The Muslim Link - December 19, 2014

Muharram| 27 Safar , 1435 | Rabi Al-Awaal |Rabi Al-Thani| Jumada Al-Awwal| Jumada Al-Akhir|Rajab | Shaban | Ramadan |Shawwal|Thul-Qedah|30 Thul-Hijjah

running for the hills

Rocky Mountain Ummah

GOT DIABETES? >> PG 8

>> PG 21

2 8 M u h a r r a m - 2 s a fa r 1 4 3 6 A . H .

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

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“We Buried the Qur’an in Our Backyard” Uyghur Activist Curates Forgotten History of East Turkistan

By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Reporter

>> history Pg 12

Farouq Alzouman, a Saudi mountaineer

Muslims w/ Disabilities Isolated In Muslim Community | pg 5

Environmental Movement Is Overwhelmingly White | pg 6 PGMA Holds Domestic Abuse, Violence Forum | pg 10 Muslim Teen Killed, Run Over By Hate Filled Driver| pg 22 Northern Virginia resident Anwar Yusuf Turani, founder of the East Turkistan Freedom Center, shows the historical records he keeps of Uyghur Muslim leaders. Photo by Muslim Link.

1,500 Attendees Show Mountain of Support for Dar-us-Salaam With the promise of a story that would provide plenty of cliff hangers, a dinner with all the trimmings, and the opportunity to help a noble cause, Muslims from around the Washington-Baltimore metro area came out for Dar-us-Salaam's annual dinner, this year called "Perseverance: Reaching New Heights Together" and held on December 14, 2014.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Undocumented Indo-Paks Stay in the Shadows | pg 6

“We are an occupied territory. We know the plights of our Muslim brothers and sisters in Palestine, Kashmir, but why doesn’t the Muslim world know about our struggle?” asks Anwar Yusuf Turani, founder of the East Turkistan Freedom Center, and an Uyghur diaspora leader from East Turkistan. Uyghurs are a Turkic people by race and language, Muslim by religion.

“There are 35 million of us,” he says, some in exile, others in the land of what is known to the world as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. This

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US Media Focusses On Torture, Torturers, But Not Victims | pg 23

who reached the top of Mount Everest and became the first person to give the athan and hold the Qur'an from the highest point on Earth, recounted his climb -- complete with many photos -- and the lessons he learned to a gasping audience.

Dr. Altaf Husain helped the community raise over $200,000 to continue the work of Dar-us-Salaam, which marked its 20th anniversary this academic year.

Fashion Giant Says Muslims Need to Explain Beliefs for Job | pg 22

ISLAM: How the Prophet Loved, Cherished Children | pg 24 Dar-us-Salaam presented Farouq Alzouman with the "Bilal Ibn Rabah Inspiration Award" for giving the athan on the top of Mount Everest.

Photo courtesy of Dar-us-Salaam.

ISLAM: Combating Negative Thinking | pg 25 Can America Ignore Its Torturous Past and Present? | pg 27

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Community News Many Muslims with Disabilities Feel Isolated In Muslim Community and community support they need, says Siddiqi. EnabledMuslim seeks to address this through its online support network and a growing resource database with Islamic scholarly perspectives on disability, tips on how to create welcoming and inclusive Muslim community settings, and more.

By Contributing Writers Last September saw the launch of two initiatives for Muslims with special needs. This year a special session was held at the ISNA 2014 convention with panelists Dilshad D. Ali, an autism mom from Richmond, DMV native Nashiru Abdulaib of Global Deaf Muslims, Sh Zaynab Ansari, and Sh Omar Suleiman, who has just launched MUHSEN which means "One who shows excellence and compassion" and stands for Muslims United for Handicap & Special Education Needs. The panel was moderated

by Marylander Maggie Siddiqi, the program director of EnabledMuslim. org—an online network for spiritual and community support for Muslims living with disabilities and for their loved ones, a project of American Muslim Health Professionals (AMHP).

Many Muslims with disabilities report feeling isolated and unsupported in American Muslim community settings according to a survey taken

by EnabledMuslims. 160 people with disabilities or their loved ones responded to the survey. “The most intriguing point

Although there are likely over 600,000 Muslims living with disabilities in the US alone, there is currently no dedicated effort to accommodate their needs in masajid. of the survey was the sheer diversity of disabilities that people experience, from intellectual disabilities, arthritis, gastro diseases to depression,” shared Siddiqi in an interview with the Muslim Link.

Although there are likely over 600,000 Muslims living with disabilities in the US alone, there is currently no dedicated effort to provide them with the spiritual

Ali, who is also a journalist and blogs about her family’s special needs journey on Muslimah Next Door, writes about her involvement in EnabledMuslim.

“Through diligence, never-ending detective work and sheer willpower, I have cobbled together the best answers I can for my child and continue to try and forge the most respectful, dignified and inclusive path for him in school and in the community. It’s taken us 14 long, long years to get to where we are, and we are still just getting started, learning more every day of what’s out there. I don’t want it to be so hard for others. [When]hen you have a child or family member with a disability, of course you will become their strongest advocate.”

>> isolated Pg 17

Deaf Muslims Appeal to Area Muslims for Funding Sign Language Qur’an

By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Almost four years ago a group of Deaf Muslims and supporters gathered in Herndon, VA to raise funds for a video translation of the Quran in American Sign Language.

After six months of contract work and 14 chapters of the Quran completed, Global Deaf Muslims (GDM) are canvassing local masajid in order to raise the money to translate the rest of the Quran into ASL. Quran in ASLTeam currently has 9 members: Zoh Qureshi is the team Leader

and Deaf Signer, Dr Daoud Nassimi, leads the scholars, and Deaf Signer Maher Eshgi helps narrate the surahs.

The Muslim Link met with GDM leaders at the Prince George’s Muslim Association (PGMA) after Jummah. A slick video presentation with two young men signing the surahs that have been translated greets worshipers as they filed into the center. Volunteer Aneesa Salaam hands out pamphlets and guides the women towards the GDM table.

>> QUR'an Pg 9

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COMMUNITY NEWS

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

While Latinos Take to the Streets, Undocumented Indo-Paks Stay in the Shadows

By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Reporter Hina Naveed is a DREAMer—an unauthorized youth who was brought into the country as a child. For most of her life in the United States she has been an undocumented immigrant, one of the 11 million in the nation. Her family came to the U.S. from Pakistan, legally, on a tourist visa in 2001. 10-year-old Naveed accompanied them on this life changing trip to seek treatment for her sister’s brain condition. Doctors had told the family that she would receive the best care in the U.S. and Boston Children’s Hospital became their medical home until their visa expired.

When the family’s attorney misfiled their immigration papers and they were ordered to leave the country within 30 days, Naveed’s father made the difficult decision to overstay their visa to continue her sister’s treatment. “Because of that decision, my sister is still alive today—13 years longer than her doctors expected,” says Naveed.

Her family bought a business in New

Mistrust of authorities and fear of deportation also stops many from talking about their status or applying for status change.

York and moved there, silently building a life in the shadows. Unable to even get a driver’s license, Naveed’s life was stuck in limbo. Despite being President of her high school’s National Honor Society, her dreams of going to medical school were

hinged on an unattainable social security number.

Naveed talks about the stigma of being undocumented, especially in the South Asian community. She didn’t come

out about her immigration status— it would label her family in the Pakistani American community. Her brother was the first to start speaking up about their status, urging her to also shrug off the stigma and get involved in the movement for comprehensive immigration reform, especially the passage of the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. The DREAM Act is a bipartisan legislation introduced in 2001‒ pioneered by Sen. Orin Hatch [R-UT] and Sen. Richard Durbin [D-IL]. If passed

by Congress, it would give qualifying undocumented youth a six year long conditional path to citizenship, provided they complete a college degree or serve for two years in the military.

“My father has always been very open with us about our undocumented status.

He explained that we had to choose whether to leave the U.S., interrupting my sister’s treatment and risking her life, or stay behind and face the consequences,” says Naveed, who spent her teen years in angst about her immigration status... >> shadows Pg 18

“Green Insider’s Club” Is Overwhelming White C o a l i t i o n S e e k s D i v e r s i t y I n E n v i ro n m e n t a l M o v e m e n t

By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Reporter Robert Raben, a powerful lobbyist from the Capitol, thought he was imagining the phenomena when he attended an esteemed environmental movement gala and found himself surveying a room full of what he calls the overwhelming white “Green Insiders Club”. To see if his fears were real he found the initiative Green 2.0 and commissioned a report, "The State of Diversity in Environmental Organizations: Mainstream NGOs, Foundations & Government Agencies".

At the National Press Club in Washington D.C., on December 9, 2014, with the

....

People of color are nearly 40 percent of the U.S. population, and comprise 29 percent of the science and engineering workforce and they consistently vote for environmental issues at a higher rate than whites, yet they do not exceed 16 percent of the staff in any of the organizations surveyed. collaboration of New America Media, Green 2.0 launched a partnership with charity databank GuideStar and the D5 diversity coalition—to collect and

make transparent diversity data from NGOs and foundations. The Guidestar portal will provide a way through which the environmental community

can voluntarily provide data and hold themselves accountable to racial diversity standards—leading the way to help create plans to improve diversity.

Six of the nation’s top environmental organizations formally pledged to submit their diversity data to their GuideStar profiles by February 2015: Natural Resource Defense Council, Sierra Club, Resource Media, National Audubon Society, Earthjustice and the Environmental Defense Fund. Diversity is an organic value like integrity, not a February issue, noted Raben, announcing >> green Pg 19

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Dar Al-Hijrah Seeks Replacement South Africa’s Muslim Ambassador Imam for Sheikh Abdellah Marhoum Bids Farewell to DMV Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the United Sates, was bid farewell on Friday, the 12th of December 2014 at the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS), Sterling VA.

The Board of Directors of Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center accepted the resignation of Sheikh Abdellah Marhoum, submitted on November 26, 2014, from his position of Assistant Imam (Muqeem Shaa'ir), Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center. The imam ran the Quran Institute and led taraweeh at the center and was known for his powerful recitation of the Quran.

ADAMS, Islamic Society of North America , Masjid Muhammad, The Nation's Mosque, Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) and Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) co sponsored the event.

“We would like to express our sincere appreciation of Sheikh Marhoum for his work at Dar Al-Hijrah and his services to the Muslim community of Northern Virginia for the past two years,” stated the the BOD in a statement released. “We ask the Almighty to bless him and his family and guide us all to the best in serving His religion and His servants.”

Assistant Imam will lead prayers, teach Qur’an, and is responsible for ‘spiritually exercising the congregation.’

The Board and the Executive Director are initiating an immediate search to the position of Assistant Imam at DAH.The

Qualified applicants should send a resume and cover letter and sample recitation to executivedirector@daralhijrah.net

Amnbassador Rasool served as a Member of Parliament in South Africa’s National Assembly, Special Advisor to the State President and the Governor of the Western Cape Province.

He was also honored by the Washington’s National Press Club with an ‘unusual lifetime achievement award as he prepared to head home to Cape Town after four and half years in the American capital.’

R a s o o l reported that US-South Africa ties are in a sound, mutually beneficial shape, noting: the value of trade between the two countries, now at over $17 billion, is now higher that it had been before the 2008 financial crisis; the US was the South Africa’s largest source foreign direct investment with investments valued at over $50 billion; 600 US companies were active in South Africa, accounting for more that 150 000 jobs; Americans were traveling to South Africa in record numbers — over 300 000 in 2013; and American funding for HIV/ AIDS treatment and prevention remained generous at $400 million.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

Almost 10% of America Has Diabetes. Muslims Included.

ADAMS Helps with Diabetes Self-Management Workshop

As a discussion on food intake concludes with call to prayer, attendees encourage each other to track their blood sugar numbers; others ask Maureen Harris, the registered dietitian who co-teaches the session, to share a recipe of homemade bread which one attendee had plugged into myfitnesspal.com, giving her an exact calorie count.

By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Writer She never thought she would think consciously about food. Farzana Sikandar of Sterling, VA knows the meaning of beauty, she is an esthetician but reading labels and counting calories were not a part of her beauty regime. Last year she was diagnosed with diabetes.

Her son saw a flyer at the masjid for the fall/winter session of the Diabetes SelfManagement Program (DSMP) Workshop Series taught by Zubair Saeed, M.D., the Community Health Specialist at Fairfax County Health Department. He was the former Director of Health Programs at ADAMS. Sikandar signed up and started attending the weekly sessions at ADAMS. At the workshop, she made friends in a ‘relaxing atmosphere where everyone was comfortable sharing their problems,” says the bubbly Sikandar. They motivated each

other to go to the gym. “I changed the way I cook specially for myself,” she adds.

Seema Khan is a school teacher from Herndon, VA, she developed gestational diabetes in her third pregnancy. “I never took it seriously and now it is back,” she shares. Listening to the after Juma announcements, she heard about the workshop and decided to take her health

seriously. She brainstorms with other attendees on how to fit a walk into a busy day. A recent death in the family derailed her schedule and workouts but she hopes to get back on track. She has three sons in their 20s but they don't make good workout buddies. “I got a sister’s number tonight,” says Khan, as she makes plans to exercise with her.

“Does insulin make you gain weight?” inquires a woman with a Persian accent.

Another brings in a glossy book and quietly asks Harris if she should follow the fad diet it prescrbes. “Ask your doctor before starting [any] diet,” advises Harris.

The workshop teaches self care, promotes confidence, stress management and self love. “Be your own advocate,” says Harris and change your doctor if they do not listen. “We encourage [the attendees] to continue to meet even after the session >> Diabetes Pg 18

Local, National Relief Groups Partner with UNRWA for Gaza

By Muslim Link Staff

the Gaza strip. UNRWA runs 252 of the 600 primary and secondary schools in the Gaza strip. 90 schools were used as shelters for displaced Gazans during the recent conflict. Six of these shelters were bombed, killing several civilians and injuring many others.

On August 27, 2014, a coalition of five Muslim relief organisations signed a memorandum of support for the recovery of the Gaza Strip, contributing US$ 500,000 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

The contribution will be used for food assistance which is the greatest need in Gaza, non food items such as fuel and psychosocial support for the Gazans after the recent 50 day attack.

UNRWA officials say that donations cannot keep up with demand as 100,000 Gazans are still housed in UN shelters.

Import and export out of Gaza is at a virtual stand still.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2014, Helping Hands Relief and Development (HHRD) also presented UNRWA with $50,000 in assistance which was approved in August, 2014.

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UNRWA Representative Office: Islamic Help CEO Saif Ahmad, United Muslim Relief president and CEO Dr. Abed Ayoub, Baitulmaal Executive Director Suleiman Alghanem, Life for Relief and Development CEO Abdallah Boumediene, and Talat Shaikh from the Muslim Community and Education Centre.

According to UNRWA, HHRD has worked with UNRWA to fund scholarships in Gaza, Jordan and Lebanon since 2012 and funded a school feeding programme in Gaza for Palestine refugees in 2013. This recent contribution will support nearly 4,500 food rations for 642 internally displaced people in Gaza who are

currently living in UNRWA emergency shelters. The contribution will also cover important non-food items—particularly hygiene kits—for another 75 families, or approximately 375 people.

After a three week delay the school year started for 240,000 school children in

“In Gaza, conflict has profoundly affected the traditional learning environment and delayed the academic year for almost three weeks,” said UNRWA CommissionerGeneral Pierre Krähenbühl. "But after the traumatic 50 days of brutal conflict, of death, destruction and massive displacement, including to many of our schools, we are determined to give the children a sense of renewed hope and better prospects by opening the schools so soon again."

Children saw their loved ones die in front of their eyes during most of the conflict.

>> gaza Pg 16

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

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qur'an

>> continued from pg 5

The translation takes a long time and concentrated effort as the the material needs to be conveyed with thematic relevance, not just word to word translation. It took six months of competent scholars of both Arabic and English and the exegesis of the Quranic scripture collaborating with a team of American Sign Language interpreters as well as Deaf Muslim signers, taking Quran from the original source and bringing the interpretation directly into ASL. ASL is a visual language and written words are as hard for Deaf Muslims to understand as it is for us to try to understand Fus-ha. The language has its own syntax, grammar and vocabulary.

The words of the Quran have to be conceptual narrated to the audience.

GDM has released the 14 surahs and have received feedback from Deaf Muslims throughout the country.

Many Deaf are converting but we have no materials to give them to learn about Islam, signs Nashiru (Nash) Abdulai. He is often asked why can’t Deaf people just read the Quran. “I am educated,” signs Abdulai. It is difficult for Deaf person who is not educated in English or Arabic to understand, especially concepts such as Rahmah, as they struggle with English as their second language. “We have to explain it to them using our language and expressions,” he signs.

Syeda Chowdhury* from New York thinks it is wonderful. She signs with Aelaa ElSabbahy, the Programs and Admin Director in the hallways of PGMA. Her 30 year old son who lives in Maryland is deaf and he doesn't want to come to the masjid as there is no sign language translations or deaf access.

Exchanging emails with the GDM team, she couldn’t hold back the excitement at the thought of Islamic classes in sign language held on Saturdays.

“They need to understand the message of Islam, too,” says a woman who sends in cash through her daughter.

“If Christians can spread the Bible in ASL why can't we translate the Quran? Most Deaf people do not read or write. Many Deaf Muslims are leaving Islam because they do not understand the Quran,” signs

.ORG/connect /donate /volunteer /invite Abdulai. Watching the surahs released have brought hope and pleasure to the Deaf Muslims.

They need our support, says Wanda as she dropped some cash on her way out.

Without donations the project would stand still as it completely relies on them.

So many are trying to convert our deaf Muslim brothers and sisters to Christianity. “We believe in the Kalimah,” signs Abdulai, “I hope you will support us,” he signs as he rounded up his team

to plan a trip to MCC. Funds collected are used in for video distribution, video recording and production. A surah can be sponsored for $1,350, a hizb for $5,400 and a Juz for $10,800. The goal is to raise $350,000.

The date for the annual GDM Benefit Dinner is set for Saturday, January 31 from 6 to 10 pm in Herndon, VA (Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, VA 20170) on featuring Imam Siraj Wahhaj and Dr. Nassimi.

Send all checks (no cash) to this address: Global Deaf Muslim 5695 Columbia Pike Suite #201 Falls Church, VA 22041 For further information about the project contact the Director of Development of Global Deaf Muslim: donation@ globaldeafmuslim.org *name changed for privacy

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

10 | NATIONAL NEWS

Prince George’s County Muslim Council Holds Domestic Abuse and Violence Forum

By Endesha Raheem

Before introducing the panelist, Dr. Rashid provided an overview of some of the cultural factors involved in domestic abuse/violence. The need to look at the issue from an “authentic insider” perspective was stressed, a perspective that requires “reflection, critique, analysis and dialogue”, as opposed to continually examining the problem through a Western cultural lens. Dr. Rashid also compared the characteristics of the perpetrator of domestic abuse/violence to the historical colonizers in terms of practices such as the use of multiple forms of violence, control of economic resources and control of the female image.

“The true believers, both men and women, are protectors of one another. They enjoin what is good and forbid what is evil, and establish salah (prayer) and pay zakah (charity) and obey Allah and His Messenger. It is they whom Allah will have his mercy; Surely, Allah is Mighty and Wise”. Suratul At-Tawbah (The Repentance) 9, Ayah 71.

“And of His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may find comfort with them; and He placed love and mercy for each other in your hearts; surely there are signs in this for those who give thought”. Suratul ArRum (The Romans) 30, Ayah 21.

Domestic abuse/violence (also spousal abuse, battering, family violence and intimate partner violence) is a pattern of behavior which involves violence or other abuse by one person against another in a marriage or family. Domestic violence can take a number of forms including spiritual, physical, emotional, verbal, economic and sexual abuse, which can range from subtle, coercive forms to marital rape and to violent physical abuse that may result in disfigurement or death.

Although, men, women and children can be victims of domestic abuse/violence,

Bilal Ali, and Dr. Hakim Rashid listen to ​Imam Faisal Khan of ISWA discusses the need for all masajid to have domestic abuse support programs. Photo courtesy of PGCMC. 85% of victims in the United States are women. Unfortunately, the Muslim community is included in this statistic.

On Saturday, November 22, 2014, the Prince George’s County Muslim Council (PGCMC) Da’wah Committee sponsored a forum on Domestic Abuse/Violence at the Prince George’s Muslim Association (PGMA) in Lanham, Maryland. Brother Dr. Hakim Rashid, Professor of Human

Development at Howard University, the forum’s moderator introduced Brother Jameel Aalim-Johnson, President PGCMC, who provided a brief explanation of the organization and the purpose of our forum today. The forum focused on providing a broad understanding of issues related to domestic abuse/violence, and what we in Muslim communities can do to address this problem.

B r o t h e r D r. M a h e r K h a r m a , a n Occupational Therapist, provided both a definition and statistical overview of the problem of domestic abuse/violence.

Defining domestic abuse/violence as “a relationship between intimate partners in which one individual seeks to assert power and control over the other”, Dr. Kharma went on to discuss a survey of Muslim community leaders that concluded approximately 10% of Muslim women have experienced abuse. He also described types of abuse which included physical, verbal/nonverbal, sexual, >> abuse Pg 16

PGCMC Invites Elected Officials to Forum at PGMA

by Endesha Raheem On Sunday, December 7th, approximately 40 brothers and sisters filled classroom #2 at the Prince George’s Muslim Association to hear from their elected officials in county and state government.

State Senator Joanne Benson, and new State Delegate Elect Erek Barron of District 24, and newly elected County Councilwoman Dannielle Glaros of District 3 spent a productive afternoon at PGMA introducing themselves and their legislative priorities while learning about the needs and concerns of the Muslim community. The forum was organized by the Prince George’s County Muslim

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Council (PGCMC), one of several Muslim councils in Maryland organized to engage the Muslim community in the political and civic affairs of the county.

After Imam Azzaare gave the elected officials an overview of Islam, State Senator Benson, the senior legislator of the group, having served in the state legislature since 1991, talked about her extensive background as an educator.

She stated as her priorities improving education, transportation, and healthcare in the county and economic development projects such as the purple line, the State Housing Authority facility and trying to get the FBI into Greenbelt or Landover.

She next introduced State Delegate Elect Erek Barron emphasizing his rise from

difficult financial times as the child of a single mother to having received two law degrees from George Washington and Georgetown to now becoming an elected official. Erek concurred with the State Senator on priorities for the county and included his interest in small business development.

County Councilwoman Danielle Glaros had just been sworn in to her seat the previous Monday. Having spent the past several years as Chief of Staff to outgoing Councilman Olsen, she was returning to PGMA as an old friend having visited with her former boss on previous occasions. She received her Masters from the University Of Maryland

School Of Public Policy and is a former Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Parris Glendening. Councilwoman Glaros spoke of working cooperatively with the State officials on the aforementioned priorities.

Questions from the PGMA community started with asking the elected officials if they support closing public schools on the Eid holidays. According to a study by the Public Religion Research Institute, in the State of Maryland, 3% of the population self identifies as Muslim; the same percentage as those who self identify as Jewish. Prince George’s County Schools are closed for two Jewish Holidays. >> OFFICIALS Pg 11

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

ISB Victory Brunch: A Day to Remember By: Immama Asif | Editted by: Amarah Faizan

On Sunday, December 14th 2014, I jumped out of bed enthusiastically and donned my favorite abayah, my burgundy hijab and my blazer. I was ready to go to the masjid where a victory brunch

Pikesville Muslims Organize Health Fair Healthcare is a problematic issue for new immigrants, especially the elderly.

While Medicare is available to many citizens—age 65 and above— immigrants legally present in the U.S. for less than five years are not eligible and private insurance companies generally do not offer affordable health insurance plans for those over 65. Immigrants in this category often make use of catastrophic traveler’s insurance, which has a very high deductible andisvery expensive. In view of these harsh realities facing elderly community members, Masjid Gulzar e Madina of Raza e Mustafa Islamic Center OFFICIALS

>> continued from pg 10

Senator Benson explained that the state provides the schools with their budget but how it is spent is up to each school board. She encouraged the community to meet with their local school board member to discuss the issue. PGCMC will be following up with the members

was to be held in honor of Maryland’s newly elected politicians. The brunch took place from 10:30 am to 1 pm at the Islamic Society of Baltimore and was hosted by both ISB and the Greater Baltimore Muslim Council. As part of The Al-Rahmah Student Government Association, I was also invited to attend the event.

I entered the multi-purpose hall and I was welcomed to the table reserved for the Student Government by Raees Khan, who is a member of the Greater Baltimore Muslim Council. Our table was positioned in the front row, where we had a perfect view of all the politicians.

While we waited, we were visited by Ms. Adrienne Jones, who currently serves as the Speaker Pro Tem of the Maryland located in Millford Mill Road, Pikesville, MD took the initiative to organize a health fair on Sunday, November 23, 2014. A number of area community organizations, such as the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)Metropolitan Washington, Philippine Nurses Association, Chinese Culture and Community Center, Muslim Community Center Clinic Inc., Capital Region Telugu Society, Iraqi Association, Kerala Cultural Organization and Hindu Seva, co-sponsored this event.

COMMUNITY NEWS | 11 House of Delegates. She shared with us the details of her job and invited us to visit her office in Annapolis. Then, we began to eat our brunch of both traditional South Asian and Western dishes while we listened to speeches by multiple leaders.

District Attorney, Marilyn Mosby spoke about how we must consider the future of the community and how being unified is important. Others spoke about how we should strive to make this an even more effective environment for the children of the Baltimore community. As student body representatives, we were able to interact with these influential leaders and listen to their enlightening speeches.

politicians such as Lieutenant Governor Boyd Rutherford, Baltimore County Delegate Shelly Hettleman and Senator Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, who all shared their insight with us. Fatimah Williams, the president of the SGA said, “It was an amazing event full of inspirational leaders and I hope to achieve great accomplishments as they have. It was an eye opening event that sparked my interest for internships relating to topics like law and criminal justice as well as journalism.” All of the Al-Rahmah Student Government members that were present agreed that the event was informative and motivated them to aid their school and community even further.

The event was exceptional and I appreciated the honor of speaking to gastroenterology, hematology-oncology, otolaryngology, orthopedics, and rheumatology for the community.

A large number of physicians, nurses, and healthcare workers volunteered their resources and worked tirelessly to provide healthcare services for a large number of attendees of various ages. 290 patients benefited fromEasy access to physicians of diverse specialties under one roof provided convenient consultations for wide range of medical issues.

A dental van sponsored by Colgate providedconsultations for children ages 1 to 12. Maryland Physicians Care Van provided nutritious food, whileAmerigroup sponsored the Moon Bounce. Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind Van did eye sight screenings.

Besides yoga sessions on site, there were diabetes and cancer prevention vendor presentations, healthy living demos and advice booths. Mental and behavioral health information, often a taboo topic, was sensitively offered by Counselors Helping South Asians/Indians (CHAI).

The Samar Group obtained bone marrow sign ups and the Washington Regional Transplant Consortium enrolled organ donors. Patients were also screened for Hepatitis B and C.

In addition to primary care, the medical specialties available for free consultations included dentistry, endocrinology,

The health fair, open to people of all different ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds was also

of the school board.

A lively question and answer session continued with questions about police/ community relations, availability of affordable housing, late hours of drive thru liquor stores, the need for more community medical clinics and the demonization of Muslims through state and federal laws. Senator Benson strongly emphasized that if you want to make change you have to do it as a group

and you have to be persistent.

“To see the representatives there is a step forward for the community. I got a lot of my questions answered. There were a lot more community members there than I thought would be, and I am hopeful our community will work to make improvement for Prince George’s County” stated Munir Abdul Latif, a long time PGMA member. Nadia Hassan, a resident of Greenbelt who attended

supoorted by Rainbow Adult Day Care and the Women's Wellness Program Van. “The Metropolitan Washington Chapter of GOPIO is very pleased to be a part of this outstanding health fair, which was made possible by the collaboration of physicians, allied medical personnel, county and state health agencies, dedicated volunteers, and Masjid management, ” said Dr. Zafar Iqbal President of the GOPIO-DC Chapter.

The successful event was coordinated

by Mayur Mody and the management of Islamic Center thanked him for providing excellent indefatigable leadership. The logistics team was coordinated by Dr Surinder Singh Gill and Dr Alif Manejwala served as coordinator of medical team and Dr Sukhpal headed the team of volunteers.

With 452 attendees of all hues availing themselves of multiple medical resources under one roof, the acute need for such services was apparent throughout the day.

the forum stated, “It is time for the vast majority of American Muslims to stand up and be part of the fabric of this nation and contribute to a better America and a better world. I would like to thank PGCMC for facilitating a conversation with our local, elected officials and I encourage all to join and participate”.

For more information about PGCMC go to www.pgcmc.org.

....

12 | COMMUNITY NEWS history

>> continued from pg 1

number is hotly contested and rejected by the Chinese government’s official census.

Turani says most indigenous people of the region do not accept the name Xinjiang, meaning “new territory”, and prefer the name Sharqi Turkistan, but even using this name is seen as a threat to the sovereignty of China. He believes that China ends with the boundary of the Great Wall.

In 1949, when Mao Zedong declared the establishment of Communist rule in China, the map of China looked different than the one seen today. Tibet was free and north of Tibet, East Turkistan, the size of Alaska, existed as an independent nation.

In talking with Turani, The Muslim Link learned that the struggle for independence is not new as an East Turkistan Republic was set up in Kashgar in 1933 and again in Ghulja in the 1940s, brutally crushed both times. The republic was shortlived. Its entire leadership perished in a plane crash en route to Beijing, for talks with Chinese officials. According to the Global Museum of Communism, devoid of leadership, the East Turkistan Republic was then “liberated” by Chinese Communist Party troops. In essence, the Communists, “marched in and have

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015 occupied the overwhelmingly Muslim country, renaming it Xinjiang.”

Living in Maoist Run Kashgar Turani, born in 1962, remembers his neighborhood in Artush, 40 km from of the ancient city of Kashgar. Islam was systematically erased and every region was divided; the head of each jurisdiction was Chinese or pro Chinese, and Maoist ideology was implemented.

“I remember 3-4 years of living in a labor camp in the outskirts in Tijen, forced by the Chinese military, since my parents opposed the Chinese policies.”

Turani’s parents were labeled counter revolutionaries—bourgeois—and his father was fired from his position as the head of the agricultural department.

22 years of persecution followed his family. “In our town [where we lived], there was a man named Qudrat, and his wife, Quresh Khan. They were very poor; the government lured them with rhetoric and land, gave them a confiscated house from a landowner, after executing him,” Turani relates a story of manipulation of the masses. Happy to receive land from the government, elderly Qudrat and his family were then forced to take care of ‘a hundred pigs’. Turani and his parents, and the Khans had never seen a pig before in

Turani escaped from China and came to the United States as the first East Turkistani seeking asylum in the country.

their lives, he shudders while squeezing the memories out, of a whole population of the Muslim town being given ‘free’ piglets to raise.

“Most masajid [in our area] turned into propaganda centers, cinemas and movie theaters,” he recalls the horrific memories.

“Our county became a labor camp,” he says, and many wealthy landowners were executed.

From his middle school days, Turani recalls the destruction of a historic Muslim cemetery in the city; later a military base was built on sacred grounds.

“My father had a Quran buried in our backyard I saw that with my eyes. I saw my father dig that Quran out after the death of Chairman Mao—my father used to read that Quran.”

Dark Cloud of Death “The occupation has been beyond brutal: open-air above-ground nuclear tests that killed hundreds of thousands, executed political prisoners, razed mosques, mass forced immigration of ethnic Chinese, deliberate economic discrimination in favor of said ethnic Chinese, Sinicization, etc.,” writes D.J. McGuire, elected Chairman of the Republican Liberty Caucus of Virginia and a blogger who has been writing and lobbying against Communist China’s role in aiding terrorist states—a glaring omission from the prevailing discussions about the war against terror. The Lop Nor testing site, located in East Turkistan, was used for

....

46 individual nuclear detonations from 1964-1996.

These were the largest ongoing series of tests ever to be carried out in a populated area.

A conference was held in Brussels in The European Parliament in 2012 to examine the high rates of cancer, birth defects, and radiation-related illnesses in East Turkestan. Dr Enver Tohti, a Uyghur Surgeon and Independent Researcher, presented at the conference. He writes in '46 Detonations Later: The Human Costs of the CCP´s Nuclear Programme', that a recent study conducted by Japanese professor and physicist Jun Takada concluded that Chinese nuclear weapon tests caused more deaths than those of any other nation. Takada who studied radiation effects from tests conducted by the U.S., the former Soviet Union and France, has reported that the Chinese government surface nuclear tests caused up to 190,000 deaths in the surrounding areas from the explosion and a further million were killed by the radiation from the three-megaton explosions. This is 200 times larger than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima, says Takada, who published his findings in a book, Chinese Nuclear Tests (Iryo­k a­g akusha, 2009). Since he was not allowed into the area, he visited neighbouring Kazakhstan using radiation levels measured there from 1995 to 2002. ‘He devised a computer model to estimate fallout patterns using Soviet rec­ords of detonation size and

>> History II Pg 13

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS | 13

history II

>> continued from pg 12

wind velocity,’ according to Scientific American, extrapolating the data for China.

Escape to America Turani escaped from China and came to the United States as the first East Turkistani seeking asylum in the country.

A Physics teacher, he lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, Gulzighra, who is a registered nurse, and their four children. He looks Afghan or Pakistani, could pass for Middle Eastern, anything but Asiatic. Most Uyghurs look like him but many photographs published by newspapers in the Muslim world show ‘Chinese Muslims in Beijing’ and call them Uyghur, he says.

In September 2004, Turani and his fellow countrymen declared an East Turkistan Government in Exile inside the U.S. Congress. They have a constitution, a flag and a written language, and a coat of arms based on the two previous states.

East Turkistan exiles include Uyghurs, Kyrgyzs, Uzbeks, and Tajiks.

The People's Republic of China opposed the formation of the East Turkistan Government in Exile. The fallout was great and the US government was quick to distance themselves away from the nascent government, saying that they do not recognize them. “The government in exile stated that its goal is freedom and democracy for its people, and an end to Communist China’s occupation. It is explicitly non-violent, has repeatedly condemned al Qaeda-sponsored acts of terrorism,” writes McGuire.

Turani, whose home is graced by a huge photograph of him embracing the Dalai Lama, says that China has used the global war on terror as an excuse to continue brutal oppression of the Uyghur Muslims.

As noted by Amnesty International, many innocent Uyghur men and women including children have been massacred as recently as last Ramadan in Yarkant by the communist Chinese authorities ‘in the pretext of terrorists, extremists, and separatists.’

Dr. Haiyun Ma, a Hui Chinese professor of history in Maryland agrees, “China’s “Anti-Three (Evil) Forces” campaign

The Ministers of the East Turkistan Islamic Republic, Kashgar, 1933.

Sawut Damullam (third from right): Prime Minister. Photo from eastturkistangovernmentinexile.us (extremism, separatism, terrorism), begun roughly in the 1990s, has since extended to preventing the Uyghurs from gaining their independence. China — which looks at the U.S. waging a war in Afghanistan (also against terrorism and extremism) not so far away — has used the perceived threat of terrorism to justify their actions in Xinjiang.”

the main city is filled by ethnic Chinese; in some areas there are only five percent Turkistani people left, especially in the downtown area.

Curating A Forgotten History Turani asserts that the native Uyghur population is diminishing. There is no

China opposed the formation of the East Turkistan Government in Exile. The fallout was great and the US was quick to distance themselves away from the nascent government

There has been development in the region, Turani concurs, but just like the West Bank settlements by and for Israelis, the development is only reserved for ethnic Hans or those who toe the Chinese government’s line. Urumchi,

hard data to show that the population is decreasing, and in fact most census studies show that there has been a population growth. However, the percentage share of the Uyghur population is decreasing based on official and unofficial statistics. In 1964, it was 90 percent of the population,

but through immigration from mainland China, the population is roughly 50-50.

The Muslim population is controlled through birth control and forced abortion, which Muslims believe are divinely forbidden or haram. Turani says that if Muslim mothers are found pregnant with more than 2 children, they are taken to the hospital and even if they are 9 months pregnant their babies are systematically slaughtered in their bellies—physically, socially, psychologically and spiritually scarring the Muslim families. Many Uyghurs live in poverty, their children are not allowed to practice Islam. Those who work for the government are also not allowed to practice their faith. This Ramadan, Muslim students and civil servants were ordered to avoid taking part in fasting. Students who were found fasting were force fed during the day.

Young boys and men are routinely taken away for ‘illegal’ Islamic classes.

Dr. Ma verifies the Tukistani leader’s claims; in an interview with Duke University’s public scholarship forum >> History III Pg 14

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14 | COMMUNITY NEWS history III

>> continued from pg 13

Islamic Commentary, he comments that “economically, the Uyghurs have little, if no access to the Chinese state economy, which includes state corporations and the quasi-military Xinjiang Development and Construction Corps (Its members are farmers during peacetime and soldiers during wartime). Unlike the Hanpopulated coastal regions of the southeast, the Uyghur economy in Xinjiang is almost dissociated from the Chinese economy.

Adding to this, there was a large Han immigration [to the region], after the “liberation” of Xinjiang – following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Large military and militia personnel, their relatives, intellectuals, and youth were sent by the government to Xinjiang during various periods. More recently, Han farmers and businessmen came to Xinjiang. Since they typically have friendly relations with Xinjiang officials and military (either they are friends or relatives), Han farmers and businessmen coming to Xinjiang have been able to quickly dominate Xinjiang’s economic sectors — from mining to farming.”

In his office, Turani has a studio set up where he broadcasts speeches on his Youtube channels—social media and the internet is extremely controlled in China—intent on making sure that his

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015 people don’t forget their legacy and their history. There is a collection of photos of Uyghur scholars, leaders. A wall is dedicated to Muhammad Ali Tawfiq, the reformist educator who built 24 schools in his city. He was murdered by the Chinese along with his followers in 1937, including Turani’s uncles.

A devout Muslim with a melodious qiraa (recitation), Turani shows photographs he has curated of young men arrested for wearing the Turkish flag on their t-shirts, Islamic scholars in jail for teaching Quran to children, Uyghur women jailed for wearing the hijab. “Why doesn’t the Muslim world talk about us?” he questions. He also says that many times Chinese Muslims are shown in media when referencing Uyghur people, further diluting their existence.

The Case of Professor Tohti

Before his arrest Ilham Tohti, 44, was attacked by three secret policemen who screamed, “We’ll kill your whole family!” shares his friend, in an article about his arrest in The Guardian. Tohti was also a blogger and focused on the need to implement, “Xinjiang’s longpromised autonomy; the need to observe the rule of law and human rights; that all ethnic groups should share fairly in the fruits of China’s development; and that discrimination based on region, ethnicity or gender must be eliminated.”

Recently an economics professor and Uyghur rights advocate Ilham Tohti was arrested and put on trial for ‘promoting’ separatism. Turani takes exception to this claim—separatism is not the right word in this situation, as the Uyghurs are occupied, he says. an accusation of separatism carries the death sentence.

“Criticism and dissent is good for any government. What was Professor [Tohti] doing that he deserves to [be] jailed?”

Turani asks. “Anyone who stands up for their human rights is labeled a counterrevolutionary,” he added.

When Western newspapers claim violent separatism in the region, Turani struggles to contain his displeasure. “The place is like a pressure cooker; no one is allowed to talk, cameras watch every move.

Hundreds and thousands are missing or

Turani wants independence, other Uyghurs wants autonomy. Either way, he believes that a fair referendum could never take place in a region where two or more people are not allowed to convene without suspicion and harassment from the secret

ISB Helps Stop Hunger Now With Over 100,000 Meals Stop Hunger Now’s meal packaging program is a fun, hands-on international mission project where volunteers work in an assembly line to package high protein, vitamin rich meals. This year it was held on

....

dead. And we are violent separatists?” he says. Violence stems from the repressive policies, not from radical ideology. Many Uyghur scholars such as Abdulkarim Abduwali, alims (religious scholars), businessmen, and educated people have died under the regime and Tohti is yet another name on the list of people who have sacrificed their lives.

Independence vs Autonomy

December 6 and we had 90 volunteers. We started at 10:00 am and finished at 12:30 pm making 100,584 meals ready to send out to countries where children are staving. These meals were packaged by the Al Rahmah Sunday School students, parents, ISB Youth and ISB community at large. ISB Youth Group leader, Naveed Ahmed, Haris Qudsi, Saad Malik and Samad Husain has been a great asset in this program.These

police; where jobs, passports, travel, even Jumuah khutbahs are all closely monitored by the Chinese government.

People lose their pensions if they go on Hajj—if they are lucky enough to acquire a passport. Turani’s relatives have all been blackmarked and cannot travel outside the region, unless they bribe officials.

There has been some debate about the Uyghur identity, especially by Kristian Petersen, an Assistant Professor at the University of Nebraska Omaha who wrote a study in the Journal of Muslim Minority Affairs on Uyghur presence of the internet— who they originally were and how and where the name was applied—but Turani wants freedom for all the East Turkistani people, not just those who identify as the Uyghurs. At a recent “East Turkistan Awareness Day" event at the Pohick Regional Library in Northern Virginia, a dozen neighbors anda variety of activists attended. They also held an Independence day event on November 12, 2014 to mark 71 years of struggle.

Turani says he has the support of a handful of congressmen after years of activism.

From time to time,Turkey will challenge China on its oppressive policies, but he says most other Muslim nations, including neighboring Pakistan, have turned their back. He understands why his people’s struggle is not a priority for people of other faiths but to his Muslim brothers,Turani has a message, “Do you not feel our pain?”

package meals will go from the little hands who packed it directly to the little hands of the starving children of the world having a real meal after long long time, subanulAllah. Alhumduillah this is our second year and InShaaAllah we expect to do this event on annual bases. Next year November 1st, 2015 will be our Stop Hunger Now event. [Source: Sister Nasrin Rahman.

All photos courtesy of ISB]

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS | 15

Baltimore County Muslim Council Elections Scheduled for January Baltimore County Muslim Council (BCMC) was formed 11 years ago as an advocacy group for Muslim residents of Baltimore County - irrespective of their national origin, race or political affiliation.

After a reorganizing breakfast at Islamic Society of Baltimore in late November, the BCMC Organizing Committee has announced December 28, 2014 as the final date for obtaining BCMC Membership.

Submission for nominations for the BCMC Board of Directors and Executive Committee are due on January 11, 2015 by 8 p.m. Elections are scheduled for January 25.

The Membership Sub-Committee includes Nasrin Rahman, Saleem Ahmed, Monica Lee and the Election Sub-Committee comprises of Farooq Marfani, Tufail Chaudhry, and Mohsin Majid.

Contact fmarfani@gmail.com or mdlee123@gmail.com for further details.

New Hifdh Program Starts in Frederick The Islamic Society of Frederick is starting a hifdh program for homeschoolers in Frederick County. The program run by Imam Qasim will accept boys and girls ages 5 and up for the memorization of the Quran.

Tajweed, correct reading and memorization will be the focus of the full-time program which will run from 8 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon from Monday - Thursday.

ISF says the cost is minimal, and children are expected to complete memorization in 2 to 3 years.

The community is also reaching out to homeschooling parents to convene and pool resources to conduct homeschooling sessions on the masjid premises.

For additional information please contact Waleed at admin@isfmd.com.

Abdullah ibn Amr reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, say, “Verily, the Muslim is directed in the right manner.

He will achieve the rank of one who always fasts and stands for prayer with the verses of Allah due to his good character and his generous nature.�

[Musnad Ahmad 6610] ....

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

16 | ADVERTISEMENT gaza

>> continued from pg 8 Many have witnessed three wars in their brief lives.

Providing a sense of safety in a very unstable atmosphere is of vital importance.

UNRWA employs 200 local counsellors to support traumatized children, parents and teachers as they deal with the aftermath of the violence that killed over 2000 people.

UNRWA presence in the Palestine started in 1949.

According a 2011 UNESCO report, almost 83% of learners reported feeling nervous; 57% of them did not feel safe at school, 67% felt unsafe traveling to and from school and over 70% had nightmares and feared another war. Learning outcomes also suffered: almost 77 % of teachers at primary, preparatory and secondary levels reported lower performance levels in their students “most of the time” or “always”. One-quarter of university students surveyed reported feeling little hope in the future. “Before the war, only

abuse

>> continued from pg 10 economic and spiritual abuse, as well as stalking and cyberstalking. Dr. Kharma concluded his presentation with suggestions for solutions that included victims knowing their rights and responsibilities, seeking counseling, keeping a diary of events, learning about healthy relationships and seeking guidance from the Qur’an. He also noted one community in Philadelphia that publicly identifies abusers and refuses to endorse their future marriages.

Sister Asma Hanif, Founder and Executive Director, Muslimat Al Nisaa, a safe haven for homeless Muslim women and children located in Baltimore, MD, provided a poignant reality check of the effects of domestic abuse/violence in our community.

"Domestic violence affects people regardless of race, ethnicity, class, sexual and gender identity, religious affiliation, age, immigration status, and ability. Because Muslim women victims of domestic violence may experience the abuse in culturally and religiously specific ways, we as service providers should consider their religious and cultural background and the unique issues faced by the victim in order to tailor services to best meet their needs.

Muslimat Al Nisaa’s goal is to provide not

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one or two students out of 100 in my classes would fail,” said one university professor. “Now more than 12 out of 100 students fail.” This was after the Operation Cast Lead.

‘To help children and their families, UNRWA counselors provide psychological first aid, orientation and advice to parents, and individual counseling to those that suffer from psychological distress.’ Some children wake up screaming at night, others can’t fall asleep out of fear, days are hard as well with some children having burst of aggression, nervousness, or restlessness. Through play, relaxation, drawing, storytelling and meditation, the counselors engage in psychosocial activities with children.

The agreement signatories in Washington D.C. included Islamic Help CEO Saif Ahmad, United Muslim Relief president and CEO Dr. Abed Ayoub, Baitulmaal Executive Director Suleiman Alghanem, Life for Relief and Development CEO Abdallah Boumediene, and Talat Shaikh from the Muslim Community and Education Centre. Two of the organizations

just 'shelter' but also culturally competent services. Understanding the specific culture, language, social, economic and religious nuances of particular individuals and families allows Muslimat Al Nisaa to be respectful of their diversity and capable of addressing their basic human needs in a way that they might achieve optimal success. I reference Dr. Ingrid Mattson, my Professor and Mentor who stated that, “when establishing services for individuals based on their needs, one cannot do so without first inviting them to the table”. This is exactly what is meant by being culturally competent. A culturally competent ‘shelter’ for Muslim women victims of domestic violence can only be actualized through the identification of the cultural and societal influences that impact disparities related to domestic violence in the Muslim community. It is only with the input of those victimized can we truly determine the requirements necessary for policy development and establish evidence based practices for culturally specific domestic violence shelter providers and social service professionals. Neglecting to understand and manage social and cultural differences, failing to conduct community assessments and resident/ victim feedback and ignoring the need to incorporate evidence based standards may have negative consequences for minority victims in general and Muslim women

are British based charities.

Muslim relief coalition for Gaza spokesperson Oussama Mezoui said, “In working together with UNRWA, which has a proven track record in Gaza, we can ensure that essential aid is getting to those most in need. The first stage is to work on the emergency response and to ensure families are fed, provided with clean water, and have access to essential healthcare.

Once this is done, we will look to work on reconstruction projects that will enable Gaza to get back on its feet.”

A contract signing ceremony for the HHRD-UNRWA project was also held, which was attended by Asif Khan and Ghazala Ali of HHRD Mid-Atlantic Region. in addition to the $50,000, HHRD is sending convoy of trucks from Jordan to UNRWA in Gaza of non-perishable food items worth around $115,000. “More items will be sent from Jordan in the near future,” said Asif Khanof HHRD.“Through continuing generous giving from our benefactors and partners like UNRWA, we will continue to work hard to cater to the needs of as many people as possible;

victims of domestic violence in particular."

Imam Faizul Khan of the Islamic Society of Washington (ISWA) located in Silver Spring, MD provided the Islamic perspective of domestic abuse/violence according to the Qur’an and Sunnah. He advised the audience that domestic abuse/ violence is unacceptable and is contrary to our beliefs as Muslims. He also discussed his long history and involvement with domestic abuse/violence. Imam Khan has been working for over 30 years with families in crisis in the Muslim community.

He has made a long term commitment to eradicating domestic abuse/violence in the Muslim community and has a comprehensive program in place at his masjid to address the issue. Additionally, Imam Khan is on the board of Muslimat Al Nisaa and has received numerous awards for his work with domestic abuse/violence.

He realizes that the Muslim community is in crisis with this issue and is willing to work with local Imams to establish a program at their masjid Sister Ameedah Rashid, a Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, gave a presentation on the impact of domestic abuse/violence on children. Sister Ameedah noted that 3-10 million children witness domestic violence in America each year, and that the degree of trauma children experience depends on

helping save the lives of hundreds,” Mr. Khan said.

With winter arriving soon, the Director of the UNRWA Washington representative office, Matthew Reynolds, said that despite the current ceasefire, the suffering of Gaza’s population continues. “These civilians have lost everything—many leaving their homes with literally only the clothes they were wearing,” Mr. Reynolds said. “Providing them with non-food items like blankets, jerry cans for water storage, diapers and family hygiene kits are the basics needed for survival and a start on the long road of recovery.”

Other Muslim Relief organizations such as Islamic Relief and Zakat Foundation of America are also long term partners of UNRWA as it is the only organization that has the clout and say with the Israeli Defense Forces to get humanitarian supplies in great quantity into the Gaza Strip.

To donate to the people of Gaza visit www. unrwausa.org

the age of the child, the severity, length and frequency of the domestic abuse/ violence. While infants may experience developmental delays and failure to thrive, school age children are likely to experience psychological effects such as depression, anger and cognitive delays, behavioral effects such as aggression and self-destructiveness, and physical effects such as head/stomach aches, insomnia and bedwetting. She also noted that children exposed to domestic abuse/ violence are at higher risk of child abuse and neglect, and also chronic physical, emotional, and mental health challenges.

They also demonstrate increased academic difficulties, along with challenges in relationships and job performance as adults.

In her conclusion, Sister Ameedah noted that the authoritarian family structure, in which fathers are the ultimate authority, can be particularly problematic in cases of domestic abuse/violence.

Sister Nisa Muhammad, Founder and Executive Director, Wedded Bliss Foundation, a community-based organization helping couples create healthy marriages. Sister Nisa emphasized that “as a community we have a responsibility to help couples be successful in their >> abuse II Pg 17

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS | 17

isolated

>> continued from pg 5

She is grateful that the community is finally moving from the awareness stage to a place of action. EnabledMuslim provides them with access to relevant information about their situation and the ability to connect and sustain longlasting relationships with others who have similar experiences. EnabledMuslim advisers include Ali, Isra Bhatty, Amin Tawakul, Asad Moten, Sukaina Dada, and Mohammed Yousuf of advocacy group Smile Canada, Debra DePalma, Sarah Kalim-Ullah, and William Gaventa.

“Of all the potential resources we could provide through EnabledMuslim.org (including job listings and Islamic perspectives), the overwhelming number of respondents were looking for a network to connect with others like themselves,” shares Siddiqi. In response to a question about resources to help Muslim communities learn more about disability issues, respondents felt the number one priority was to provide "information on how to better welcome and include Muslims living with disabilities in Muslim community activities," followed closely by "recommendations for disability-­related events and services in Muslim communities (e.g., educational workshops, a fun fair for kids living with abuse II

>> continued from pg 16 marriages. Don't turn a deaf ear or blind eye to the suffering many of us know couples experience. We need effective strategies to build strong loving healthy relationships in our marriages in the Muslim community.

You have to make the commitment to love, honor and cherish your spouse at all times, good and bad. Couples have to seek out resources to strengthen their most important relationship. Patience, kindness and love for your spouse are important attributes towards achieving wedded bliss.

Many of us need to learn the skills to be excellent husbands and wives”. Wedded Bliss Foundation offers classes for couples to learn the skills to be successful in their marriages according to the Sunnah of our dear Prophet (PBUH).

Imam Bilal Ali, Program Director of Millati Islami (The Path of Peace), a 12-Step recovery program for persons that experience problems associated with addiction. The steps and traditions of Millati Islami are based upon Islamic

Masajid are usually not places where one would expect people with disbilities to feel excluded, alone, or worse treated with disdain. disabilities, jobs listing for adults living with disabilities)." EnabledMuslim plans to follow up by providing these resources as well.

Masajid are usually not places where one would expect people with disbilities to feel excluded, alone, or worse treated with disdain. How can we transform our mosques into spaces where Muslims with disabilities and their families feel welcomed and have ample opportunities for worship, friendship, and leadership, ask advocates concerned with disability inclusiveness?

MUHSEN found by Sh Sulieman, is run and managed by Joohi Tahir, who has a daughter with autism and “has constantly struggled, as many Muslims do, with the lack of understanding and accommodations for people with special needs in [masajid] across the country,” according to Sh Sulieman.

Accessibility is a big concern for special principles. Imam Bilal discussed his experience with domestic abuse/violence in the Muslim community and through his work with Millati Islami. He stated that domestic abuse/violence can be a kind of addiction; as an addiction is a state defined by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. A person may be addicted to domestic abuse/ violence to obtain a sense of dominance and superiority and gain or maintain power and control over their spouse. The Muslim community is greatly in need of intervention programs to assist marriages that are experiencing this difficulty. Imam Bilal is also utilizing his work with Millati Islami to educate program participants and assist them with conquering this issue as well.

Brother Anu Kemet, Attorney provided insight to the judicial processes in Prince George’s County and the state of Maryland in relation to domestic abuse/violence cases. Brother Anu informed the attendees that once the matter has reached his level of involvement that court orders or a

needs families. “Inclusivity in prayer areas that accommodate both those with disabilities and their families, this includes architectural insight that has implications for the usual makeup of our prayer areas. Plenty of benches, ramps (if there are no elevators), uncarpeted areas, good lighting, easy to reach bookshelves, wider pathways that lead into the prayer areas, handlebars on at least one of the walls if not all, and much more,” shared a woman, whose sister has cerebral palsy when asked by the MUHSEN admin on their Facebook page: “What is the single most important service in your opinion, that your Masjid can provide for Individuals/Families with Disabilities?”

Classes, trained Sunday school teachers, on site support groups were all on the wish list. “It is so important that you see the child, not just a disability. These children are no less Muslim and no less deserving,” Tahir has advocated through the years.

MUHSEN will advocate, educate, train and implement programs and services criminal action is warranted. He stated that the Muslim community needs to be proactive in prevention and intervention of domestic abuse/violence cases to prevent involvement with the criminal justice system. He also emphasized that the legal system’s definition of what constitutes abuse may be different from the community’s comprehension.

Imam Talib Abdus Samad, Executive Director and Deputy Imam of Islamic Research and Humanitarian Services Center of America (IRHSCA) in Capital Heights, MD, discussed the importance of Imams seriously listening to sisters’ complaints about spousal abuse and not just telling them to go home and pray to Allah for guidance.

Imams must realize that responding to the situation in this manner may cause greater harm to the sister and her children. The immediate remedy may be to find a safe place for the sister and her children until further intervention can be done. Imams need to seek conflict resolution training to obtain knowledge of the proper manner to handle domestic abuse/violence issues in

nationwide to improve access to masajids for handicapped and special needs individuals as well as acceptance and inclusion by the community in all aspects of their daily lives.

One family member commented that they stopped taking their father to the masjid as segregated prayer areas made it difficult for their mother to keep an eye on their father with the disability.

The EnabledMuslim website has section for individuals with disabilities, loved ones with people with disabilities, health professionals and members of the Muslim community. Also featured are links to resources and highlights about notable Muslims with Disabilities.

Siddiqi says the site is still a work in progress and help is needed ‘to make it grow into a robust resource that connects people nationwide and beyond.’

Both these initiatives have the capability and the access—to high profile advocates and policy makers— to make serious impact on the quality of life of many American Muslims with special needs, their caretakers, loved ones, and communities. [Source: EnabledMuslims]

their communities. Families in conflict need intervention prior to the situation escalating to the abusive stage. As a community, we must address this issue and can no longer sweep it “under the rug”.

Domestic Abuse/Violence information pamphlets from Prince George’s County Office of Domestic Violence were available for forum attendees that provided information about the services available to county residents. For additional information please contact Jackie Rhone, Director, Prince George’s County Office of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking at 301265-8423 or their website at http://www. princegeorgescountymd.gov/sites/family/ Resources/domestic-violence.

To learn more about the work of Prince George’s County Muslim Council visit www.pgcmc.org and/or https://www. facebook.com/pgcmcorg.

....

18 | COMMUNITY NEWS shadows

>> continued from pg 6

until DACA— the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. On June 15, 2012, President Obama created a new federal policy giving temporary permission to stay and work in the United States for certain undocumented youth who came to the U.S. as children.

After paying her $465 and submitting her DACA paperwork: Naveed was safe from deportation, got a work permit and a driver license in New York, paid in-state tuition, and enrolled in a nursing program.

“It was huge relief [and] made life a lot easier,” says Naveed. Her status expires in March and she is working on her DACA renewal process.

In his November 2014 address on television, President Obama said that mass amnesty for all undocumented immigrants would be unfair and mass deportation ‘would be both impossible and contrary to our character.’ With Congress unable to address the broken immigration system, he gave a recent executive order to protect five million unauthorized immigrant parents who have lived in the U.S. for at least five years and have children who were either born in the U.S. or are legal permanent residents from deportation, including Naveed’s parents. diabetes

>> continued from pg 8

is over,”says Dr Saeed. Similar sessions as well as chronic disease management workshops were also offered at Mustafa Center and Islamic Center of North Virginia Trust.

Dr Saeed is proud of this batch. They come every week and on time, and genuinely seem to enjoy the class and each other’s company. “ADAMS experience has been solid,” he says. He needs more coleaders, especially Muslims. Currently he teaches the classes with his non-Muslim colleague. “I need passionate people who want to help others. You don't need a medical health background, just a willingness to commit to a 4 hour training and 6 week commitment.”

The curriculum is prepared by Stanford University and they are very particular that the exact program is followed. An

....

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015 The new changes in the Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) and DACA will help families stay together.

Starting in May, pending a background check, those qualifying under DAPA can also apply for employment authorization.

This order also toughens security along the nation’s southern border. Seventeen states have already filed a joint lawsuit in federal court to try blocking the executive order. Like many undocumented people, Naveed doesn’t want to be a political pawn, used for election year rhetoric.

She dreams of a life without the burden of travel restrictions, dreams of being able to have long term goals.

Education about the process is important as many vulnerable people are scammed.

Naveed gives the examples of notarios in the Hispanic community; she works for El Centro, a storefront immigrant day worker center in Staten Island. Notario means lawyer in Spanish, but in the boroughs of New York a notario is just a notary public. Many notarios have committed immigration fraud, charging fees for help they never provide and submitting unneeded paperwork that can often get undocumented people in trouble.

They apply for things that undocumented people don’t qualify for, putting them at risk for deportation. According to the American Bar Association, victims often permanently lose opportunities to pursue observer from the state will come to monitor a session or two to make sure that the county does not deviate from the program. Sometimes attendees do ask Dr Saeed Islamic solutions to their health problems and he gives them the Prophetic example: eat less. The Prophet Muhammad would eat one meal a day, eat two meals a day and don’t eat when you are not hungry.

Farrukh Husain holds out his prescriptions for the nine medications he takes every single day. Looking at numbers, Dr Saeed thinks he should go back to his doctor as he should be able to cut down on the medication. Husain has lost weight, he walks a mile 3-4 times a week on the treadmill. Spicy food and rice is also cut from his plate. He works in Alexandria and makes to the class a little late but it is worth the drive. “More people should come and benefit from this program,” assesses the Sterling based accountant.

“Another thing we have been doing here

immigration relief because a notario has damaged their case.

Immigration is often viewed as a Latino issue, but it affect all communities. At a recent DACA information panel at a library in a ‘desi’ neighborhood in New Jersey, Naveed met many young women from South Asia who came to the US on H-1 visas with their husbands. Due to the recession, many of their spouses lost their jobs and work authorizations, and they overstayed. It is tremendous emotional and psychological burden to carry.

Having these difficult conversations is important, says the 24 year old.

“Communities have to provide safe spaces where these conversations can take place,” she adds. Mistrust of authorities and fear of deportation also stops many from talking about their status or applying for status change. For those concerned about give their information to the government, Naveed says honesty is key; the government is collecting information.

There are very revealing questions asked in the forms about places lived and schools attended, says Naveed. But it is a benefit that seven million other people are not getting, she says, and those eligible should take advantage so they can become productive members of society.

She acknowledges the fear, but no one is being fined, not even employers, says Naveed, encouraging eligible people to at the Health Department for a number of years is we help the uninsured find medical care. I frequently help uninsured patients get connected.” says Dr Saeed. He appreciates the time that he given at the pulpit of area Islamic Centers. Some have not let him speak or set up workshops but others have been welcoming. He keeps campaigning on.

Resources in Fairfax County Fairfax County’s Community Health Care Network (CHCN) is a place where uninsured people can find free or low cost primary care. In addition to enrolling eligible patients into this network, the medical social workers at each of these three clinics help patients to become enrolled in other medical care programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), Kaiser Bridge, and other programs a patient may be eligible for. Set up an appointment with a medical social worker to find a medical home that is best for you. For

sign up for DACA. The leaders in community, especially those on the pulpit, set the tone of countering the stigma, if a message of confidentiality and help is sent to undocumented congregants.

A poster with resources such as contacts to attorneys, or immigrant rights groups that can help file paperwork without fraud on a Islamic center bulletin board would be beneficial. “You can’t force someone to come out of the shadows; you can provide a safe space for them,” she says.

DACA is temporary; it is not a pathway to citizenship but it does have many advantages, reminds Naveed. “No one wants to worry that will I make it home tonight? Will there be a raid at work tonight? Don't make it harder on yourself and your children than it has to be,” she advises those who qualify. Deferred action or DACA is only a temporary measure and is not intended to, and does not grant, legal status to the individuals that the DREAM Act seeks to benefit. Only Congress can award lawful permanent resident status or citizenship, so immigrant advocates think it is essential that work continues towards the passage of the DREAM Act. As she fills out paperwork for her parents, Naveed thinks about the many friends and community members among the 7 million that did not qualify and continues to organize for immigration reform.

more information about CHCN please see this link … http://www.fairfaxcounty. gov/hd/pcs/hdchcn.htm The Fairfax County Health Department offers a variety of free services (including pediatric dental care) for eligible patients, for more information please see this link… http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/ hdclinicsite.htm Here is a link to Northern Virginia Health Services Coalition: http://www. novaclinics.org/home Here is a link to a free clinic called HealthWorks for Northern Virginia … http://hwnova.org/Here is a link to the HOPE free clinic in Fairfax … https:// www.missionlifecenter.org/hopeclinic Here is a link to the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) free clinic called the ADAMS Compassionate Healthcare Network (ACHN) … http:// achnclinic.com/

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015 Green

>> continued from pg 6

the news.

Gina McCarthy, chief of the Environmental Protection Agency, addressing a crowded room of leading environmental advocates and journalists, stressed that is hard to hear the voices of a community if the community is not represented. She said that organizations should reflect the people they serve, if they are serious about bringing clean air and clean water to all Americans.

Also speaking on the “Breaking the Green Ceiling” panel were the incoming President of the NRDC, Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of the Interior, Rhea Suh, Kelly Brown, Director of D5 Coalition, Jacob Harold, President of Guidestar, Roger-Mark DeSouza.

Director, Population, Environmental Security and Resilience at the Wilson Center, Mark Maganas, Green Latinos nd Robert Raben, founder, The Raben Group and Green 2.0.

Dr Dorceta E. Taylor, a professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Natural Resources and Environment and author of “The State of Diversity in Environmental Organizations: Mainstream NGOs, Foundations & Government Agencies", surveyed 191 environmental nonprofits, 74 government environmental agencies, and 28 leading environmental grantmaking foundations and included confidential interviews of 21 environmental leaders from diverse backgrounds and experience. The bottom line is that staff diversity at organizations is not reflective of the numbers in society.

People of color are nearly 40 percent of the U.S. population, and comprise 29 percent of the science and engineering workforce and they consistently vote for environmental issues at a higher rate than whites, yet they do not exceed 16 percent of the staff in any of the organizations surveyed.

Dr Taylor found talented minorities

COMMUNITY NEWS | 19

were not hired or retained due to either unconscious bias, discrimination or insular recruiting. Much of this happens because people tend to hire people they know, and the United States is increasingly “sorted” along racial lines, as three quarters of white people do not have a friend who is a person of color. Studies also show people can be consciously committed to equality, and deliberately work to behave without prejudice, yet still hold unconscious negative prejudices or stereotypes. Scientific research has demonstrated that biases thought to be absent or forgotten remain as "mental residue" in most people.

“Diversity of perspective, of approach, of experience, matters. That difference makes all the difference,” remarked Roger-Mark DeSouza, on a panel at the Green 2.0 conference. Environmental organizations usually conjure up visions of diversity as the environment is one issue that crosses racial and religious lines.

Many attendees were surprised to learn that most environmental organizations are less diverse than the White House Press Corps.

Fatima Hasan wasn't surprised by the findings in the Green 2.0 report, even though in her work she has found that people of color are often the most affected by pollution. An African American Muslim, she is a certified planner with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and spoke to the Muslim Link recently about her experience as a minority in the environmental movement. “It has been hard from me,” she says. A member of the Sierra Club and the Severn River Association, the oldest river association in the country, it is tough for her to attend meetings and not find any person of color, much less a Muslim of color. She is trying her best to change that by recruiting more people from her community.

“Our community suffers a lot from environmental diseases like cancer, asthma, from ruining of the air, water

and the soil, so we need to be concerned about [the environment],” says Hasan, who attended the Green 2.0 event.

African Americans in the United States are three times more likely to die from asthma related problems than whites.

Most communities of color live in urban areas, near power plants, oil refineries and waste management facilities. According to the report, Air of Injustice: African Americans and Power Plant Pollution, 68 percent of African Americans live within 30 miles of a coal-fired power plant, compared to 56 percent of whites.

Most of Hasan’s work involves agricultural preservation, urban and rural agriculture, and the food system in Prince George's County, MD. The county has a lot of food deserts—a geographical location where nutritious and wholesome food is hard to obtain. It is also a majority African American county and residentially highly segregated with many all African American and Hispanic neighborhoods.

Hasan has worked on a number of other projects in her career here that focus on green infrastructure, water resources, and air and water quality.

“We know that communities of color have a disproportionate impact from various environmental externalities- by-products and superfund sites [abandoned hazardous toxic waste is gathered] and poor water quality, etc.,” says Hasan. There are ten such sites in Prince George’s County.

Yet, it is a challenge to get people of color in the community involved, there are so many more urgent issues that are on their plate, she says, like feeding their families, getting food on the table, and keeping their homes. This problem is truly a reflection of the intersection of poverty and structural racism: the housing crisis hit people of color the hardest, the unemployment rate among African Americans is about double that among whites, as it has been for most of the past six decades, according to a report published by Pew Research.

Hasan believes that the Green 2.0

coalition is really reaching out to put a spotlight on the issue of lack of people of color represented in major environmental groups. “I think one of responsibility of these organizations and [also] people of color— Black scientists, Black engineers, Asians, Hispanics— to latch on to this initiative and identify people in their groups who would benefit from this initiative,” says Hasan.

Another way communities of color could be involved in the green movemnet is through religious organizations. The environment is a faith-based issue for a lot of Muslims. Hasan has a strong connection with the environment becuase of her faith. “It is Allah’s creation,” and it hurts her to the core to see corporations and individuals disrespecting the environment. “They are functioning from a major spiritual disease... greed,” she says. Raping of the planet, removing resources without caring about the people who live in those area, producing waste products that impact communities is a human issue as much as an environmental issue.

Hasan also recognizes that some Islamic centers and masajid have made efforts such as community gardens, like the one at the Islamic Society of Annapolis and Masjid Muhammad in Washington D.C., getting people to relate back to the Earth to grow their own good quality, locally grown food. Discussing project planning, she says that it is imperative for masajid to be cognizant of the environment at their planning stages so when they build a new project, they are sensitive to environmental issues such as storm water management, the Chesapeake Bay and tree canopies. If religious organizations make the environment a priority, so will the congrgrants.

“If you cannot breathe the air, drink the water and eat the food what is the use of anything?” says Hasan sagely.

Read the full report at www.diversegreen. org/report.

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

HEALTH & FAMILY | 21

Running for the Hills

The Rocky Mountain Ummah

By Jann McClary In May of 2011, Sister Jann McClary and her husband Tariq moved from the Washington DC metropolitan area to establish a new home in the mountains of Colorado, building it from the ground up as part of their plan to become free of the spiritual and physical stress of modern urban life. Sister Jann is documenting her experiences for the Muslim Link.

See her earlier installments at www. muslimlinkpaper.com by searching for “Running for the Hills”. Make sure you select “Exact Phrase” in the search options. – TML Do you know how incredibly you've been blessed with the Muslim community around you? Sisters and brothers in Lanham, Baltimore, Gaithersburg, College Park, Laurel, Capitol Heights, D.C., Fredericksburg, Germantown, and I haven't even started on the Northern Virginia crew. I mean, you've got Muslims all over the place! Alhamdullillah! And Allah subhaanah wa t'ala says in Surat ul An'am “There is not a moving (living) creature on Earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, but are communities like you...”

When my husband, Tariq, and I first moved here in 2011, along with the young brother who made the trip with us, we were the only Muslims within a 75-mile radius, or so we thought. Then, in our second year we came across a brother in the Walmart parking lot. Later that same year a brother from Jordan opened a small dollar store at the edge of town. Wow, five Muslims. Enough for two whole rows in salaat. Alas, two of the brothers moved away. Back down to three... (sigh).

2013 rolls around, and we're driving down Main Street one day and my husband goes, “Look! Is that a hijabi?!” There, to my amazement was a young sister in a stylish hijab. We pulled over and I

stumbled out of the car in my haste to give her the greetings. I hurriedly explained that I was the only Muslimah in town and I was so happy to meet her and I hadn't seen another Muslimah in who-knowshow-long and I couldn't believe here she was just walking down Main Street and how long had she been in town and would she like to have lunch some time?

And then I took a breath. She stared at me wide-eyed and I introduced myself. She laughed and told me her name was Du'ah.

Well, of course, I thought: I made du'ah to Allah for a sister and Allah sends me a sister named Du'ah. How appropo! She was an attorney for the public defenders office, but was scheduled to be transferred to Denver (at the total opposite end of the

mama and Catholic high school etiquette class taught me. We exchanged salaams and I found out her name is Hadeel, and she and her husband, Majdi, are from Jordan and Palestine. We visit with them, pray with them, and eat with them, and they can both stir up a mean pot of bamia!

Now, as if things couldn't get any better, on October 1st of this year, we had two new shahadahs, Billie Jean and her son Kyle. They had been our neighbors down the road the first year we lived here, but then they moved into town. They, too, had wanted to homestead, but it hadn't worked out the way they'd planned. But we kept in touch with them, visiting every now and then and sharing Islam with them. Then,

When my husband, Tariq, and I first moved here in 2011, along with the young brother who made the trip with us, we were the only Muslims within a 75-mile radius, or so we thought. state!) in one week. So we got together a couple of times for lunch and I had a sister for six days. Alhamdulillah. Hey, I'm not complaining because a ni'mah is a ni'mah, albeit short-lived, and I'm grateful for as many as I can get!

So, lo and behold, we're at the gas station earlier this year, and when Tariq comes out of the convenience store after paying for the gas, he tells me, all calm and everything, as if it's an everyday occurrence, “There's a Muslimah in there.” Well, this time I kept my composure and approached her sanely and with adaaab, and the manners my

this summer they had come to visit us while we were working on the cabin. And they had questions about Islam. Intelligent questions. Thoughtful questions. Like there'd been some pondering going on behind our backs. So they went home that day, insha Allah, clearer about some things.

About two days later I'm in a friend's car coming home from town and Tariq had gone to Pueblo, a larger town about an hour away, with a neighbor. I get a cell phone call and it's Billie Jean. The conversation went something like this: “We've been thinking, and we want to

Brother Tariq (right) and Basheer.

Photo courtesy of the author. do Islam. How do we become Muslim?”, she calmly asks.

“Wait! What?! You want to make shahadah?”, I stammered.

“What's sha-da-dah?”, she says, “We want to be Muslim. How do we do that?”

“Ok. Ok. Hold on, Listen. Don't go anywhere! Let me call Tariq 'cuz he needs to know this. I'll call you right back. Ok? Ok?” “Alright. I'll be here.”

Subhanaanallah. Subhaanallah! I quickly dialed Tariq.

“As salaamu alaikum! You have to come home, like, now! Billie Jean and Kyle wanna make shahadah!”

“Allahu akbar! You serious?! Ok, I'm finishing up here just now, and should be there in about an hour. Tell them we'll come to their house.”

So later that night we witnessed their shahadah and explained to them the five Pillars, the seven points of aqeedah, how to make wudu and how to make salaat.

The next day when we went to check on them, Billie Jean had hooked up a scarf as best she could into a pretty decent >> See ROCKY on Pg 28

....

22 | CIVIL RIGHTS

Civil Rights

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

Muslim-Hating Man Rams Missouri Teen With SUV, Severing His Legs And Killing Him

By Dave Ferguson, Raw Story, 12/5/2014 A 15-year-old boy died on Thursday night in spite of doctors’ efforts to save his life after he was deliberately struck by a car in a collision that severed both of his legs.

According to Kansas City, Missouri’s WDAF-TV, the boy was exiting the Somali Center of Kansas City with a friend when a driver in his 30s rammed his car into them both. The driver reportedly targeted the boys because of their Muslim faith.

The attack took place on Thursday at around 5:30 p.m. as the boys were getting into a parked car.

“It became pretty clear that this was not an accidental crash, there is a considerable amount of evidence that leads us to believe it was intentional,” said Sergeant Bill Mahoney of the Kansas City Police Department.

The second boy was not seriously hurt in the impact, but the deceased 15-yearold’s legs were severed at the scene and

he reportedly lost a tremendous amount of blood. Paramedics rushed him to Children’s Mercy Hospital where a surgical team labored in vain to save him.

threatening them for months, even waving a gun at some attendees and telling them he was going to kill them for being Muslim.

The suspect reportedly rammed the boys and the second car, then tried to flee the scene, but his vehicle was too badly damaged. Police said that he then tried to run away, but was apprehended.

“A month or two ago he came to the Somali mall, two blocks from here.

Things got bad, they started arguing and he pulled a gun,” said Abdul Mohamed, a man who knows the victim, to WDAF.

The boy’s family and other people involved with the Somali Center told WADF that the suspect has been

The victim’s name has not been revealed, but he was reportedly the son of the current head of the Somali Center.

Abercrombie Claims That Job Applicants Must Explain Their Religious Beliefs Before The Law Protects Them Becket Fund files Supreme Court friend-of-the court brief to protect people of faith seeking jobs December 11, 2014 Washington, D.C. – In the closely watched Supreme Court case, EEOC v.

Abercrombie, the Becket Fund filed a brief debunking Abercrombie’s claim that a Muslim job applicant should have explained during her job interview she was wearing a headscarf for religious reasons in order to be protected by antidiscrimination laws.

“Abercrombie’s claim is both an absurd and dangerous precedent for all people of faith seeking employment,” said Eric

Baxter, Senior Counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. “Justice may be blind, but that doesn't mean employers can cover their eyes. A job applicant does not have to bring a ‘Look at me - I am religious’ sign to an interview just to keep her civil rights.”

lower her score so it would appear she was unqualified for the job. Abercrombie is claiming that Samantha was not protected

by Title VII’s prohibition against religious discrimination because she never explicitly stated that her headscarf was worn for religious reasons.

The case deals with the employment application of Samantha Elauf, a Muslim girl who was 17 years old when she applied for a job at Abercrombie & Fitch. She knew the company dress code prohibited hats but had previously hired a Jewish employee who wore a yarmulke, so she never imagined that her headscarf might be an issue. The store manager who interviewed Samantha scored her high enough to be hired, but when the district manager learned about Samantha’s headscarf, he told the store manager to

“The law may not assume that people are irreligious unless proven otherwise, and it should not assume that the workplace is a religion-free zone,” added Baxter.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit on behalf of Samantha and prevailed on her behalf in the district court in July 2011, but then lost on appeal in the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals on October 2013. In August of this year, the United States Supreme Court agreed to hear Samantha’s

case.

The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty is a non-profit, public-interest law firm dedicated to protecting the free expression of all religious traditions. For over 20 years, it has defended clients of all faiths, including: Buddhists, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Muslims, Native Americans, Sikhs, and Zoroastrians. Its recent cases include two major Supreme Court victories: the landmark ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, and the 9-0 ruling in Hosanna-Tabor v. EEOC, which The Wall Street Journal called one of “the most important religious liberty cases in a half century."

For more information, please contact Emily Hardman, Communications Director, at ehardman@becketfund.org

Have you been the subject of civil rights violations, abuse or pressure by law enforcement, or subject to special or alternative treatment because you are Muslim? Were you asked to spy on other Muslims by the FBI ? If your story can be backed up by documents and evidence, the Muslim Link would like to hear from you. Contact the editor at editor@muslimlinkpaper.com ....

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

World Press

WORLD PRESS | 23

US Television Provides Ample Platform for American Torturers, But None to Their Victims

By Glenn Greenwald December 16, 2014 "ICH" - "The Intercept" - Ever since the torture report was released last week, U.S. television outlets have endlessly featured American torturers and torture proponents. But there was one group that was almost never heard from: the victims of their torture, not even the ones recognized by the U.S. Government itself as innocent, not even the family members of the ones they tortured to death. Whether by design (most likely) or effect, this inexcusable omission radically distorts coverage.

Whenever America is forced to confront its heinous acts, the central strategy is to disappear the victims, render them invisible. That’s what robs them of their humanity: it’s the process of dehumanization. That, in turns, is what enables American elites first to support atrocities, and then, when forced to reckon with them, tell themselves that - despite some isolated and well-intentioned bad acts – they are still really good, elevated, noble, admirable people. It’s hardly surprising, then, that a Washington Post/ ABC News poll released this morning found that a large majority of Americans believe torture is justified even when you call it “torture.” Not having to think about actual human victims makes it easy to justify any sort of crime.

That’s the process by which the reliably repellent Tom Friedman seized on the torture report to celebrate America’s unique greatness. “We are a beacon of opportunity and freedom, and also [] these foreigners know in their bones that we do things differently from other big powers in history,” the beloved-by-DC columnist wrote after reading about forced rectal feeding and freezing detainees to death.

For the opinion-making class, even America’s savage torture is proof of its

superiority and inherent Goodness: “this act of self-examination is not only what keeps our society as a whole healthy, it’s what keeps us a model that others want to emulate, partner with and immigrate to.” Friedman, who himself unleashed one of the most (literally) psychotic defenses of the Iraq War, ended his torture discussion by approvingly quoting John McCain on America’s enduring moral superiority: “Even in the worst of times, ‘we are always Americans, and different, stronger, and better than those who would destroy us.’”

whom the U.S. kills or those forced to live under the traumatizing regime of permanently circling death robots. We periodically hear about the vile regimes the U.S. props up for decades, but almost never from the dissidents and activists imprisoned, tortured and killed by those allied tyrants. Most Americans have heard the words “rendition” and “Guantanamo” but could not name a single person victimized by them, let alone recount what happened to them, because they almost never appear on American television.

It’s hardly surprising that a Washington Post/ABC News poll found that a large majority of Americans believe torture is justified even when you call it “torture.” Not having to think about actual human victims makes it easy to justify any sort of crime.

This self-glorifying ritual can be sustained only by completely suppressing America’s victims. If you don’t hear from the human beings who are tortured, it’s easy to pretend nothing truly terrible happened. That’s how the War on Terror generally has been “reported” for 13 years and counting: by completely silencing those whose lives are destroyed or ended

by U.S. crimes. That’s how the illusion gets sustained.

It would be incredibly easy, and incredibly effective, for U.S. television outlets to interview America’s torture victims.

There is certainly no shortage of them.

Groups such as the ACLU, Center for Constitutional Rights, Reprieve, and CAGE UK represent many of them.

Many are incredibly smart and eloquent, and have spent years contemplating what happened to them and navigating the aftermath on their lives.

Thus, we sometimes hear about drones (usually to celebrate the Great Kills) but almost never hear from their victims: the surviving family members of innocents

I’ve written previously about the transformative experience of meeting and hearing directly from the victims of the abuses by your own government. That

human interaction converts an injustice from an abstraction into a deeply felt rage and disgust. That’s precisely why the U.S. media doesn’t air those stories directly from the victims themselves: because it would make it impossible to maintain the pleasing fairy tales about “who we really are.”

Then I was in Canada in October, I met Maher Arar for the second time, went to his home, had breakfast with his wife and two children. In 2002, Maher, a Canadian citizen of Syrian descent who worked as an engineer, was traveling back home to Ottawa when he was abducted by the U.S. Government at JFK Airport, held incommunicado and interrogated for weeks, then “rendered” to Syria where the U.S. arranged to have him brutally tortured by Assad’s regime.

He was kept in a coffin-like cell for 10 months and savagely tortured until even his Syrian captors were convinced that he was completely innocent. He was then uncermoniously released back to his life in Canada as though nothing had happened.

When he sued the U.S. government, subservient U.S. courts refused even to hear his case, accepting the Obama DOJ’s claim that it was too secret to safely adjudicate. The Canadian government released the findings of its investigation, publicly apologized for its role, and paid him $9 million. He used some of the money to start a political newspaper, which has since closed. He became an eloquent opponent of both the U.S. War on Terror and the Assad regime which tortured him as part of it.

But all you have to do is spend five minutes talking to him to see that he has never >> see greenwald Pg 27

....

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

24 | WORLD PRESS

Islam

The Prophet The Messenger of Allah -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- concluded that the best way to approach children is through specific planned disciplinary manners. Based on different aspects; knowledge, experience, practice, patience and understanding. Looking to this crucial period of life, childhood, the Messenger of Allah -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- had drawn for it a scientific and educational course of conduct. It produced successful quick individuals, unique and eloquent leaders and rare genius scholars. Among the pivots of the Prophetic disciplinary course of conduct of child treatment is:Kindness with children and leniency when dealing with them: Children tend to like most the one who is easy with them and treats them as if he is one of them; on the other hand they are repelled from the harsh, angry and frowning person, alert with serious humble one. The Prophet Muhammad (prayer and peace of Allah be upon him) acknowledged the attitude of this age and he treated them the way they liked to be treated. He tried to spread through them by his simplicity, joking and kindness important meanings in disciplining, upbringing and molding a successful personality.

It is narrated that Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “we were praying ‘Isha` prayer with the Messenger of Allah -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- when he prostrated Al-Hassan and Al-Hussain would jump on his back, when he rises with his head he picks them gently from the back and places them (on the floor) kindly, so when he returns (to prostration) they return to what they do, and when he ended his prayer he would put them on his thighs.” [Declared good

by Al-Albani 3325 Al-Silsila Al-Sahiha] A child could not comprehend matters like rights, duties, principles, foundations, morals and meaning of things, he understands it step by step through his life

....

: For the Little Muslims, A Lot of Love

Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam

time. He is mistaken who treats children the same way he treats old people who already now the principles and rules.

That’s why we find a lot of people mistreat children waiting for a child to be quiet, rational mature and dignified while he couldn’t.

A companion among the believing women called Umm Khaled narrates an incident happened to her during her childhood she still remembers, where she says: “I came to the Messenger of Allah - prayers and peace of Allah be upon him - with my father and I had a yellow dress on me. The Messenger of Allah - prayers

them, he smiles to them and be happy to receive them. Even more, the little girl bravely jumps on his back and play while he is laughing without boredom; he even supplicated for her and repeated his supplication three times for her.

In other occasions, he would carry a child –prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- during which the child urinates on his clothes, whereupon he calls for some water and he sprinkles it over his clothes without the need to wash it. This situation recurred where children would urinate over his clothes because of his love for children he carries them a lot, not only

A man came with his daughter to Muhammad - prayers and peace of Allah be upon him knowing that he loves children. The Prophet smiled at them and the little girl bravely jumped on his back and played while the Prophet laughed without boredom; he even supplicated for her and repeated his supplication three times for her. and peace of Allah be upon him - said “Sanah, Sanah” (Sanah means nice in Ethiopian language), she said “then I went to play with the ring of the Prophet whereupon my father stopped me” then the Messenger of Allah prayers and peace of Allah be upon him said “leave her” then he said to me “Wear out and consume, wear out and consume, wear out and consume (he was supplicating for her to wear more clothes and consume)”.”

[Reported by Al-Bukhari 3071] A very distinctive and expressing scene of what we need to say. The man comes along with his daughter to the Muhammad prayer and peace of Allah be upon him knowing that he loves children, also not feeling fed up or bored from meeting

boys but girls also.

His companion Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari says: “I was blessed with a boy, so I came with him to the Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- where he named him Ibrahim, he moistened his lips with a softened date and asked Allah to bless him.” [Agreed upon] The Messenger of Allah used to play with children even in the streets while walking.

Ya’la Ibn Mura says: “I went out with the Prophet -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- for a food invitation. AlHussain son Ali was playing in the street, whereupon the Prophet hurried in front of the people towards him to catch him while Al-Hussain running right and left to escape. Moreover, he used to take Osama

Ibn Zaid and Al-Hassan Ibn Ali and place them on his thighs then he would tightly hug them and say: “O Allah have mercy on the as I have mercy on them.”

[Reported by Al-Bukhari 6003] Abu Qatadah said: “The Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- came in and Umamah Bint Aby Al-‘Aas is on his shoulders, whenever he bows he puts her down and whenever he rises he picks her up.” [Reported by Al-Bukhari 5996] Mahmoud Ibn Al-Rabee’ says: I remember that the Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- blew some water from his mouth on my face when I was a five year old child from a bucket. He still remembers how the Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- blew the water from his mouth on his face as a kind of joke when he was only five years.

[Reported by Al-Bukhari] When he -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- hears a child crying while he’s praying he would lighten his prayer so the mother could finish prayer and carry him, see what he needs so he would stop crying. He said: “I rise up to pray, with the intention to elongate my prayer, thereupon I hear the cry of a child which makes me shorten my prayer disliking to make it hard on his/her mother.”

[Reported by Al-Bukhari 868] He -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- used also to play with children and speak to them about their private matters even if they seem to some people as unimportant. Anas Ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) says: “The Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon himwas best of people in manners, and I had a brother called Abu ‘Umair and I think he was weaned, when he meets him he says to him: “what happened to Al-Nughair” (his friend bird). [Agreed upon] Honoring the child and respecting him: The Messenger Muhammad -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- he was keen

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015 when dealing with children to respect their personalities and selves, and keenness to transfer to them the best of understanding in its easiest form and means. Moreover, he wouldn’t scold them along the line a child narrates to us an incident happened with the Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- this child is Abdullah Ibn ‘Amer, he says: “My mother called me once when the Messenger of Allah -prayer and peace of Allah be upon himwas in our house, she said: “Hey, come here I will give you something”, then the Messenger -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- commented saying: “what did you want to give him”, She replied “I will give him dates”, then the Messenger -prayer and peace of Allah be upon himsaid: “If you did not give him anything (upon calling him) it would be recorded on you as a lie.” [Reported by Abu Dawûd 4991 and declared good by Al-Albani] So he -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- warns her against lying to the boy or belittle his feelings, even if she calls him to give him something, but she won’t.

Also, when the Prophet -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- sees a child that needs to be disciplined then he will deal with them tenderly and kindly without shouting at them or scolding them. Omar Ibn Aby Salamah: “I was a little boy

Combat Negative Thinking To be a productive, dynamic Muslim, it is extremely important that we inculcate a mindset of positivity. A mindset of positivity leads to a productivity and eventually leads to creating a productive life. If the mindset of positivity is missing, and we are negative and self loathing, and have no hope, do you ever think we would have the enthusiasm to do things and be productive?

I decided to write on negative self-talk, since many people complain that they have started being organized etc, only

sitting on the Prophet’s -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- lap and my hand is all over the plate, then the Messenger of Allah -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- said to me: “O boy, say ‘Bismillah’ (In the name of Allah), eat with your right hand and eat from what’s in front of you.”

[Agreed upon] The Prophet -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- tried to raise children through his teachings and conduct on real manhood and sense of honor since an early age. He used to give them ascending doses from these attributes through recurrent and dispersed situation, for instance he would settle Abdullah Ibn Abas and Abdullah Ibn Omar in his gathering with his companions to learn and mature. Abdullah Ibn Omar narrates saying: “We were at the Prophet’s house -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him-, he got out palm pith, the he said: “Among the trees a tree that is like a Muslim (what is it)?” I wanted to say the palm tree, but I was the youngest among them all so I kept quiet. The Prophet -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- said “It is the palm tree”.” [Agreed upon] He also taught Abdullah Ibn ‘Abass when he was riding behind him on his mount great meanings through simple words, he prayer and peace of Allah be upon him

to fail in following through. And some people say that they start off with being so productive, only to get down and out again. The root of this problem is negative self talk.

If you're like most people, you engage in negative self talk quiet a bit. In fact, it happens a whole lot more than you realize. Negative talk puts limitations on your life, it drains your energy, and instead of wanting to feel productive, you give up feeling despondent.

One of the greatest secrets to being a productive person is letting go of your negative self-talk, and switching to positivity. Behind that door of negativity, there is a brighter, happier, productive life waiting for you.

Where does the negative thinking come from?

First and foremost, negative talk comes from Shaytaan. He is your enemy, though you may not believe it - shaytaan makes you procrastinate and detours you from

ISLAM | 25 told him: “O boy, I will teach you some words, Guard Allah (carry out his orders) and he will guard you….etc” Till the end of the Hadith. [Reported by At-Tirmidhi 2516 and authenticated by Al-Albani] The Prophet -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- went the extra mile when he respected children in a community that doesn’t give children much of attention. One of them would sit on his right, another would be admitted before the elders of people etc….Sahl Ibn Sa’d says: “The Messenger of Allah -prayer and peace of Allah be upon him- had something to drink, so he drank and there was a boy on his right and elders on his left so he asks the Boy “Do you give me permission to give them?” the boy replies, “No, by Allah, I wouldn’t give my share from you to anyone”.” [Agreed upon] The Prophet - prayer and peace of Allah be upon him respected both matters, the right of the child of permission, and the right of the elders where he asked the boy to disclaim his right for them, but when the child insisted not, he didn’t admonish the kid nor he scolded him, rather he gave him his right.

Protecting the child’s familial and social rights: The Messenger prayer and peace of your mission. He stalls you, puts you off from your mission, and makes you find reasons for why you can't do a certain task and finds every way to sabotage you.

Secondly, being in judging mode all the time is where negative talks stem from.

We are always judging ourselves, others, those we know personally and those we don't. We judge everyone, and in turn continuously judge and criticize ourselves (e.g., 'I'm not good enough, I'll never succeed, I hate my life').

It eventually becomes an unconscious habit...that we don’t realize we are doing.

Enough is enough!

There are wonderful things you want to do with your life, but the negativeness in your mind is deeply rooted in to you and holding you back. The good news is you have the power to switch to a positive mindset! And it is possible and not so difficult!

1) Make Du'aa

Allah be upon him observed the right of a new born in his known, confirmed and testified on lineage by a declared authentic marriage, while he forbade bearing children from relationships out of wedlock, to protect them from future problems that may arise, moreover, purifying the society from fornication, corruption and mix in lineages.

He stressed -prayers and peace of Allah be upon him- on the right of the child upon his father to choose for him a mother with a good character, his right upon him to choose a good name that isn’t odd or mocked, his right for natural breast feeding, his right to grow in a balanced environment and relatives surrounding him, his right of being brought up on faithful basics, his right to be guarded against sexual and homosexual violation and being taken advantage of, enslaved and being a subject of trade.

Also the Message of Prophet Muhammad -prayers and peace of Allah be upon himemphasized on the right of the child in inheritance and will, also stressed greatly on the right of an orphan in care and protecting, and his money to be preserved, and the society to protect him, be kind to him, take care of him and to secure fully.

[Source: www.islamway.net]

Ask Allaah to protect you from shaytaan.

The Prophet Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam frequently made the following supplication: The Prophet Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam used to say: "O Allaah!

I seek refuge with You from worry and grief, from incapacity and laziness, from cowardice and miserliness, from being heavily in debt and from being overpowered by (other) men." (Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree) 2) Have a soft compassionate approach.

We need to develop and cultivate a mindset of compassion, which encourages us and motivates us to do more. Have compassion on ourselves instead of continuously criticizing and harshly judging ourselves and others. Take note that I am not suggesting a mindset that allows us to be too easy on ourselves and allows us to slack. That is far from my message and that is from Shaytaan. I am suggesting a mindset of compassion, >> See combat Pg 28

....

26 |

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

ISLAM

Salaah times for December 19th - January 15th, 2015 Day

Date

Hijri

Fajr

Sunrise

Dhuhr

Asr

Maghrib

Isha

Fri

Dec 19

27/2

6:03

7:22

12:06

2:31

4:49

6:09

20

28/2

6:03

7:22

12:06

2:32

4:49

6:09

Sat

If a person had a stream outside his door and he bathed in it five times a day, do you think he would have any filth left on him?” The people said, “No filth would remain on him whatsoever.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said, “That is like the fi ve daily prayers: Allah wipes away the sins by them.”

---Hadith in Sahih al Bukhari and Muslim

Prayer times generated from www.islamicfinder.com for the WASHINGTON, DC area.

....

Sun

21

29/2

6:04

7:23

12:07

2:32

4:50

6:10

Mon

22

30/2

6:04

7:23

12:07

2:33

4:50

6:10

Tue

23

1/3

6:05

7:24

12:08

2:33

4:51

6:11

Wed

24

2/3

6:05

7:24

12:08

2:34

4:51

6:11

Thu

25

3/3

6:06

7:24

12:09

2:34

4:52

6:12

Fri

26

4/3

6:06

7:25

12:09

2:35

4:53

6:12

Sat

27

5/3

6:06

7:25

12:10

2:36

4:53

6:13

Sun

28

6/3

6:07

7:25

12:10

2:36

4:54

6:14

Mon

29

7/3

6:07

7:26

12:11

2:37

4:55

6:14

Tue

30

8/3

6:07

7:26

12:11

2:38

4:56

6:15

Wed

31

9/3

6:07

7:26

12:11

2:38

4:56

6:15

Thu

Jan 1

10/3

6:07

7:26

12:12

2:38

4:56

6:16

Fri

2

11/3

6:08

7:26

12:13

2:40

4:58

6:17

Sat

3

12/3

6:08

7:26

12:13

2:41

4:59

6:18

Sun

4

13/3

6:08

7:27

12:13

2:42

5:00

6:19

Mon

5

14/3

6:08

7:27

12:14

2:42

5:01

6:20

Tue

6

15/3

6:08

7:27

12:14

2:43

5:01

6:21

Wed

7

16/3

6:08

7:26

12:15

2:44

5:02

6:21

Thu

8

17/3

6:08

7:26

12:15

2:45

5:03

6:22

Fri

9

18/3

6:08

7:26

12:16

2:46

5:04

6:23

Sat

10

19/3

6:08

7:26

12:16

2:47

5:05

6:24

Sun

11

20/3

6:08

7:26

12:16

2:48

5:06

6:25

Mon

12

21/3

6:08

7:26

12:17

2:49

5:07

6:26

Tue

13

22/3

6:08

7:25

12:17

2:50

5:08

6:27

Wed

14

23/3

6:08

7:25

12:17

2:50

5:08

6:27

Thu

15

24/3

6:08

7:25

12:18

2:51

5:09

6:28

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015 greenwald

>> continued from pg 23

really recovered from being snatched from his own life and savagely tortured at the behest of the U.S. Government that still holds itself out as the Leader of the Free World. Part of him is still back in the torture chamber in Syria, and likely always will be.

Nobody could listen to Maher Arar speak and feel anything but disgust and outrage toward the U.S. Government – not just the Bush administration which kidnapped him and sent him to be tortured, but the Obama administration which protected them and blocked him from receiving justice, and the American media that turned a blind eye toward it, and the majority of the American public that supports this. But that’s exactly why we don’t hear from him: he isn’t on CNN or Meet the Press or Morning Joe to make clear what Michael Hayden and John Yoo really did and what the U.S. government under a Democratic president continues to shield.

There are hundreds if not thousands of

Torture Is Who We Are A country, like a person, is what it does.

By PETER BEINART, The Atlantic, 12/11/2014 Torture, declared President Obama this week, in response to the newly released Senate report on CIA interrogation, is “contrary to who we are.” Maine Senator Angus King added that, “This is not America. This is not who we are.”

According to Kentucky Congressman John Yarmuth, “We are better than this.”

No, actually, we’re not. There’s something bizarre about responding to a 600page document detailing systematic U.S. government torture by declaring that the real America—the one with good values—does not torture. It’s exoneration masquerading as outrage.

Imagine someone beating you up and then, when confronted with the evidence, declaring that “I’m not really like that” or “that wasn’t the real me.” Your response is likely to be some variant of: “It sure as

Maher Arars the U.S. media could easily and powerfully interview. McClatchy this week detailed the story of Khalid al Masri, a German citizen whom the U.S. Government abducted in Macedonia, tortured, and then dumped on a road when they decided he wasn’t guilty of anything (US courts also refused to hear his case on secrecy grounds). The detainees held without charges, tortured, and then unceremoniously released from Guantanamo and Bagram are rarely if ever heard from on U.S. television, even when the U.S. Government is forced to admit that they were guilty of nothing.

This is not to say that merely putting these victims on television would fundamentally change how these issues are perceived. Many Americans would look at the largely non-white and foreign faces recounting their abuses, or take note of their demonized religion and ethnicity, and react for that reason with indifference or even support for what was done to them.

CONTINUED | 27 Fareed Zakaria this week interviewed former Guantanamo detainee (and current detainee rights advocate) Moazzem Begg, Zakaria demanded that Begg condemn ISIS even though Begg kept explaining that he was “abused cruelly, inhumanely and degradingly” by the U.S. Government, that “pictures of my children are waved in front of me while I’m being beaten and tortured and abused by people who claimed to be the bastions of freedom and democracy and human rights,” and that “whatever the situation was, the Taliban and the ISIS, they didn’t torture me. They didn’t put me into dungeons. They didn’t beat me.

They didn’t threaten to, you know, abuse my family. They didn’t do that to me. So I can only talk to my experience.”

And one could easily imagine such interviews quickly degenerating into a blame-the-victim spectacle. When

What this glaring omission in coverage does more than anything else is conclusively expose the utter fraud of the U.S. media’s claims to “objectivity” and “neutrality.” Outlets like The Washington Post and NPR still justify their refusal to call these torture tactics “torture” by invoking precepts of “neutrality”: we have to show all views, we can’t take sides, etc.

hell seemed like you when your fist was slamming into my nose.” A country, like a person, is what it does.

the “real America.” The real America includes them both. Morally, we contain multitudes.

The implication of the statements by Obama, King, and Yarmuth is that there is an essential, virtuous America whose purity the CIA defiled. But that’s silly. Aliens did not invade the United States on 9/11. In times of fear, war, and stress, Americans have always done things like this. In the 19th century, American slavery relied on torture.

At the turn of the 20th, when America began assembling its empire overseas, the U.S. army waterboarded Filipinos during the Spanish-American War. As part of the Phoenix Program, an effort to gain intelligence during the Vietnam War, CIA-trained interrogators delivered electric shocks to the genitals of some Vietnamese communists, and raped, starved, and beat others.

Why does this matter? Because when you claim that the United States is intrinsically moral, and torture therefore represents an aberration, you undermine the fight against such practices. There is no innate moral sense that pushes America’s leaders to respect human rights. To the contrary, the U.S. political system is based on the recognition that since Americans, like all other human beings, are sinful creatures, and will abuse power, the best way to limit that abuse is to ensure that power is divided and balanced. In the 20th century, when American presidents helped establish first the League of Nations and then the United Nations, they recognized that—to a far more limited degree—the United States should submit to international laws and institutions that checked its power overseas. This stemmed in part from the belief that only by binding itself in systems of domestic and international law could the United States act differently from the totalitarian empires it opposed. The most dangerous aspect of totalitarianism, wrote Arthur Schlesinger in The Vital Center, was its attempt “to liquidate the tragic sense which gave man a sense of

America has tortured throughout its history. And every time it has, some Americans have justified the brutality as necessary to protect the country from a savage enemy. Others have called it counterproductive and immoral. At different moments, the balance of power between these two groups shifts. But neither side in these debates speaks for

But that’s pure deceit. They don’t show all sides. They systematically and quite deliberately exclude the victims of the very policies of the U.S. Government they pretend to cover. And they do that because including those victims would be too informative, would provide too much information, would be too enlightening. It would, for many people, shatter the myths of American Goodness and the conceit that even when Americans do heinous things, they do it with Goodness and Freedom in their hearts, with a guaranteed and permanent status as superior. At the very least, it would make it impossible for many people to deny to themselves the utter savagery and sadism carried out in their names.

Keeping those victims silenced and invisible is the biggest favor the U.S. television media could do for the government over which they claim to act as watchdogs. So that’s what they do: dutifully, eagerly and with very rare exception.

Email the author: glenn.greenwald@ theintercept.com

his limitations.”

Being a successful American politician today requires declaring that America is different, blessed, exceptional.

Thus, when other countries torture, it reflects their basic character. When we torture, it violates ours. But the wisest American thinkers have found a way to reconcile this need to feel special with the recognition that, as human beings, Americans are just as fallen as everyone else. In the mid-20th century, men like Schlesinger and Reinhold Niebuhr argued that, paradoxically, the more Americans recognized their sinfulness, and restrained it within systems of law, the more America would prove its superiority over those totalitarian systems that refused such restraints.

After 9/11, while George W. Bush was announcing that God had deputized America to spread liberty around the world, his government was shredding the domestic and international restraints against torture built up over decades, and injecting food into inmates’ rectums.

Those actions were not “contrary to who we are.” They were a manifestation of who we are. And the more we acknowledge that, the better our chances of becoming something different in the years to come.

....

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

28 | CONTINUED COMBAT

>> continued from pg 25

where if we fail, we pick ourselves up, and try again. A mindset where we honestly scan our lives, see our faults and make commitments to improve and follow through with improving even when we stumble and make mistakes. A mindset where we talk positively to ourselves and strive to be better. We should never let our negativeness, or anybody else's negativeness stop our worthy purpose and affect our lives. Having this compassion, and hope, sets the wheels in motion to a productive life.

A small child who becomes frustrated while trying to learn, is encouraged with kind words, encouragement and compassion. Critically judging and picking on the child, would stifle his ability to learn, yet by being compassionate and encouraging, he blossoms and becomes more enthusiastic and productive. This is the type of gentleness and compassion rocky

>> continued from pg 21

hijab, and you could tell that Kyle hadn't shaved. They proudly informed us that they had chosen Abdia and Basheer as their new names. The noor beamed out of them like neon signs. We invited them to try homesteading again, this time on our property. Insha Allah, they intend to begin building their cabins in the spring.

This is what community, jamat, is all about, and to finally get some of it is like being told that your Vip-executivepremium-platinum-10 star-hajj package has been paid for anonymously, AND you're being given spending faloose, AND can you be ready to leave in four days?! There's so much barakaat in having other Muslims around. In a hadith found in Imam Malik's Muwatta it is mentioned that Abu Idris Al Khawlani (radiallahu anhu) entered the Damascus

you should exercise on yourself and others. Give yourself the highest praise for the smallest bit of progress you have made.

As you integrate this new habit in your life, you will see amazing changes that happen. The less you judge others, the less you will judge yourself.

You need to stop being negative and fuel your life with a compassionate persistence. You need to give up negative self talk today, right now. Get off that coach, pick yourself up, your life is waiting. Have hope in Allaah, have hope in yourself and switch to a positive, proactive mindset. Then Allaah will empower you to reach your goals and help you create for yourself a productive dynamic life.

Remember life is a blank canvas, you have the choice to paint it with beautiful, bright colors; or dead,dull colors. Whatever it is my dear brother/sister, you have the choice! [Source: idealmuslimah.com]

masjid and found Mu'adh Ibn Jabal (radiallahu anhu) praying. He waited until Mu'adh was finished, then greeted him and said, “By Allah, I love you for Allah.” Mu'adh said, “By Allah?” Abu Idris said, “By Allah.” Mu'adh said, “By Allah?” Abu Idris answered, “By Allah.”

Mu'adh again asked, “By Allah?” And Abu Idris confirmed, “By Allah.” Mu'adh then took Abu Idris by the upper part of his cloak and pulled him to him and said, “Rejoice! I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa salam) say, “Allah the Blessed and Exalted said, “My love is obliged for those who love each other in Me, and those who sit with each other in Me, and those who visit each other in Me, and those who give each other generously in Me.” Choppin' wood, haulin' water, buildin' cabins. Little Rocky Mountain ummah growin' strong.

And it is He who spread the earth and placed therein firmly set mountains and rivers; and from all of the fruits He made therein two mates; He causes the night to cover the day.

Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.

....

Qur'an: 13:3

Upcoming Events In Your Area Parenting Workshop Saturday, December 20 2014 ICCL and ICNA Sisters’ Wing Present: Nurturing Our Future, Winter 2014 Tarbiyyah Workshop: Essentials on Parenting the Muslim Youth. The Goal of this workshop is to provide Mothers of Teens and Preteens the Basic Tools of Effective Parenting In today's world of High-Tech Gadgets, Social Media and Fast Foods. Staring after Dhuhr at12:30PM. Please join us and get advice and useful tips from the experts. $5.00 donation will be appreciated. Sisters only event. Snacks will be served.

Location: ICCL Laurel Masjid, 7306 Contee Road, Laurel, MD 20707 Contact: Space is limited, please email icnasisters.md@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Center of Maryland Winter Fundraising Event Saturday, December 20 2014 Come join us in our quest to build a holy sanctuary for Muslims to utilize and enjoy for generations to come. Starts 7PM Sharp. If you are unable to attend the event, donate online at https://icomd.org/app/cc/ccp_fundsselection.asp or send your check by mail.

Location: University of Maryland at Shady Grove, 9360 Gudelsky Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Contact: For more information, please see: http://www. icomd.org/masterplan/index.asp.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Healthy Al-Huda Cookbook: Meet, Greet, Talk & Eat Saturday, December 20 2014, 1:00pm - 4:00pm The Dar-us-Salaam/Al-Huda School and the Maryland Center of Health Equity graciously welcomes parents and students to attend the Healthy Al-Huda Cookbook: Meet, Greet, Talk & Eat. Talk about future Healthy Al-Huda 2020 school initiatives, Eat dishes from the upcoming Healthy Al-Huda Cookbook.

The notification and RSVP deadline is 12/18/14. Location: Al-Huda School, 5301 Edgewood Road, College Park, MD 20740 Contact: shashim@darussalaam.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Fifth Call Saturday, December 20 2014, 6:00pm - 9:00pm The Fifth Call: A Community Dinner for a Women's Shelter in Northern VA. Guest Speakers: Imam Rafiq Mahdi, Dr Mohammed Hassan Ph.D. Admission is free. Babysitting Available. ICNA Relief DMV in partnership with GMU MSA. Location: Dunya Restaurant (Located Across Landmark Mall), 5951 Stevenson Ave, Alexandria, VA Contact: Mohamed - dmv@icnarelief.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ISG Grand Opening Celebration and Fundraiser Saturday, 6 PM, December 27 2014 The Islamic Society of Germantown, Maryland, invites all the Brothers and Sisters to join us in the ISG Grand Opening celebration and the end of year fundraiser. We are currently holding all the salahs at the Masjid.

Please help us to raise money for the house of Allah. Come with your family and friends and enjoy the celebration and the delicious dinner.

Location: ISG Masjid, 19825 Blunt Road, Germantown, MD 20876

OBITS | 29

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

Request For Duaa To Allah We Belong, and to Him is Our Return

“Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and good, and to Us you will be returned.” (Surah Al-Anbiya:35)” 11-23-2014 Sr. Shaheen Matin has passed away. She is the wife of late Shaikh Matin, the founder of the La Plata masjid. Her janaza prayer was on November 23, 2014 in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

May Allah (swt) forgive her and grant her Paradise and accept all the many years of service that she and her late husband did for the La Plata masjid and the community. (Source: Dar-us-Salaam) 11-24-2014 Br Daren Wright has passed away. Salat-ul-Janaza was on November 24, 2014 in Baltimore, Maryland. We Ask Allah (SWT) to shower him with His mercy, compassion and forgiveness, and to grant him the highest rank in paradise, and give his family support and patience during these difficult times. (Source: Masjid Al-Falaah) 11-26-2014 Mohammad Yasin Chaudhery, father of Khuram Yasin, has passed away. Salaat ul Janazah was on November 26, 2014 in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

May Allah accept his good deeds, forgive his shortcomings and enter him into Jannat ul Firdaus, Aameen. (Source: ICM) 11-27-2014 We are saddened to inform you that Dr. Shamsul Islam Khan, father of Imam Safi Khan and one of the founding members of the MCC, completed his journey on this earth. Dr.

Khan was a Professor of Biology and Genetics in the University of Maryland system. He authored many books about his specialty and about Islam. He also served as Principal of Sunday School at the Islamic Center, Washington D.C. Dr. Khan was a major participant in establishing the MCC and an ardent supporter.

He is survived by three sons and his wife, Sister Qamar Khan. Funeral services were on November 27, 2014 in College Park, Maryland. May Allah swt bless him and grant him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdaus. May Allah swt grant the family sabr. Ameen.

(Source: MCC) 11-27-2014 It is with very heavy and sad heart I inform you that Sr. Zahida Abbasi, mother of Br. Ahsen and Sr. Sarwat Abbasi (Active and committed volunteers of ADAMS Ashburn) has returned to Allah (swt). Janazah prayer was on November 28, 2014 in Sterling, Virginia. May Allah (swt) forgive all her sins, widen her grave, shower HIS mercy on her and enter her into the highest place in Jennah. May Allah (swt) give sabr to bear the loss of their loving mother. (Source: E. Baig) 11-28-2014 Br. Mohammed Ahsan Ullah has returned to Allah (swt). Janazah prayer was on November 29, 2014 in Sterling, Virginia. May Allah (swt) forgive all

his sins, widen his grave, shower HIS mercy on him and enter him into the highest place in Jennah, May Allah (swt) give sabr to his family to bear the great loss.

(Source: E. Baig) 12-2-2014 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Sr. Mona Khaled, wife of Dr. Hani Seoudi and the mother of three teenagers. Janazah prayer was on December 3, 2014 in Sterling, Virginia. May Allah (swt) forgive all her sins, Allah (swt) shower His mercy and love upon her and grant her the highest place in jannatul Firdous - Aameen. May Allah (swt) gives them sabr to bear the loss of wonderful wife and a very loving mother. Aameen. (Source: E. Baig) 12-9-2014 We are saddened to inform you that Mr. Faiz Ahmed Chowdhury, husband of Dr. Sadia Chowdhury, has passed away.

Mr. Chowdhury left behind two adult children - son Adnan and daughter Ashna and his widow Dr. Sadia Chowdhury. His janaza prayer was on December 10, 2014 in Silver Spring, Maryland.

(Source: MCC) 12-11-2014 The Prince George's Muslim Association extends sincere condolences to our dedicated community member, Brother Muhammad Barrie, and Sister Fatima Barrie and family, on the passing of their beloved daughter, Amnata Jalloh. The Janazah Salat for Sister Amnata Jalloh was on December 12, 2014 in Lanham, Maryland. May Allah SWT admit her to Jannatul Firdaus, and may HE grant the family patience and ease. (Source: PGMA)

12-12-2014 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Br. Mohammed Yassin AbuTaa, father of Br. Nedal AbuTaa. Janazah prayer was on December 12, 2014 in Sterling, Virginia. May Allah (swt) forgive all his sins, Allah (swt) shower His mercy and love upon him and grant him the highest place in jannatul Firdous - Aameen. Please keep him and his family in your duas at this difficult time, May Allah (swt) gives them sabr to bear the loss - Aameen. (Source: E. Baig) 12-15-2014 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of sister Zubaida Syed, the mother of our dear brother Karamat Syed. May Allah swt forgive her, have mercy on her, and grant her jannatul firdous.

(Source: ICCL) 12-16-2014 It is with great sadness that we share with you the passing of our beloved uncle, father and brother, Naeem Amerah in Florida. He was the brother to Um Yahya (Omaima Fouz), Esmat and Esam Amerah, the father of Emann Amerah the uncle to many nieces and nephews and a loyal friend to many. Naeem was a pillar of our Muslim community in its very early days both in Dar Al Hijrah and the Herndon community. He is well known for his generosity, kindness and compassion. He was a gentle soul who would give you the shirt off of his back if you asked. We will truly miss his smiles, his laughter but mostly his bear hugs. May Allah grant him the highest of the heavens and may he shower his mercy upon him. (Source: M. Fouz)

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MASJID LISTING

30 |

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

Do you have additions, changes, or corrections to the event listings in the Muslim Link? Email us at events@muslimlinkpaper.com, or call us at 301-982-1020. Listing is organized by name of city.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

--------------------------------------------------------------------------All Muslim Brothers Association 3900 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302 Tel: 703-647-0515 Jumma Prayer Only - 1:15 P.m --------------------------------------------------------------------------Icna VA Center: 2913 Woodlawn Trail, Alexandria, VA 22306.

Tel: 703-660-1255 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Idara Dawat-o-irshad: 4803 VAlley St, Alexandria, VA 22312 Tel: 703-256-8622 | ww.irshad.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Mustafa Center: 6844 Braddock Rd., Annandale, VA 22003 Tel: 703-658-7134 www.mustafacenter.org E-mail: Mustafacenter@gmail.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Baitul Mukarram: 2116 S Nelson St., Arlington, VA, 22204, Tel: 703-778-1550 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Zakaria Masjid 26243 Gum Spring Road, Chantilly, VA 20152, USA

Tel: 571-969-2123|www.ziacademy.org

E-mail: Contact@ziacademy.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Badr Community Center Of Dumfries: 17794 Main Street, Dumfries, VA 22026 Tel: 703-554-7983 www.bccd.org E-mail: Info@bccd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar Ul-ghuraba (Masjid Ur Rahmah): 155 Baker St., Emporia, VA 23487 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar Al Hijrah: 3159 Rowe St., Falls Church, VA 22044, Tel: 703-536-1030 | www.hijrah.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Moroccan American community Organization Center 5613 Lessaburg Pike,#1 Falls Church,Va 22041 Info@macous.org | www.macous.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Center Of Northern VA Trust (Icnvt): 4420 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax, VA, 22030 Tel: 703-591-0999 www.icnvt.org | E-mail: Info@icnvt.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar Al-noor (Muslim Assoc. Of VA): 5404 Hoadly Rd., Manassas, VA 20112, Tel: 703-580-0808 Fax: 703-221-8513 www.daralnoor.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Manassas Mosque: 12950 Center Entrance Ct, Manassas, VA Tel: 703-257-5537 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Center Of Virginia: 1241 Buford Rd., Richmond, VA 23235 Tel: 804-320-7333 www.icva1.com

....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Greater Richmond (Isgr): 6324 Rigsby Road, Richamond, VA 23226 Tel: 804-673-4177 | www.isgr.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al Rahman: 1305 Hull St., Richmond, VA 23224 Tel: 804-232-7640 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjidullah Of Richmond: 211 North Ave., Richmond, VA 23222 Tel: 804-321-8864/804-647-4297 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar-ul Huda: 6666 Commerce St., Springfield, VA 22150, Tel: 703-922-0111 | www.darulhuda.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Foundation of America: 6606 Electronic Drive, Springfield, VA 22151 Tel: 703-914-4982 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Noor: 8608 Pohick Rd, Springfield, VA 22153 Tel: 703-451-7615 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Adams Center: 46903 Sugarland Rd, Sterling,VA 20164, Tel: 703-433-1325 www.adamscenter.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Heritage Center (Ihc): 262 A-3 Cedar Ln., Vienna, VA 22180 Tel: 703-206-9056 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-Falah 14918 Jefferson Davis Hwy Woodbridge, VA 22191 Tel: 703-490-2220|masjidal-falah.com masjidalfalah@verizon.net ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

WASHINGTON D.C.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------Ivy City Masjid: 2001 Galludet St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 Tel: 202-904-9668 E-mail: masjidivycity@yahoo.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Muhammad: 1519 4th St. NW, Washington D.C. 20001 Tel: 202-483-8832 www.masjidmuhammad.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------The Islamic Center: 2551 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington D.C. 20008 Tel: 202-332-8343 www.theislamiccenter.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------First Hijra Muslim Comm. Center: 4324 Georgia Ave, NW Washington, D.C. 20011 www.firsthijrah.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-islam: 4603 Benning Rd., SE, Washington, D.C. 20019 E-mail: Imammusa@hotmail.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------New Africa Islamic Community Center of Washington. DC.

1628 Good Hope Road, SE Washington, DC. 20020 202.678-1881 | www.naiccdc.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Muslim Society Of Washington, D.C.: Howard Center, Room 805 (Above Hu Bookstore) Tel: 202-328-3236 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARYLAND

--------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Annapolis (Isa): 2635 Riva Rd. Suite 110, Annapolis, MD 21401 Tel: 410-266-6660 www.isamd.org Email: Info@islamannapolis.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Bait-Allah Masjid of Baltimore Inc 200 S. Calhoun Street Baltimore, MD 21223 Imam’s cell: 571-721-9938 email: baitallahmasjid@yahoo.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Bilal Dawah Center, Inc: 1910 Frederick Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21223 Tel: 410-945-1515 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar ul Uloom: 6334 Dogwoood Rd, Baltimore, MD 21207, Tel: 410-493-0785 Email: Darululoommd@aol.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Ul-haq: 514 Islamic Way (Wilson St. ), Baltimore, MD 21217 Tel: 410-728-1363 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-mumineen: 2642 Harford Rd., Baltimore, MD 21218 Tel: 410-467-8798 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Jamaat Al-Muslimeen: 4624 York Rd., Baltimore, MD 21212 Tel: 443-438-7986 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-rahmah/isb: 6631 Johnnycake Rd., Baltimore, MD 21244 Tel: 410-747-4869 | www.isb.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid As Saffat: 1335 W. North Ave., Baltimore, MD 21217 Tel: 410-669-0655 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Fatima 1928 Powers Lane Catonsville MD, 21228 Phone: 410 800 4880 Email: info@masjidfatima.com Website: www.masjidfatima.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Irhsca (Islamic Research And Hum. Services Center Of America): 1 Chambers Ave, Capitol Heights, MD Tel: 301-324-5040 www.irhsca.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Southern Pg County (Isspgc): P O Box 99, Clinton, MD 20735 5410 Indian Head Hwy, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 Tel: 240 603 4618 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dar-us-Salaam: 5301 Edgewood Rd., College Park, MD 20740, Tel: 301-982-9848 www.duscommunity.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Easton 126 Port Street Unit # 1 Easton, MD 21601 Tel: 410-829 7924 islamicsocietyofeastonmd.yolasite.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Zamzam 1510 Lynch Road, Dundalk, MD 21222 Tel: 410-284-2840 www.masjidzamzam.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Dar al-Taqwa: 10740 Rte. 108, Ellicott City, MD 21042, Tel: 410-997-5711 www.taqwa.net --------------------------------------------------------------------------Maryum Islamic Center (MIC) 3280 Pine Orchard Lane Suite A Ellicott City, MD 21042 Tel: 443-574-5188 www.maryumcenter.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-Hikmah: 11064 Livingston Road Unit L (101) Ft. Washington, MD 20744, Tel: 301 292-9009 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Frederick (Isf): 1250 Key Parkway, Frederick, MD 21702 Tel: 301-682-6090 www.isfmd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Center Of Maryland (Icm): 19411 Woodfield Rd. Gaithersburg, MD 20879 Tel:301-840-9440 www.icomd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Makkah Learning Center (Mlc): 814 Brandy Farms Ln., Gambrills, MD 21054 Tel: 410-721-5880 www.isamd.org Email: Info@mlcmd.org--------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of Germantown (Isg): 19900 Brandermill Rd., Germantown, MD 20876 Tel: 240-277-7758 | www.isgtown.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Ibn Taymiyyah: 8000 Mlk Highway, Glenarden MD Tel: 301-322-8105 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society of Western Maryland: 2036 Day Rd., Hagerstown, MD 21740 Tel: 301-797-0922 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Southern Maryland Islamic Center (Smic): 1046 Solomons Island Rd, Huntingtown, MD, 20639 Tel: 410-535-0000 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Avondale Islamic Center: 4637 Eastern Ave., Hyattsville, MD, 20782 Tel: 301-779-9292

--------------------------------------------------------------------------Prince Georges Muslim Assoc.(Pgma): 9150 Lanham Severn Rd., Lanham, MD, 20706, Tel: 301-459-4942 www.pgmamd.org Imam’s Office: 301-459-1441 E-mail: Imam@pgmamd.org.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------Turkish American Community Center 9704 Good Luck Rd, Lanham, MD 20706 Tel: 301-459-9589 | www.taccenter.org

--------------------------------------------------------------------------La Plata Masjid: 111 Howard Street, La Plata, MD 20646 Tel: 301-609-8769 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Com. Center Of Laurel (ICCL): 7306 Contee Rd., Laurel, MD 20707 Tel: 301-317-4584 | www.icclmd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-Ghurabaa: 8220 Washington St., South Laurel, MD 20724.

Tel: 301-604-3295 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Center Of Lexington Park 22583 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20619 Tel: 240-538-7839 or 561-414-0994 www.iclpmd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Community Center of Potomac 10601River Road, Potomac MD 20854 www.iccpmd.com | 301-983-0383 E-mail: info@iccpmd.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Randallstown Islamic Center 9019 Marcella Ave. Randallstown, MD 21133 Tel: 410-971-4018 www.ricbaltimore.org E-mail: Info@ricbaltimore.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society Of The Washington Area (Iswa): 2701 Briggs Chaney Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20904 Tel: 301-879-0930 | www.iswamd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Education Society of Maryland 11504 Veirs Mills Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902 Tel: 301- 933-3838 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Muslim Community Center (MCC): 15200 New Hampshire Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20905 Tel: 301-384-3454 | www.mccmd.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------IMAAM Center (Indonesian Muslim Association of America): 9100 Georgia Ave Silver Spring, MD 20910 Tel: 301-588-0693 | www.imaam.org Email: infoimaam@gmail.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid An-nur: 5418 Ebenezer Road, White Marsh, MD 21162 Tel: 410-663-9637 Fax: 410-663-9817 --------------------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-inshirah: 7832 Fairbrook Road, Windsor Mill, MD 21244 Tel: 410-298-2977

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

Editor-in-Chief: Minhaj Hasan Office Manager: Stephanie Benmoha Layout: Fadlullah Firman Staff Writers: Urooj Fatima Yaman Shalabi Fatimah Waseem Hena Zuberi Sharia Advisors: Sheikh Salah as-Sawi Imam Safi Khan The Muslim Link (TML) is published once a month on Fridays and distributed throughout the Washington, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia Metropolitan Areas. TML is a non-profit publication and is based at Dar-us-Salaam in College Park, Maryland, USA. Staff and contributors are not necessarily affiliated with Dar-us-Salaam.

CONTINUED| 31

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Muslim Candidate Should Have Been Clear that He Supports Gay Marriage Assalamu'alykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.

I'm writing with reference to the article "Muslim State Delegate Elected for Baltimore Co" November 21st issue of the Muslim Link. The concern I have as a Muslim is how can Muslims support a candidate who says we will vote "yes for gay marriage" according to answers he gave to the Baltimore Sun editorial board.‎ Dr. Jalisi campaigned heavily in the Muslim community for financial and other support I do not know if he explained his position on gay marriage to the Muslim community but I think we need to have these issues discussed

among our Imams and religious leaders in terms of how do we as Muslim reconcile our being here in the US and how do we participate in the political process without compromising our faith.

Today it's a Muslim Dr. Jalisi supporting gay marriage yesterday it was X non-Muslim candidate asking for our support while they support gay marriage. Tomorrow it will be the young MSA leader who says he/she will support gay marriage in order to be SGA president on the college campus.

It's time our leaders pay attention to and openly address the issues we face here in the USA and specifically in Maryland which are impacting how we live, work, study and play on a day to day basis. Wa-Salaamu Alaikum, -A concerned Muslim Brother from Baltimore

The views expressed in The Muslim Link do not necessarily reflect those of Dar-us-Salaam or TML management or their underwriters. Dar-usSalaam and TML are not responsible for the accuracy of information presented by advertisers, or for the religious compliance of events, products, or services published in TML. This publication contains the names of ALLAH (Subhanahu wa ta’ala). Please keep, recycle, or share it with others The Muslim Link PO Box 596 College Park, MD 20741 Phone : (301) 982-1020 Fax: (240) 209-0702 editor@muslimlinkpaper.com Advertising: 301-982-1020 or email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com The Muslim Link.

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

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6366 Commerce Street Springfield, VA 22150 Phone: 703-912-3118, 703-912-5855

CHEF’S SPECIALS 14.25 15.00 12.95 13.95 11.50 11.50 12.95 13.95 11.50 12.95 13.95 16.95 16.95 16.95 16.95 16.95 12.95

APPETIZERS Fried Chicken Wings (8) Spicy Chicken Wings (8) General Tao’s Wings (8) Buffalo Style Wings (8) Spring Rolls (2) Spicy Chicken Pakor a Teriyaki Beef/Ch icken Fried Wontons (8)

6.50 7.00 8.00 8.00 3.00 8.95 5.50 4.25

SIZZLING PLATTERS Shrimp on Sizzling Platter Steak on Sizzling Platter Scallops on Sizzling Platter Sizzling Chicken Sizzling Fish

1 Za 00% Habih lal a

Hours

Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm (Last Dine In: 9:30pm) Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm (Last Dine In: 10:30pm)

Lunch Buffet (except holiday) 11am-3:30pm Monday-Friday 7.95 plus tax

DAILY SOUP Egg Drop Soup Wonton Soup Chicken Corn Soup Hot & Sour Soup Chicken Tom Yum Soup Shrimp Tom Yum Soup

FRIED RICE Reg.

Vegetable Fried Rice 8.00 Chicken Fried Rice 8.00 Beef Fried Rice 8.25 Shrimp Fried Rice 8.25 Combo Fried Rice 8.75 (Chicken , Beef & Shrimp) Hakka Fried Rice 8.75 (Chicken & Shrimp)

17.95 17.95 17.95 17.95 17.95

Plain Lo Mein 7.00 Vegetable Lo Mein 8.75 Chicken Lo Mein 8.75 Beef Lo Mein 9.50 Shrimp Lo Mein 9.50 Combo Lo Mein 10.00 (Chicken, Beef & Shrimp)

Website: www.mandarinchinesehalal.com Email: mandarinhalal@hotmail.com

5.50 CHICKEN 5.25 Served with White Rice 5.25 Chicken with Broccoli 3.00 Chicken with Mixed Vegetables Hunan Chicken Chicken in Garlic Sauce 5.00 Chicken in Cashew Nuts 5.50 Mongolian Chicken 6.50 Manchurian Chicken 6.50 Chicken Chilli 6.50 Kung Pao Chicken 7.50 Szechuan Chicken Sweet & Sour Chicken

Spicy Fried Tofu (8) Shrimp Tempura (4) Crab Rangoon (6) French Fries

Spicy

8.25 8.25 8.50 8.50 9.00 8.75

Manchria

10.50 10.50 10.50 10.50 10.95 10.95 10.95 10.95 10.95 10.95 11.25

VEGETABLES

Served with White Rice Sauteed Mix Vegetables Hunan Mixed Vegetables Eggplant in Garlic Sauce Szechuan String Beans Bean Curd w/ Mixed 9.75 Vegetables 9.00 9.00 9.25 9.25 9.75

LO MEIN (NOODLE) 11.25

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Chinese Halal Cuisine

MP 0%ha 10abi lal Z Ha

R estaur n i r a d an an

W ande deli cat ver er

Served with White Rice Hakka Crispy Chicken Hakka Crispy Beef Spicy Crispy Shrimp Sweet & Sour Combo (Chicken & Shrimp) Sesame Chicken General Tao’s Chicken General Tao’s Beef General Tao’s Combo (Chicken & Beef) Orange Chicken Orange Beef Orange Combo (Chicken & Beef) Sweet & Sour Fish Chili Fish Spicy Crispy Fish Manchurian Fish Hunan Fish Triple Delight (Chicken, Beef & Shrimp) Chicken in Chef’s Special Sauce

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LUNCH SPECIAL

8.95 8.95 8.95 8.95 9.25

$6.95

Monday - Friday 12pm - 3:30pm

7.25 8.00 All Lunch Specials Served with Vegetable of the Day 9.00 9.75 White Rice or Egg Fried Rice or Plain Lo Mein 9.00 9.75 (Please No Substitutions) 9.75 10.50 Beef with Mixed Vegetables Chicken with Broccoli 9.75 10.50 Chicken Chilly 10.25 11.00 General Tao’s Chicken

SINGAPORE RICE NOODLE With curry or brown sauce Vegetarian Singapore10.00 10.25 11.00 Chicken Singapore 10.00 10.25 11.00 Chicken & Shrimp Singapore 10.00 10.25 11.00 Beef Singapore 10.50 10.75 11.50 Shrimp Singapore 10.50 10.75 11.50 Combo Singapore 11.00 11.25 12.00

Kung Tao’ Chicken Manchurian Chicken Pepper Steak with Onions Sauteed Mixed Vegetables Shrimp in Garlic Sauce Sweet & Sour Chicken

NEW ITEMS

Beef, Chicken or Shrimp Teriyaki or Combination Pad Thai with Chicken and Shrimp Bean Thread Rice Noodle with Chicken and Shrimp Fried Bananas with Ice Cream Gulab Jamun (2 pieces)

10.95 11.50 11.50 4.95 2.25

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Restaurant Section

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

Appetizers 1. Samosa 2. Samosa chat 3. Shami kabob

$1.25 $2.49 $2.49

Kabob House All Kabobs are cooked on charcoal and served with rice,tandoori naan (bread), salad, chutney (yogurt sauce) andone side of your choice (chickpeas, vegetables or lentils). l. Chicken Kabob (Bone1css) $7.99 2. Lamb Kabob $9.99 3. Beef kabob* $8.49 4. Lamb Chops $12.99 5. Seekh Kabob $7.99 6. Chicken Kabob (Bone-In) $7.49 7. Reshmi Kabob $8.49

Restaurant Section

Weekend Special 1. Nihari 2. Haleem

$7.99 $7.99

Sweets 1. Rice Pudding 2. Sweets(2pieces) Sweets(Mix)

$2.99 $1.99 $5.99/Lbs

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Salads Served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions and yogurt sauce on the side...

1. Chicken Salad $6.49 2. Beef Salad $7.49 3. Lamb Salad $8.49 4. Gyro/Falafel Salad $5.49 Drinks Buffet Menu MON-FRI (11AM-4PM) $7.99 MON-FRI (4PM-10PM) $8.99 Weekends $9.99

8. Chapli Kabob* 9. Combination Kabob 10. Bihari Kabob* ll. Fish Kabob Side Orders 1. Naan(Bread) 2. Rice 3. Salad 4. Chutney (Yogurt Sauce) 5. Vegetable Curry 6. Meat Curry 7. Grilled Tomatoes

$8.99 $14.99 $8.99 $9.99

$1.00 & $1.25 $1.99 $2.49 8oz. $1.491 12oz. $1.99 8oz. $2.49 / 12oz. $3.49 8oz. $2.99! 12oz. $3.99 $2.99

By Special Order 1. Biryani(Chicken or Vegetable) $5.99 2. Chicken Karahi (For Two) $17.99 3- Lamb/Beef Karahi (For Two)$19-99 Wraps Served on freshly baked bread with cucumber sauce, lettuce,tomatoes, onions and cheese and yogurt sauce on the side...

1. Gyro Wrap (Lamb and becf mix) $5.99 2. Falafel Wrap $5.49 3. Chicken Wrap $6.49 4. Ground Chicken Wrap $6.99 5. Beef Wrap $6.99 6. Ground Beef Wrap $7.49 7. Lamb Wrap $7.99

1. Can Soda 2. Bottle Soda 3. Chai 4. Yogurt Drinks and Mango Laasi $2.49 5. Bottle Water....

6. Bottle Juice......

$ .99 $1.49 $l.50

$1.25 $1.75

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Restaurant Section

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

Restaurant Section

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Restaurant Section

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

Restaurant Section

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Restaurant Section

December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

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Classifieds | 61

Place a personal classified ad. Call us at 301-982-1020. Office@muslimlinkpaper.com

We invite you to place a personal classified on the web FREE of charge at www.muslimlinkpaper.com. Classifieds in the print edition of the Muslim Link newspaper are only $1 for every 3 words. All classifieds run for a single monthly issue in the Marketplace section. Get started by emailing your exact text to office@muslimlinkpaper.com and then call in your credit card payment to 301-982-1020 or send a check or money order payable to: The Muslim Link, PO Box 596, College Park MD 20741.

Miscellaneous BUSINESS PARTNER WANTED Need a business partner to start a sewing/tailoring business. Call 240-912-5954.

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Services FUNDING SUPPORT NEEDED

Funding support is needed at Islamic Learning Multipurpose Center: Contact Bro. Yusef Shahid to see how we can barter a percentage of Home Services work to support bldg and programs. Coordinator: Bro. Yusef Shahid 443 769 0319, Teacher: Sister Touria Elfakir 410 467 1259, Contractor Bro. Allen Scott 443 538 7643.

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December 19th 2014 - January 15th , 2015

December 19th 2014 - January 15th, 2015

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The people of Syria and Gaza still need your help.

DONATE NOW!

islamic relief usa

irusa.org•1.855.447.1001 3655 Wheeler ave., alexandria, va 22304

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