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Ramadan Reflections & Supplications

Assalamu Alaikkum, Join us for our exclusive Ramadan Reflections and Supplications series during the last 10 days of Ramadan,إنشاء الله‎ . Delve into moments of spiritual contemplation and heartfelt supplications from the comfort of your home. Our Zoom sessions will commence promptly at 7:00 pm EST and conclude at 7:15 pm EST. Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your Ramadan experience with us. Zoom Link: tinyurl.com/ICNASERamadan

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2nd International Day to Combat Islamophobia

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.

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Celebrating Women’s History Month

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.

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Welcome Ramadan

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.

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The Quran Perspective

Fill out my Wufoo form! The Quran Perspective This webinar will focus on following: Delve into the Quran’s teachings on compassion, fairness, and dignity. Discover practical applications for addressing poverty and discrimination in today’s world. Reflect on Quranic Principles for Current Events in Gaza, Emphasizing Social Justice. About Panelists Suhaib Webb Suhaib Webb is a contemporary American Muslim Imam, thought leader and educator. After his conversion to Islam, Webb left a career in the music industry and pursued his passion in education. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education from University of Central Oklahoma. Imam Webb has completed the memorization of the Quran and holds a number of licenses from traditional scholars in various Islamic sciences. Imam Suhaib Webb strongly advocates for an authentic articulation of the American Muslim identity. Javaid Siddiqi He is currently the CEO of Helping Hand USA and the former President of ICNA. He’s an engineer by profession, Javaid holds a Master’s degree in electrical engineering. As a resident of Lexington, KY he is a regular Khateeb in his area masaajid. Sh. Abdool Rahman Khan Sh Abdool Rahman Khan is a graduate of the Islamic University in Madinah Munawwarah, in the faculty of Shari’ah (Islamic Jurisprudence) specializing in Islamic Inheritance. He is currently serves as the chairman of the Shari’ah Council of Islamic Circle of North America and a member of the Fiqh Council of North America.

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ICNA GA Meeting 2024

ICNA GA Meeting 2024 Hundreds of brothers and sisters, connected through a profound concept of a Jama’ah, look forward to year’s largest gathering of the members of the General Assembly of Islamic Circle of North America that occurs every year in January. This year GA meeting was held between Jan 19th through Jan 21st. Over 250 associates flocked in Houston, TX, from across the country, to participate in the annual report back program. There are many objectives of this annual meeting where ICNA MGAs not only review the previous year’s progress of ICNA’s chapters, regions, divisions, departments and programs, but it gives an opportunity of socialization to rebuild and strengthen the bond of brotherhood. Ideas to progress are shared in these interactions, and professional connections are made. The meeting was formally started on Friday evening with an inspiring presentation by Dr Abdul Aziz Abdul Raheem where he introduced a unique way of Arabic language learning. Despite severe weather conditions in many states, most of the MGAs checked-in by late night. Saturday after Fajar salaat, Hafiz Inayatullah delivered a heart touching Tazkeer in which he reminded the audience about sincerity and purpose of the gathering. The meeting resumed after a nice continental breakfast and for the most part of the day various reports were presented one after the other by the Markaz, Regions, Division and various departments including ICNA Relief, HHRD, Da’wah, Baitulmaal and others. Slido tool was used to ask any questions related to the presentations. Breaks for prayers, food and snacks were incorporated at appropriate times. MGA introductions were done during at place lunch. Senior MGAs were honored at the stage. Dr Talat Hussain, Dr Muhammad Yunus and Br Mustafa White shared some experiences and advice. All the resolutions were presented by the resolution committee. Most of the resolutions were related to various reforms in the elections process, therefore, they were sent to Shura with a suggestion to form an election reforms committee to create a proposal by August 2024 for presentation and approval by the MGAs. Sh Abdool Rehman Khan delivered a short khatirah on Sunday morning after Fajar and the meeting resumed right after breakfast. The heart of the healthy organizations is the accountability process that took place to give MGAs the opportunity to hold the Ameer, the Shura and individual MGAs accountable in front of all MGAs after following a prescribed process. The remaining short presentations were made before the end of the proposed time. Another pleasant feature of this meeting was the attendance of a good number of YM alumni and short spiritual reminders and some practical advice from three of them on different topics. Ameer delivered a short speech emphasizing on the need to engage families into Islamic work, fighting immorality and keeping up with the value of brotherhood. He closed the meeting with Dua. Lunch was served and MGAs started to leave after brief socialization with a aspiration to come back the following year.

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Actions to Take Beyond March 4 Gaza

Sender: American Muslim Task Force for Palestine Subject Line: Actions to Take Beyond March4Gaza Title: Voices United: Historic Protest in D.C. Calls for Ceasefire, Accountability, and Justice in Palestine On January 13th, 2024, over 400,000 protestors marched through the streets of Washington, D.C., to reiterate our demands of the Biden Administration and Congress to: Call for and facilitate immediate and permanent cease-fire in Gaza End unconditional U.S. funding of Israel’s genocide against Gaza and the occupation of Palestine Hold Israel accountable for war crimes committed against the Palestinian people and its continuous violations of international law. In partnership with the ANSWER coalition, the American Muslim Task Force for Palestine would like to thank all who joined us in the largest protest ever for Palestine in the U.S. Thank you to the over 350 organizations who endorsed and answered our call to March on Washington for Gaza. Despite the harsh winter, Americans came from over 35 states and 125+ cities to join their voices and demand the Biden administration listen to the people’s will. This historic march on Martin Luther King Jr. weekend was a monumental moment for the movement for Palestine and a moment of reckoning for the Biden administration. Our collective demands and message were clear: We need an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to the US aid for Israel, and for Israel to be held accountable for their violations of both US and international human rights. With over 26,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza by Israel, 60k+ injured, and over 1.9 million internally displaced, we need to maintain the momentum and continue acting to save lives. U.S. complicity in this genocide and occupation of Palestine must come to an immediate end. The American movement for a just U.S. foreign policy and the liberation of the Palestinian people is a multiracial, multifaith, and multigenerational movement. Our efforts will, God willing, continue until we see a free Palestine. We urge those who joined us to continue mobilizing and organizing. We invite you to take these next three steps. Organize locally for a ceasefire resolution Call and email your Members of Congress until there is a ceasefire Donate to the cause The American Muslim Task Force for Palestine is deeply grateful for your commitment to justice. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” While we pray for our Palestinian brothers and sisters, we will also not relent in our efforts to demand justice and the liberation of all of Palestine. Signed, American Muslim Task Force for Palestine ————- The American Muslim Task Force on Palestine includes American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), Muslim American Society (MAS), Muslim Student Association-National (MSA), Muslim Legal Fund of America (MLFA), Muslim Ummah of North America (MUNA), and Young Muslims (YM).

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ICNA condemns the killing of a six-year old Muslim boy in a hate crime

ICNA strongly condemns the killing of six-year old Wadea Al-Fayoume and the stabbing of his mother Hannan Shahin by their landlord, for no reason but pure hate, all because of their Palestinian background. For the past week or so we have found ourselves without words to see a genocide unfolding right before our eyes. What words can adequately express the pain and suffering to see a whole nation being forced into starvation and with constant bombing? And now right here at home in the USA, our Muslim community has become the target of hatred and violence…a little innocent child and his helpless mother! ICNA firmly states that this crime is not an isolated one. As the criminal carried out this heinous crime, he shouted “You Muslims must die!”? Often times crimes of such nature are fueled by some our own leaders and media outlets who use dehumanizing language such as calling Palestinians human animals; an ideology that has long been spread by haters of Islam and Muslims. We must unite to reform those in our society that allow hateful propaganda to inspire the murder of others as in this case an innocent child. We call on our lawmakers to stop spewing misleading information of what is going on in Gaza. We also call on them to condemn the hate that is spreading here in our country. We must ensure that the ideology of hate must fail to divide us. May this little innocent child leave this world in the most dignified way as a little Shaheed; a martyr. We pray to Allah SWT for the speedy recovery of sister Hannan Shahin and the strength for her to move on. May Allah SWT protect all!

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ICNA Declares Friday, October 13, 2023, As a Day of Du’a.

We call upon Khateebs, community Leaders and Politicians in the US to educate the community and all Americans about the dire humanitarian situation in Palestine and to pray for their safety, freedom, and well-being of all those including innocent civilians, women and children. Here are some facts and the talking points to be discussed: 1. Netanyahu’s far-right government intensified Israel’s violent repression upon Palestinians since taking power earlier this year. Defense Minister of Israel called Palestinian as “animals”, denying them any food, electricity and water • Before the latest surge in violence, Israeli soldiers had already killed more than 250 Palestinians, including at least 47 children, in the occupied West Bank only in 2023, more than any year since the Second Intifada, or uprising, against Israel’s occupation in the early 2000s. • Extremist Israeli settlers had also ramped up their attacks on Palestinians to push them off their land earlier this year. In August 2023, the UN warned of a dramatic increase in settler violence, with nearly 600 attacks recorded in the first six months of JUST THIS year, averaging 99 incidents each month. • Israeli extremists have also increased their provocations in and around the Noble Sanctuary Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem, the third holiest site in Islam, which they wish to destroy. 2. Gaza has been under brutal Israeli military occupation for more than 50 years. • Under international law, Gaza remains under Israeli military occupation, despite Israel’s withdrawal of settlers and soldiers from the interior of Gaza in 2005, it continues to control virtually all entry and exit, as well as Gaza’s airspace and coastline. 3. Israel has imposed a ruthless, illegal siege and naval blockade on Gaza for more than 15 years. The former British Prime Minister, David Cameron, said, “People in Gaza are living under constant attacks and pressure in an open-air prison,”. • More than 2.3 million Palestinians are in Gaza, trapped under Israel’s draconian siege and naval blockade, unable to travel to get medical treatment, go to school, or visit family and friends, deprived of basic needs and supplies. Gaza’s economy has been devastated by the siege and blockade, and by repeated Israeli military assaults that have destroyed much of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure. The siege and blockade have been repeatedly condemned by the UN and human rights organizations as a form of collective punishment and illegal. 4. Most Palestinians in Gaza are refugees, expelled from what became southern Israel in 1948. • Two-thirds of Palestinians in Gaza are refugees who were expelled from their homes during Israel’s establishment in 1948, denied their internationally recognized legal right to return simply because they aren’t Jewish. 5. The source of the problem is Israel’s brutal military occupation and apartheid system that was established in 1948. • In the words of Amnesty International: “Israel has established and maintained an institutionalized regime of oppression and domination of the Palestinian population for the benefit of Jewish Israelis – a system of apartheid – wherever it has exercised control over Palestinians’ lives since 1948.” The only way to end the violence is to end Israel’s occupation and apartheid system. • Israel ‘can no longer control its own fate’ after stunning Palestinian attack Veteran Israeli analyst Meron Rapoport told MEE that the Israeli military and intelligence is at a new low, and it may prove terminal for Netanyahu and his settler government. • Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, said on Saturday that the Palestinian people have the right to defend themselves against the “Israeli crimes and violations in Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and the Palestinian Territories”. 6. American Muslims urge all Muslim countries and their leadership, particularly those who are eager to build their relationships with the Zionist regime, to reconsider their plans and not compromise on the just cause of the oppressed Palestinians. 7- We call upon the people of conscience to recognize the hypocritical stances of many nations when it comes to the human rights violations against the Palestinian people, and to condemn these senseless attacks. 8- Express support and the need for an immediate ceasefire. Demand the United States to reassert its leadership role as a negotiator in pursuit of a lasting peace. This entails addressing the root causes of violence, terminating Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, and ending the Israeli government’s apartheid policies. Finally – we ask Allah SWT for His help, guidance and support. May He free the oppressed people around the world, including people of Palestine, and prevent the oppression of the oppressors. Ameen.  Events to Remember: American Muslims for Palestine and AJP Action are holding an advocacy day on Capitol Hill. It will take place in Washington DC on October 23rd and 24th to lobby congressional representatives in holding Israel accountable for its crimes, to recognize it as an occupying apartheid state, and to advocate for Palestinians. Please fill out and share widely in your networks it’s important that our elected representatives’ offices get flooded by their constituents’ messages – takes 30 secs and simple https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Faction.cair.com%2Fa%2Fgazaunderattack&data=05%7C01%7C%7C36882fe76db545d90c9708dbcae736a9%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638326866633394624%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=vRfR3Kb6FSMWx5dIvEyV9fUIDRhhpmtKrlzVvkJsiSw%3D&reserved=0 AMP will also be holding a Day of Action and rally on Saturday, October 14th, at 1 p.m. in front of the White House. For updated information, please visit the AMP website or follow their social media pages. As much as it is necessary to raise our voices, it is also necessary to donate. Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) www.hhrd.org is collecting money to donate food and supplies to the Palestinian people. This is a time of dire need for our brothers and sisters, who are not able to access even basic necessities for survival and are under blockade by their occupiers. Donate to our campaigns through HHRD here

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