“Indeed, God commands justice, doing good to others, as well as courtesy to close relatives. He forbids indecency, wickedness, and aggression. He instructs you so perhaps you will be mindful.” (16:90 )            “For every day on which the sun rises, there is a (reward from God) for the one who establishes justice among people.” (al-Bukhari)            “And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way, so that [with your lives] you may bear witness to the truth before all humankind. . .” (2:143)            “Dispensers of justice will be seated on pulpits of light beside God.” (Muslim)            “Do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set in order. And call upon Him with hope and fear. Indeed, Allah’s mercy is always close to the good-doers.” (7:56)           “Even an ant in its hole and fish (in the depth of water) invoke blessings on someone who teaches people goodness.” (al-Tirmidhi)            “O believers! Remain conscious of God, and be with those who are truthful in word and deed.” (9:119)           “God does not judge you according to your bodies and appearances, but He looks into your hearts and observes your deeds.” (Muslim)            “The parable of those who spend their possessions for the sake of God is that of a grain out of which grow seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains: for God grants manifold increase unto whom He wills; and God is infinite, all-knowing.” (2:261)           “Charity does not diminish wealth.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “Let there be a group among you who call ˹others˺ to goodness, encourage what is good, and forbid what is evil-it is they who will be successful.” (3:104)           “Avoid cruelty and injustice...and guard yourselves against miserliness, for this has ruined nations who lived before you.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “Do not forget to show kindness to each other. Surely God observes your actions.” (2:237)           “(Allah) has revealed to me that you should adopt humility so that no one oppresses another.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “It is We who sent down this Reminder (al-Quran) and it is We who shall preserve it.” (15:9)           “The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it (to others).” (al-Bukhari)            “So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.” (2:152)           “There are two blessings that many people lose -- health and free time for doing good.” (al-Bukhari)            “Say: 'O My servants who have transgressed against your own souls, do not despair of God's mercy, for God forgives all sins. It is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.'“(39:53)           “Happy is the man who avoids dissension, but how fine is the man who is afflicted and shows endurance.” (Abu Dawud)            “And you love wealth with immense love.” (89:20)           “Being rich does not mean having a great amount of property, but (it) is being content (with what one has).” (al-Bukhari)            “Every soul is held in pledge for its deeds.” (74:38)           “Make things easy and convenient and don't make them harsh and difficult. Give cheer and glad tidings and do not create hatred.” (al-Bukhari & Muslim)           

IONA, ICNA & MAS Explore Approaches To Islamic Activism

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh,

On June 26 th , 2004 the Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) hosted its first annual convention at the Islamic Association of Greater Detroit. The convention featured Mustapha Elturk (Ameer of the Islamic Organization of North America) along with Dr. Talat Sultan (Ameer of the Islamic Circle of North America) and Dr. Souheil Ghannouchi (Former President of the Muslim American Society). The theme of the convention, “Is Islamic Activism a thing of the past?” focused on the current and future prospects for Islamic activism in North America.

The leaders of the three leading Islamic activist organizations in the country outlined their respective ideologies and methodologies for Islamic work in North America. A lively and respectful question and answer session provided greater insight into the similarities and differences between the three organizations. All speakers emphasized the need to develop a culture of Islamic activism in the Muslim community – a culture steeped in righteousness and embedded with humble confidence in the relevance of Islam to the entire world.

The leadership recognized the valuable and complimentary role each organization has in promoting Islamic activism in North America, and stressed that greater cooperation was needed. While discussing differences, the speakers emphasized the overwhelming unity of purpose and dismissed any notion that the organizations divided the Muslim community in North America. Rather, it was agreed that while the various Islamic organizations were pursuing different strategies, these efforts were mutually reinforcing.

May Allah (SWT) bless the Muslims in North America with a strong culture of Islamic activism, and may He guide the leadership of this ummah to lead Muslims to success in this world and the Hereafter, and protection from the Hellfire.

IONA, 28630 Ryan Rd., Warren, MI 48092 | Tel: 586-558-6900 | E-mail: center@iononline.org

End

IONA’s mission is to transform its members and help transform the surrounding communities to righteous, God-fearing people, who collectively strive for the highest moral standard and constantly seek forgiveness from our Creator to earn His pleasure. We seek His compassion and mercy in this life and in the hereafter. We rejuvenate our soul through internal struggle and spiritual exercise in worship of our creator God. The strength of our belief in God gives us the courage to establish good and forbid evil, thus promoting a system of justice for all mankind.

JOIN IONA