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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.

Juneteenth is a federal holiday, starting in 2021 when President Biden signed the holiday into federal law. Juneteenth celebrates the day that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were freed, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth represents freedom, celebration, and also the racist history and present of the US. Juneteenth further shakes the normalized history that people hold – that all enslaved people were freed on the day the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.  In order for the Emancipation Proclamation to be enforced, Union troops marched around the country to read the order and free enslaved peoples. The National Museum of African American History and Culture says, “On “Freedom’s Eve,” or the eve of January 1, 1863, the first Watch Night services took place. On that night, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in churches and private homes all across the country awaiting news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At the stroke of midnight, prayers were answered as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free. Union soldiers, many of whom were black, marched onto plantations and across cities in the south reading small copies of the Emancipation Proclamation spreading the news of freedom in Confederate States. Only through the Thirteenth Amendment did emancipation end slavery throughout the United States.” In Texas, enslaved people were not free until June 19, 1865, when around 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas. The army announced that over 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free by executive decree. Juneteenth is regarded as the nation’s second independence day, where the enforcement of the decree to free all enslaved peoples was enforced and ratified.  Not all states in the US celebrate Juneteenth or recognize the holiday. Widely regarded as a celebration to the end of slavery, around 24 states and DC legally recognize Juneteenth as a public holiday.  Connecticut state senator Rob Sampson, who voted no to making Juneteenth a state holiday, said, “Juneteenth is very important to me. Abraham Lincoln is the reason I became a Republican,” but went on to say that the extra holiday is a “reach for us.”  For non-Black people, Juneteenth should be a day of remembrance and reflection. Read about the history of slavery in the US, read about racism, read about emancipation, and the struggles that freed people faced after emancipation. Do not treat Juneteenth as “another day off,” but respectfully commemorate the day. Access the resource list found on the National Museum for African American History and Culture to learn more about Juneteenth, and find ways that you can respectfully observe this federal holiday.

As-salāmu ʿAlaykum, All praises are due to Allah ﷻ alone. As the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah graces us once again, we extend our warmest greetings to you and your families. May the mercy, blessings, and guidance of Allah (SWT) be with you always. In this special edition of our newsletter, we would like to congratulate you on the auspicious occasion of the Day of Arafah and Eid-ul-Adha. These are moments of immense significance and reflection in the Islamic calendar, and we invite you to celebrate them with renewed devotion and gratitude. The Day of Arafah, which falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is a day of unparalleled importance. It is a time when millions of pilgrims from around the world gather on the plains of Arafah, seeking forgiveness, supplicating to Allah (SWT), and engaging in acts of worship. Though many of us may not be physically present there, we can still reap the blessings of this day by engaging in sincere acts of worship, fasting, and heartfelt prayers. Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, follows the Day of Arafah and marks the conclusion of Hajj. It commemorates the unparalleled faith and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS). This joyous occasion reminds us of the importance of selflessness, obedience to Allah’s commandments, and caring for those in need. Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the values of sacrifice and compassion and extend our support and love to those less fortunate in our communities. ICNA is proud to be part of your journey as we collectively strive to strengthen our faith and foster unity within the Ummah. We encourage you to participate in our local events, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives, where you can engage with fellow Muslims and contribute to the greater good. During this blessed time, let us remember the importance of unity and brotherhood. Reach out to your neighbors, friends, and family members, irrespective of their backgrounds, and extend warm wishes of love and peace. Let us build bridges of understanding, compassion, and cooperation within our diverse society. We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated volunteers, donors, and supporters who have consistently stood by us in our endeavors to serve the community. Your unwavering commitment and generosity have made a significant impact in the lives of many, and we pray that Allah (SWT) rewards you abundantly for your efforts. In light of the current events, we ask for your special prayers for the people of Gaza. May Allah (SWT) bring them peace, safety, and relief in these challenging times. May this Day of Arafah and Eid-ul-Adha bring you and your loved ones immense joy, peace, and blessings. May your sacrifices and prayers be accepted, and may your homes be filled with love and harmony. Eid Mubarak! JazakAllah khayr, Adnan Tafsir Secretary General Islamic Circle of North America – ICNA

Islamic Circle of North America Anticipates Over 30,000 Attendees at its 49th Annual Convention The Islamic Circle of North America is pleased to host its 49th annual convention at the Baltimore Convention Center Focused New York, May 23rd– Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) will host its annual convention centered around the theme of unshakable faith: trusting the will of God on May 25th-27th. The event is expected to host more than 30,000 attendees and will feature a diverse group of speakers, workshops, and activities aimed at promoting unity and community building. The convention is open to all people and families who seek to strengthen their understanding and connection to the Islamic faith. Speakers and workshops will cover a range of topics, including but not limited to: Islamic principles, family dynamics, youth development, social justice, and interfaith relations. At the same time, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with scholars, activists, and leaders who are experts in these areas. The ICNA Convention brings a surge of visitors to Baltimore, leading to increased hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and overall spending in the city. This influx of attendees significantly benefits the tourism industry, with local hotels experiencing higher occupancy rates during the convention period. In addition, the increased foot traffic in restaurants, cafes, and eateries boosts revenue for local businesses and stimulates economic activity. Furthermore, the ICNA Convention promotes community engagement and philanthropy. Attendees participate in various community service initiatives and charitable activities, contributing to local charities and nonprofit organizations. This not only strengthens Baltimore’s social fabric but also supports its economic well-being. “ICNA is thrilled to host this convention, an event that we have worked hard to make accessible and inclusive to everyone who wants to learn and grow in their faith,” said ICNA President Dr. Mohsin Ansari. “We are particularly proud of this year’s theme of unshakable faith and trusting the will of God. With the ongoing tragedy in Gaza weighing heavily on global consciousness, now more than ever, it’s imperative for those with faith to stand steadfast in their beliefs as we persevere in the pursuit of justice.” Registration for the convention is open and can be completed through ICNA’s website. The organization has put measures in place to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees. ICNA recently released a statement in support of the student protest taking place across College campuses across the United States, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza. About ICNA Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and the largest Muslim organization in the United States, established in the 1960s. ICNA is an umbrella organization for multiple projects, programs, and activities that strive to help Muslims build their character to bring about a society rooted in morality and God-consciousness. Some of ICNA’s current projects include: ICNA Relief, Why Islam, Gain Peace, Helping Hands, MCNA, Young Muslims, ICSJ, and Islamic Learning Foundation Press Contact: Moviz Siddiquipress@icna.org

Official Statement: ICNA requests all the people/organizations of conscience to please support and endorse this statement in support of people of Gaza and students protesting. https://forms.gle/JPupGWxh33p8TyPj7 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Rba9IdDOi8In the name of God, the Most Beneficent and the Most Merciful History has shown that students have always played a major role in the pursuit of justice. By raising their voices, standing firm, and organizing, there has always been a resilient student presence demanding human rights and promoting peace across the world. This past week, we have witnessed a historical movement across institutions of higher learning throughout the United States. This student-led movement demanding the end of the genocide in Gaza began in Columbia University in New York, and has now spread not only throughout campuses in the US, but also to institutions in Europe. The images of courage, bravery and resilience of these students has given a renewed hope to all people of conscience who yearn to see justice prevail. The hallmark of this movement are its uncompromising call towards justice, its diversity and its inclusive nature, where students of different backgrounds, colors and creeds have come together to support the oppressed people of Palestine. Unfortunately, universities across the United States denied these students’ constitutional right to free speech. Students at Columbia University have been disciplined with suspensions and over 100 have been arrested on campus while engaging in peaceful protests. Likewise, over 80 students have been arrested during their demonstration at Washington University in St. Louis and others. In total, more than 850 students have been arrested throughout the country while advocating for ending the genocide against the Palestinians. Well over 34,000 Palestinian civilians have been killed by the state of Israel since 10/7, 65% of the victims are either children or women. On average, Netanyahu’s government has dropped 21 bombs every hour resulting in the complete destruction of all major hospitals, educational institutions and places of worship. As the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, faces potential arrest from the International Court of Justice in relation to war crimes, the United States government has shamefully vetoed every UN resolution to stop the genocide in Gaza. At the same time, heavy handed actions by Universities across the board raises serious concerns about the infringement of students’ First Amendment rights. The United States Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech, which includes the right to peacefully assemble and protest. By punishing students for exercising these fundamental rights, Columbia University and others are setting a dangerous precedent that undermines the very principles of democracy and academic freedom upon which these universities were founded. The actions of these universities have created a pressure point where lawful protests are being penalized with the slew of recent suspensions and arrests. Restricting pro-Palestine voices under the guise of curbing anti-semitism is a clear indicator of the conflation of criticisms of the state of Israel and the political ideology of Zionism. We reiterate that Anti-Jewish hate and violence is inexcusable. However, the conflation of criticism of a political entity and ideology with a world religion, limits the rights of that group to a particular segment while diminishing the voices of the remainder. The casualty here is freedom of speech and ultimately America’s purported values. It is clear that foreign interests are not only dominating Congress but are now setting their sights on college campuses. It is imperative to recognize that universities play a crucial role as bastions of free expression and intellectual inquiry. They should serve as environments where individuals are encouraged to challenge prevailing ideas, engage in meaningful dialogue, and advocate for change. Suppressing dissenting voices only stifles innovation and perpetuates an environment of conformity. By suspending students for participating in peaceful protests, Columbia and other Universities are failing in their duty to protect and promote the rights of their students. Members of ICNA, along with other USCMO volunteers, met with lawmakers and their staff on the 29th and 30th of April on our National “Day on the Hill”. ICNA reiterated its resolve in always supporting the right of self-determination of the Palestinian people. We also reaffirmed our support for their liberation, and a dignified life for all human beings. As an organization, we are proud to stand for the right of free speech for our brave student leaders as they tackle the issue of injustice. We request that people of conscience, including individuals and organizations, to support and endorse this statement and the demands presented by Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA). In light of these facts, ICNA demands: 1) The University administration of Columbia University, and all other universities, to immediately reinstate suspended students who peacefully protested and reaffirm its commitment to upholding the principles of free speech and academic freedom. 2) University Administrations should listen to the demands of the students and do not suppress the rights of free speech. 3) Law enforcement agencies withdraw all the charges against peaceful protestors.For media inquiries or further information, please contact: media.engagement@icna.orgICNA President, Dr. Mohsin Ansari. 

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