imperatives could trig- Pompeo and National Far-Right extremist ger an unintended armed the monstrous ISIS or and others that Washing- Security Adviser John Daesh, which brought forces on the continent. ton is not interested in conflict, which we Amer- Bolton) are getting ahead The consequences of the icans would have to deal terror, death, and may- starting a war with Iran. of the president’s think- hem to four continents Iraq war are still unfold- Bolton has for decades with for a long time to ing and have precipitated ing, and its impact on the come. Conservatives like since 2014. argued that Iran should a dangerous situation, global order is profound- be bombed and also Sen. Tom Cotton, who increasing the risks of Millions of Syrians have ly destabilizing. The thinks the U.S. can win become refugees and two took $40,000 as recently war. current crisis with Iran as 2016 from Mujahi- a war with Iran in two major Arab countries is just one of the many strikes, further inflame Trump now has a tiger — Iraq and Syria — are deen-E-Khalq (MEK), an by the tail. He cannot unanticipated side effects Iranian rebel group that the situation at home, shattered states. The of the Iraq war. encouraging indiscretion hold on to it, he cannot war also spotlighted the Washington considered a over deliberation. Trump let it go. If he backs hidden cleavages in the In the short term, the terrorist organization un- was against the Iraq war down, then he will look Western alliance. France United States and its til 2012. Iran and others and is fundamentally op- weak and Iran will feel and Germany broke with allies will win a military interpreted his appoint- posed to major interven- emboldened to pursue the United Kingdom and conflict with Iran. But ment as national security tions in the Middle East its efforts to change the United States and did in the long term, the advisor as an expression and elsewhere. His with- regional order in the not join the “coalition of cost to the region, the of Trump’s openness to drawal from The Joint Middle East. But if the the willing”. Since then, global economy, and the exercising a military op- Comprehensive Plan of president continues on Transatlantic relations global order will be far tion vis-a-vis Tehran. Action — the “nuclear this path, sends 120,000 have only weakened; a reaching. To my mind, There is a near unani- deal” with Iran — and troops to the region, and war with Iran may break the Saudi-Yemeni war mous view that Bolton subsequent imposition of allows Bolton to play those ties. is a good metaphor for is the man driving the additional sanctions are point on this issue, then what a U.S.-Iran war The United States has movement toward war. designed to force Iran to he risks triggering a war could look like, albeit on also suffered tremen- His departure will allevi- return to the negotiating that in nearly everyone’s a different scale. Essen- Cont. on page 15 opinion would be far dously. Its national debt tially, a stronger power 14 - 05.31.2019 ADVERTISEMENT 05.31.2019 - 15 ADVERTISEMENT

Cont from page 13. an opportunity he would bia and the United Arab Washington. Through University of Delaware. Trump Can Avoid War sabotage any dialogue Emirates) and Israel, these moves, the Trump Dr. Khan is the author of between Washington and with the UAE acting as Administration can Islam and Good Gover- ate that anxiety. Firing Tehran. Advisers in the proxy for Israel. If Iran bridge the gap between nance: A Political Philos- Bolton would signal to Trump administration is willing to work with its policy of maximum ophy of Ihsan – his latest Iran, the Gulf nations, come and go frequently these nations and as- pressure and how to book that was published and Israel that Washing- anyway. Thus, getting suage their immediate bring the clerical regime by Palgrave on April ton is looking for other rid of Bolton should not fears, the next step could back to the negotiating 9, 2019. His website is means to deal with Iran. be considered a huge be direct U.S.-Iran talks table. www.ijtihad.org and he This reduced probability price to pay for peace. that Trump desires. Dr. Muqtedar Khan is a tweets at @muqtedark- of war will force all par- While its rhetoric may han. ties to consider negotia- Second, Washington Senior Fellow with the should call on its NATO suggest otherwise, Teh- Center for Global Policy tions. ran realizes that in order ally Turkey and Qatar (CGP), and a Professor This article first ap- Bolton’s tough demands to initiate a dialogue to avoid war and end the in the Department of of Kim Jong Un part- excruciating pain of eco- peared in the Naviga- between Iran, the Gulf Political Science & Inter- tor, Center for Global ly derailed the North Arab states (Saudi Ara- nomic sanctions, it must national Relations at the Korean dialogue. Given once again negotiate with Policy.

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