“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 Stands in Solidarity with Student Encampment for Palestinian Liberation

[WARREN, MI] – The Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) proudly announces its unwavering support for the courageous students of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, who have taken a stand for justice and the liberation of the Palestinian people through their inspiring encampment.

On Sunday, May 5th, approximately 20 individuals from the IONA Masjid and Learning Center, joined together in a show of solidarity with the students’ encampment at the University of Michigan.

Carpooling to the campus, they offered their support to the students who are protesting against the ongoing genocide in Gaza and advocating for a free Palestine.

The student-led encampment, initiated by the TAHRIR Coalition on April 22nd, has drawn inspiration from the call of

the Palestinian people for action. Organized in collaboration with the National Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace, the encampment stands as a symbol of resistance against oppression and injustice.

According to the organizers, the demands of the encampment include:

  1. A permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
  2. An end to military assistance for Israel.
  3. University divestment from companies profiting from the war.
  4. Amnesty for students and faculty disciplined for protesting.

Imam Elturk and organizer Sr. Farah Khalil of IONA expressed their support directly to the encampment’s organizers, offering assistance in the form of food, water, donations, and Imam Elturk’s time for teach- ins.

“The students’ encampment represents a beacon of hope and resilience for the Palestinians and all people of conscience,” said Imam Elturk. “It is a symbol of courage and determination. We are indebted to them and deserve our support.”

Imam Elturk emphasized the duty of believers to stand up for justice and righteousness, supporting those who strive for truth and fairness.

The student’s encampment serves as a testament to the power of unity and collective action, as they stand shoulder to shoulder in pursuit of a better future for the Palestinian people.

For more information on IONA’s support for the student encampment, please contact IONA outreach at Detroitoutreach@ionaonline.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.

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