Originally published in the Northwest Herald The democratic process is an amazing process, one that is able to promote its first African American president. As I congratulate President Barack Obama on his re-election and wish him success, I also encourage him to keep justice in mind while in office, both here and abroad. This is not a liberty all nations afford their citizens. In Pakistan, for...
Originally published in NY Daily News Johnson City, N.Y.: Islam has taught racial equality since the very beginning. Prophet Muhammed was a stout supporter of equality and never treated anyone from another race, religion or gender unequally. The prophet allowed the very first ahzan (call to prayers) to be done by Bilal, an African. Islam fosters love, union and tolerance for people who are...
Originally published in Post-Crescent Media By winning another term, President Barack Obama must uphold the responsibility to further the democratic process, which Islam supports. As a Muslim American, I believe that justice is best served when we use democracy. Many countries exist where people want democracy but can’t enjoy it because of a lack of justice. For example, in Pakistan, the...
Originally published in Dallas News Mothers of Sandy Hook victims are rightfully protesting today, wearing stickers reading “We Demand Change Now” outside the legislative hearing. It is our moral obligation to assist them. As a Muslim, I’ve witnessed parents of third world countries in the Middle East who grieve helplessly over the killings of their innocent children, knowing that their powerless...
Originally published in statesman.com When it comes to gun laws, why do the laws of our constitution supersede the laws of humanity? As an American, I love the freedom and democracy of this great country, but as an American, I too, like many, take for granted the sovereignty this country gives us. Mothers of Sandy Hook victims are rightfully protesting today, wearing stickers reading: “We Demand...
Originally Published in the Appleton Post Crescent Now the second term has officially begun for President Obama and I am excited to see the results of ‘Change’ and ‘Hope.’ I wished for a democratic candidate to win, and more importantly I want a peaceful country. As a Muslim-American we have a firm belief on justice and we want it in everything we do. We do not want to see hunger, poverty...
Originally published in The Daily Herald On Jan. 21, I celebrated one of the most important aspects of being free. Regardless of one’s political affiliation, the pride and honor we feel in being free to choose our nation’s leader is humbling. Considering in many parts of the world individuals do not have a choice I’m thankful I do. As a Muslim, I will pray for my country and its...
Originally published in The Star Local Media Guns don’t kill people, people kill people – but is this really an excuse for the heinous acts that strip away innocent lives year after year? The vast majority of us are law-abiding, responsible gun owners. However, there will always be a select few that jeopardize our rights. It is an unfair truth in life. Churches are being desecrated, school...
Originally published in TribStar Congratulations to President Obama for winning the election. As a Muslim, Islam, justice and peace are synonymous. Justice and peace are the building blocks for any successful society. A society in which free thought is hindered goes against the principles of Islam and democracy. The Qur’an says, “There is no compulsion in religion.” 2:256. Democracy, without...
As we look back at 2012, the Sandy Hook massacre was a major shock. But was it a complete surprise? Originally published in Go Erie As a society, we need to examine the impact of some popular video games that promote such violence. I was troubled to find one such game named “Bully.” The player assumes the character of a 15-year-old boy who was expelled from every school he has...