Reflections on Muharram and Ashura As we welcome the new Islamic year we should take time to reflect on ourselves and how we can make this year better than the last. Learning about the virtues of Muharram and Ashura can help us understand how we can start off strong and set ourselves up for a successful year ahead. Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar and is said to be the most virtuous of the 4 sacred months. The word ‘Muharram’ itself means ‘the honored and sacred one.’ It is the only month attributed to the name of Allah as The Messenger of Allah saw said, “The best month for observing fasting after Ramadan is the month of Allah, Muharram, and the best salah after the prescribed salah is the salah at night.” (Muslim) The significant day of Ashura also lies in the month of Muharram which is one of the reasons that makes it the most virtuous of the sacred months. Ashura is the tenth day of Muharram and fasting on this day pre-dates back to pre-islamic era. When the Prophet Muhammad saw arrived at Madinah the Jews were observing the fast of Ashura and they said this is the day when Musa became victorious over Firaun. On that the Prophet (saw) said to his companions, “You have more right to celebrate Musa’s victory than they have, so observe the fast on this day.” (Bukhari) Fasting the day of Ashura was made obligatory in the first year of hijrah and voluntary in the second year after the revelation of the month of Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) encouraged fasting on the 10th of Muharram and intended to also fast on the 9th as a way to distinguish Muslims from the disbelievers. It is said, “The fasting of the day of Ashura will expiate the previous years’ sins.” (Ibn majah) Many events of the past related to the victory of God illustrate the significance of this day as well. This includes the parting of the Sea for Musa AS to escape the tyranny of Firaun, the landing of Nuh AS ship on mount Judi escaping the ridicule of his people. Later Husayn RA was martyred at Karbala on this day escaping the oppression of unjust governance. Ashura in essence highlights the importance of justice in Islam. This year Ashura might be more important and relevant than ever before as we have been witnessing the unbearable oppression of our brothers and sisters in Palestine. We see Ashura in a new light as almost a celebration of resistance to oppression and anticipated victory of God. If we are blessed with the opportunity to observe the fast of ashura this year, let’s pray for forgiveness, justice and the victory that has been promised to the believers.

ICNA joins the rest of the world in observing The Second International Day to Combat Islamophobia. As we observe this special day, we reflect on the challenges faced by Muslims here in the USA and around the world. This day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to combat Islamophobia and promote understanding, tolerance, and respect for religious diversity. Islamophobia manifests itself in various forms, including hate speech, stereotyping, discrimination in employment and education, physical violence, and even state-sponsored policies targeting Muslims. Much of these challenges are fueled by many in the mainstream media and those in authority who use their platforms and voices to present Islam and Muslims in a bigoted, prejudiced and negative way. Politicians particularly often use Islamophobic rhetoric as a smoke-screen when they lack moral responsibility to face their poor performances. Such bigotry not only undermines the rights and dignity of individuals but also perpetuates division and hostility within societies much against the principles of democracy and living a pluralistic society; a pluralistic world. On this International Day of Islamophobia, ICNA calls on individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to unite in combating this menace. Let us know that bigotry, hatred for others have to place in our society, our country and our world.

Celebrating Women’s History Month Each March, the global community comes together to celebrate Women’s History Month, a dedicated time to acknowledge the achievements, contributions, and struggles of women throughout history. Central to this celebration is the recognition of women’s accomplishments across various fields and endeavors. From pioneering breakthroughs in science and technology to reshaping political landscapes and enriching the arts, women have left a permanent mark on societies, propelling human knowledge and progress forward. Women’s History Month serves as a beacon, shining a light on the remarkable contributions of women across generations while reminding us of the ongoing quest for gender equality and empowerment. The roots of Women’s History Month can be traced back to the United States, where it originated as a local celebration in Sonoma, California, in 1978. Over time, it gained momentum and by 1987, Congress declared March as the official Women’s History Month in the United States. Since then, nations around the world have united in honoring women’s history and progress. Women’s History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the imperative to address systemic barriers and injustices. Despite considerable progress, women still confront inequities in various spheres, including the workplace, politics, education, and healthcare. It underscores the enduring fight for equal rights, representation, and opportunities, particularly for women from marginalized communities. Throughout history, Muslim women have excelled in diverse fields, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes along the way. In scholarship, achievers like Fatima al-Fihri, who founded the University of Al Quaraouiyine in 859 CE, paved the way for generations of women to pursue education and intellectual inquiry. In the sciences, figures like Maryam al-Ijliya, a 10th-century mathematician, and physicist, made significant contributions to fields such as algebra and astronomy, laying the groundwork for future advancements. In the arts and literature, Muslim women have produced timeless works of poetry, literature, and visual arts that continue to inspire audiences globally. From the mystical poetry of Rabi’a al-Adawiyya to the lyrical prose of Leila Aboulela, Muslim women have utilized their creative talents to explore themes of identity, spirituality, and social justice. Moreover, Muslim women have been at the forefront of social and political movements, advocating for human rights, gender equality, and social justice. From Malala Yousafzai’s unwavering commitment to girls’ education to Tawakkol Karman’s pioneering activism for peace and democracy in Yemen, Muslim women have displayed courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite encountering unique challenges in their pursuit of equality and empowerment, including discriminatory laws, cultural norms, and gender-based violence, Muslim women continue to navigate complex intersections of identity and oppression with tenacity. Let us draw inspiration from the pioneers who have paved the way for progress and empower the next generation of women leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Together, we can build a future where gender equality is not only a goal but a reality, where women’s contributions are celebrated and valued, and where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, respect, and equality. Let’s uplift their voices, amplify their stories, and recognize their invaluable contributions to our communities and our world. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us honor the past, embrace the present, and envision a future where the achievements and aspirations of women are celebrated every day of the year.

A Time of Spiritual Renewal As the crescent moon graces the night sky, Muslims worldwide prepare to welcome the sacred month of Ramadan. Marking the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan entails one of the Five Pillars of Islam: Sawm, or Fasting. From dawn until sunset, believers abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs as an act of obedience and submission to the will of Allah. Fasting during Ramadan is not merely a ritual; it is a deeply spiritual practice intended to cultivate empathy, self-control, devotion, communal solidarity, gratitude and purify our hearts, minds, and souls. The Quran describes Ramadan as the month in which the Holy Scripture was revealed as guidance for mankind, a beacon of light amidst the darkness. The significance of Ramadan extends beyond abstaining from worldly pleasures. It serves as a time of heightened spiritual awareness, a period for individuals to draw closer to Allah through increased prayer, acts of charity and seeking His forgiveness and mercy. Ramadan is not solely about refraining from food and drink; it’s about abstaining from sinful behavior, negative thoughts, and harmful actions. The atmosphere during Ramadan is filled with tranquility and devotion. Families and communities come together to break their fast, while mosques overflow with worshippers engaged in Taraweeh prayers, reciting verses from the Quran and seeking spiritual rejuvenation. Muslims should prepare themselves months in advance for the spiritual challenge of Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) began his preparations for Ramadan even before the month of Sha’ban, fasting and increasing his acts of worship. Muslims engages in extra prayers, seek forgiveness for past mistakes and strives to improve themselves morally and spiritually. Reciting the Holy Quran during Ramadan is particularly emphasized, as it was revealed during this blessed month. Muslims should strive to complete the recitation of the entire Quran at least once during Ramadan, reflecting on its meanings and guidance for their lives. Ramadan fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Regardless of nationality or background, believers unite in their devotion to Allah, embodying the values of compassion, generosity, and humility. Charity and generosity are also central to Ramadan and Muslims are encouraged to give generously, support the less fortunate and build stronger bonds of compassion and solidarity within their communities. The act of giving during Ramadan, known as Zakat al-Fitr, ensures that all members of the community can partake in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. In today’s fast-paced world, Ramadan serves as a timely reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our spiritual roots. It offers a sanctuary from the distractions of modern life, allowing individuals to deepen their faith and strengthen their relationship with Allah. Ramadan is a month of mercy and forgiveness with the belief that during this blessed time, the gates of heaven are open, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are chained. This creates an atmosphere conducive to spiritual growth and repentance. As we embark on this sacred journey, let us embrace the blessings of Ramadan with open hearts and minds. It is an opportunity to strengthen one’s faith, purify one’s soul, and seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. As Muslims, we should all prepare to welcome Ramadan with sincerity, devotion, and a firm resolve to make the most of this blessed month. Let us strive to embody the principles of compassion, empathy, and humility in our interactions with others. May this holy month bring peace, blessings, and spiritual fulfillment to all those who observe it. Ramadan Mubarak! Wishing you a blessed and spiritually enriching Ramadan.