Today is the second day of Ramadan. It’s hard to feel joyous this Ramadan with all that is happening in this world especially while such a magnitude of human suffering is being displayed right before our eyes on our phones. Before social media, peoples’ suffering had a limited reach globally. Now, we all have a front row seat, so do not sit idle.
As an American, it is our civic duty to utilize the rights that the people before us fought so hard for. As Americans, we have the power to effectuate change through our freedom of assembly (protests), our freedom of speech (including social media), and freedom of petition to our government for a redress of grievances. So, call your representatives and let them know your grievances - especially those of which include injustices that our government is supporting with our taxpayer dollars. We have a duty to educate ourselves and others about how our taxpayer dollars are being used to sustain oppression. Keep sharing, liking, saving, commenting on every post of injustice you see in this world to boost them on the algorithm and continue the momentum of this freedom movement.
As a Muslim, Islam does not encourage us to be mere bystanders to any form of injustice; we are morally obliged to do what we can within our power to eradicate oppression without ourselves being the oppressor.
“O Believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for God even if it is against yourselves, your parents or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor:, God is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate from justice. If you distort the testimony (evidence) or refuse to give it, then know that God is certainly All-Aware of what you do.” - Quran Translation 4:135
Islam teaches that even in the midst of great crisis, society must still function. So enjoy this Ramadan to its fullest but, while we celebrate in joyous moments do not forget the people of Palestine, Sudan, Congo, Uyghurs, Rohingya, USA Natives and any other oppressed people in this world in our joy. May Allah (God) protect everyone and bring peace to all inshAllah (God Willing).
With peace and love,
Urooj, owner of Kahani
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