The Muslim Link - October 11, 2013 by The Muslim Link

don't fOrget to fast on the day of arafah october 14, 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

For ISWA, a Sweet 40th

Islamic Society of the Washington Area Celebrates As a Family By Hena Zuberi Muslim Link Staff Reporter

Sitting in a basement at monthly Quran readings in the early 70s, young students and immigrant families bonded over Caribbean food and their Islamic traditions and dreamt of a place of their own.

Muslim Link Staff Reporter

Islamic Society Washington Area’s (ISWA) story is of family. As students and immigrants from Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago would come to the DC Metro area, the community become their family and absorbed

In the cafeteria -- in front of 500 students-- Hassan,* a tenth grader at Bowie High, was ordered by his principal to remove his kufi while on campus. Despite Hassan’s

24 hours later, as he walked down the halls, an administrator took it off his head, again. His parents, Kareem and Zaynab, visited the

Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice a Hit or Miss for Area Muslims | pg 5

Halal Buzz Evident at Annual Natural Products Expo | pg 7 Muslimah Designers Debut at DC Fashion Week | pg 12

>> iswa Pg 27

attempts to explain why he was wearing it, he was still asked to remove it.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

MoCo Public School Students Told to Stay Home On Eid | pg 5

Prince George's County School Official: Students Have Right to Pray In School By Hena Zuberi

The Muslim Link

school and reluctantly sent in written permission. Reluctant because they believe that it is his constitutional right to wear religious attire and that he does not ‘require permission to practice his religion as he sees fit.’

A few days later an assistant principal asked him to remove the cap --again-and threatened to write him up, leaving Hassan upset and embarrassed.

>> pray Pg 23

ISLAM: The Prophet's Last Hajj Khutbah to the Ummah | pg 35 BOOK: America's Founding Fathers Included Islam | pg 38

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

2 | COMMUNITY NEWS

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

INDEX

Mujtaba Yahya, DDS Aamir Sheikh, DDS, MS Seema Bateson, DDS

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

COMMUNITY NEWS

Community News Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice Options a Hit or Miss for Area Muslims Some Feel Masajid Must 'Take the Bull by the Horns' By Urooj Zulfiqar

son due to the lower price range. Not only that, I believe the process [isn’t] organized yet within the Muslim community and often there is disunity among the Muslim community, and that just takes away the whole meaning behind the importance of this holiday season.”

Muslim Link Staff Reporter

When the large Muslim community in the DMV region gets ready for Eid Al-Adha, often the most challenging task they face is deciding where to perform the sacred sacrificial ritual (udhiyya) and what to do if local farms don't meet Islamic requirements. In the past ten years, the Muslim community in the D.C.-metro region has grown and spread rapidly and the demand for carrying out the sacrificial ritual personally has become quite popular. Although the concept is quite common, not every Muslim is able to perform the ritual locally. Hence, they find alternative options of either sending donations overseas through various charitable organizations or arranging Udhiya

Mr. Ghanim’s organization not only donates every Hajj season, but they also donate to poor and needy in Africa every month through local masajid and imams. through relatives in other countries. “We plan to sacrifice two sheep, one for family and one for charity,” Habib Ghanim, Sr., the President of USA Halal Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and the Director of ISWA (Islamic Society of the Washington Area) Halal Certification Department, informs the Muslim Link

about his plan for this year. Not only does he plans to sacrifice locally in the Silver Spring, Maryland area, he also plans to send money overseas. “It costs us $250 to offer Udhiya locally, and about $100 to offer Udhiya overseas,” Ghanim voices his concerns, “and most people intend to send money overseas this sea-

While Mr. Ghanim believes that it is hard to arrange local Udhiya, Imam Ahmad Azzaari of Prince George’s Muslim Association (PGMA) believes it to be otherwise. “As for Udhiya, we don’t usually of>> sacrifice Pg 21

Equality for Eid Activists Ask MoCo Families to Keep Students Home October 15 By Hena Zuberi

Muslim Link Staff Reporter Keep your children home on Eid, October 15, 2013 is the message activists in Montgomery County are giving everyone, regardless of the faith they practice. They are asking for support from their neighbors and co-workers. With assistance from the Maryland chapter of CAIR, long time residents of MoCo have called for this initiative. Samira Hussein, a school district staff member and a mother of four Mont-

gomery County Public School graduates, is the co-chair of the Equality for Eid Coalition (E4E). She is asking supporters to sign a petition to request Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Board of Education to close schools on Eid holidays; a struggle that is a decade old. “There has been a deliberate accommodation for other faiths and we would like to see the same for ours.” She has

>> EID Pg 19

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

6 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Syrian-Born Leader Tapped To Improve Permitting And Inspections In Prince George’s By Miranda S. Spivack

comfort with disparate cultures.

Washington Post, September 22, 2013

Soon after taking office, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III began purging top administrators from county government. Worried that holdovers from Jack Johnson’s administration might be caught in the unfolding “pay-to-play” corruption probe, Baker agonized over who should stay and who should go. But one name kept popping up as Baker (D) weighed his options three years ago. “Keep Haitham,” he heard repeatedly. Haitham (pronounced Hi-them) is Syrian-born Haitham Hijazi, a 54-year-old civil engineer and one of only two department heads Baker retained. In July, Hijazi, who spent a decade as head of the county’s $22 million public works and transportation department, took charge of a new Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement that Baker has said is vital to his efforts to change the perception of Prince George’s as corrupt,unwelcoming to business and overly bureaucratic. Baker said he needed to fix the permitting and inspections system — which had been criticized for being lax on regulation, slow to respond to neighborhood blight and inefficient in issuing permits — or face the possibility that the county might never emerge from its troubled past or attract high-end development that has bypassed it. In 2010, investigators arrested Baker’s predecessor Johnson (D) and his wife, then-County Council member Leslie Johnson (D-Mitchellville) after Johnson took $15,000 in cash from a developer and was then overheard on a wiretap discussing plans for his wife to stuff $79,600 into her bra. Johnson, who admitted in federal court that he took more than $400,000 in bribes, is serving a seven-year prison term for shaking down developers almost from the day he took office in 2002. Leslie Johnson served a one-year term.

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Businesses and residents for years also have complained that the county’s permitting system is convoluted and difficult for even experts to navigate. As the stock of foreclosed properties swelled, the government struggled to ensure that the grass was cut and trash picked up. For many residents and businesses, it was hardly a shock that the Johnson scandal showed that bribery could be an efficient way to get things done. “This is like the schools,” Baker said, referring to his recent effort to gain more control of the public school system. “It’s a big risk. But we have to do it.”

pete with adjacent and surrounding jurisdictions to attract new business and more-upscale development,” he said. To do that, he said, the system for development approval and cleaning up blight needed to be easier to navigate. “The jury is still out,” Dunn said. “But I am optimistic.” Hijazi, who is paid $180,000 annually, said his goal is to create a “one-stop shop that will reform the process quite a bit.”

As the county seeks major investors for its 15 underutilized Metro stations, tries to lure federal agencies such as the FBI and attract new residents, it can ill afford an unwieldy bureaucracy that is slow to act or indifferent to problems in neighborhoods, Baker said.

Since the new agency opened July 1, Hijazi has been managing a staff of nearly 200 employees who must expedite permits while ensuring that applications are scrutinized; clean up the county’s long list of housing violations; ensure that new buildings are safely constructed; and pressure property owners, including banks, who aren’t properly maintaining foreclosed properties.

“Prince George’s needs to be a place where businesses and residents want to stay and where new ones want to come,” he said. Otherwise, “they will walk away.”

But he cautioned not to expect miracles overnight because money to pay for the overhaul is limited in the county, where raising real estate taxes is limited by a tax cap.

Kenneth Dunn, a vice president of Soltesz, an engineering firm with many projects in Prince George’s, said that the new, $24 million agency is a muchneeded attempt to fix long-standing problems.

“We had to create a new department from scratch,” Hijazi said. “That is not easy when you have a downturn in the economy.”

“Ultimately, Prince George’s County needed to put itself in position to com-

Hijazi’s two-decade rise in county government, friends and colleagues say, stems from his workaholic tendencies, but also from his friendly manner and

An observant Muslim, Hijazi prays several times a day in his office, shutting out the modern world to recite from the Koran. A structural engineer and government manager, he speaks fluently about mathematical equations, road widening and how best to inspire employees. A Syrian immigrant and naturalized citizen in a majority African American county, Hijazi has showed uncommon skill at befriending county residents, politicians and business leaders from diverse political and ethic groups. Growing up as the oldest of 13 children in Syria and later Saudi Arabia, Hijazi learned early how to manage. At age 22, after graduating from Damascus University, his eldest uncle put him in charge of two younger cousins who were attending college in Maryland while Hijazi received a master’s in engineering from George Washington University. Hijazi went on to receive a doctorate in engineering from the University of Maryland and joined a development consulting firm in Adelphi. He soon made his way to the county’s public works department where he rose through the ranks and was tapped by Johnson to run the agency. Now he faces a huge challenge. “He could have stayed at public works,” Baker said. “And he knows if this doesn’t work out he might lose his job.” Since the new agency opened in modernized offices in Largo, Hijazi has been immersing himself in the details, trying to ensure that staff members know how to use the new computerized intake system and watching to see if they hit newly imposed deadlines. Hijazi is also trying to do more to update computer systems and expects to

>> leader Pg 30

October 11th - November 7th 2013

COMMUNITY NEWS

Halal Buzz Evident at Annual Natural Products Expo Over 22,000 attendees, 1,200 vendors show food revolution growing

By Sarah Khasawinah

Muslim Link Contributing Writer

This past September in Baltimore, Maryland, thousands of producers, retailers, and leaders from the natural, organic, and healthy movement came together for the Natural Products Expo East tradeshow. From September 25 through September 28, 2013 at the Baltimore Convention Center, over 1,200 vendors featured their products and their philosophies, which embraced in various ways that which is natural and good. The Muslim philosophy for that which is pure and permissible is called Halal. While most companies at Expo East offered Halal products, such as alcoholfree beverages, gelatin-free candies, and lard-free pies, only a few businesses had acquired the formal Halal certification. One such company is Sol Cuisine,

a maker of vegetarian foods, including mushroom rice burgers and quinoa sliders. Jess Abramson, Vice President of Sol Cuisine, proudly advertised the Halal certificate and explained, “More and more retailers are concerned about that certification.”

Other retailers were unsure whether a Halal certificate would make their products more desirable, and they asked me off the record for my thoughts. Since pork and alcohol hide without a trace in packaged food items, I believe that a Halal label on such items would be use-

ful for Muslim consumers. Plus it would save one the headache of inspecting every ingredient on a box, and turning to Google to determine if an ambiguous word represents something pork-based.

Expo East featured three halal certified meat companies. In addition to carrying the Halal label, each of the companies at Expo East also practices ethical treatment of the animals. Joohi Tahir, Vice President of Crescent Foods, the largest provider of premium Halal poultry in the United States, emphasized the point. “We stress the whole process, not just the slaughter,” she explained. The animals for Crescent Foods are raised in the Midwest by Amish farmers and given a vegetarian feed with no animal byproducts. The slaughter, Tahir explained is “all done by hand by Muslims.” Crescent Foods represented the only Muslim-owned meat retailer at the

While a Halal stamp on a box of cookies would be helpful, it is not mandatory. I

>> halal Pg 17

“We see the Halal certification as a trend. That’s one that I think we should explore.” Retailers who do not yet meet Halal guidelines also expressed interest. Chuck Marble of Ian’s Friendly Food for Life, specializing in foods ranging from chicken nuggets to onion rings, expressed this sentiment: “We see the Halal certification as a trend. That’s one that I think we should explore.”

ONE SACRIFICE. A LIFETIME OF BLESSINGS.

could do my research and decide to eat the cookies or not. The place where a Halal stamp is necessary for most Muslims is on packages of meat.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

8 | COMMUNITY NEWS

South Africa's Muslim Ambassador Headlines CAIR Annual Banquet By Asmaou Diallo Muslim Link Contributing Writer The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) held its 19th banquet on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at the Marriott in Crystal City, in Arlington, Virginia. The fundraising goal was $400,000. Ibrahim Hooper, CAIR National Communications Director said that he was “pleased with the support shown at the banquet.” About 900 supporters filled the banquet hall. The Dinner registration started at 5:30. The room assigned for the prayer came out short as it was very small for this big crowd and someone said “this is a good problem to have”. People waited patiently for the first batch to finish their Maghrib prayers and then a second prayer was held. The function started with Quranic recitation by Imam Ahmad Azzari' of the Prince George's Muslim Association. The Master of Ceremonies was CAIR Staff Attorney, Gadeir Abbas. CAIR’s Rosa Parks Civil Liberties Scholarship and the Sharifa Alkhateeb Community Service Scholarship were presented respectively to Yasmine Arrington and Aabid Mohiuddin. Linda Sarsour was awarded the American Muslim of the Year while Make Space won the 2013 Commu-

nity Organization of the Year. Tayyibah Taylor was awarded the 2013 Excellence in Media and Chaplain Tarif Shraim the 2013 Community Service Award. ISNA’s Dr. Sayyid M. Syeed won the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award. All the happy recipients accepted their awards by thanking CAIR with few words of appreciation. Nihad Awad, CAIR National Executive Director, talked about “What It Takes to Protect our Faith” by reminding the gathering of the responsibilities of Muslims living in the US. loved Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) who The keynote speaker, South Africa's Ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool, reminded the gathering of the beautiful example Muslims have in the be-

>> CAIR Pg 25

Syrian Qur’an Scholar to MD Muslims: “Memorize, Young and Old” By Hayat Marso and Habeeb Marso Muslim Link Contributing Writers A night of melodious recitation and concise talks on the remembrance of Allah took place at Dar-us-Salaam in College Park, MD on Friday, September 27, 2013. Sheikh Mohammad Taha Sukkar, a scholar from Syria with Qur’an as his specialty, honored the attendees with his presence. He has an ijazah in Tajweed, which shows that he has the credentials to recite the Qur’an correctly from memory with proper and precise pronunciation. The Qur’an can be recited in ten different styles, and the sheikh has obtained an ijazah in every single one of them. Sheikh Sukkar hails from a respected and honorable family. His father was also a renowned scholar in Syria, giving ijazahs to a number of world-famous and well-known Qur’an reciters such as Ayman bin Rushdi Swayd, Abu Bakr

....

ash-Shatri, and Abdullah Ibn Ali Basfar. Sheikh Sukkar came to Dar-us-Salaam in response to an invitation from Imam Safi Khan, founder and imam of Darus-Salaam in College Park, Maryland. He currently resides in Rochester, New York, and immigrated to the US after the Syrian war erupted a few years ago. Sheikh Sukkar gave a halaqah after Maghrib prayer in which he praised the efforts of Dar-us-Salaam and the number of huffaaz the institution produces every year. Due to his limited English, he gave his talk in Arabic with Br. Abdus Samad Maddad acting as his translator. Sheikh Sukkar said he was surprised in many ways when he came to the United States. He was able to see people from different cultures, different backgrounds, and different colors all memorize the Qur’an in large numbers. “This shows that the Qur’an is a miracle from Allah and that it was delivered to the entire humanity and not just to the Arabs,” the sheikh said.

He went on to say that the Qur’an was unlike any other scripture sent down, such as the Taurah, Injeel, and Zabur. Such books were sent down to the people of that time but the Qur’an was sent down to all mankind of all times. It was not just restricted to one nation, but to all nations. It was not restricted to one culture but to all cultures. It was not restricted to one generation but to all generations. Memorization is one of the ways that Muslims can preserve the Qur’an, he emphasized. “No other book is read more, recited more, and memorized more than the Qur’an. But it is not we that preserve the Qur’an; rather it is Allah who preserves it for us.” The sheikh mentioned that Allah has said in Surah al Hijr that, “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an and indeed it is We as its protectors. We also have the Qur’an in its original language, the Arabic, which is unfamiliar to many people, yet these individuals memorize a book that

is in a language they do not know and understand. The other scriptures were not sent to survive for long. Allah did not decree that they should be preserved by the people. As a result, addition and subtractions from these scriptures occurred.” He furthermore addressed the tremendous benefits on the Day of Judgment in memorizing and practicing the Qur’an. He talked about the crown that will be placed on the heads of the huffaaz and their parents. He also related how the huffaaz will be called the people of Allah, and it will be said, as narrated in a hadith, “Recite as you used to recite in your earthly life, for your station in paradise will be at the last verse you recite.” In addition, he also added that one should learn the language of Arabic so that when memorizing the Qur’an, the >> memorize Pg 29

October 11th - November 7th 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

10 |COMMUNITY NEWS

[ The Muslim Link Asks ]

Should You Care About Obamacare? By Hena Zuberi

accident. Leigh Cobb, Health Policy Director at Advocates for Children and Youth, says that all plans will also have to cover children through their parents insurance, up to the age of 26.

Muslim Link Staff Reporter

Wrapping up a cut of meat, he is taken aback by the question, “Are you going to enroll for insurance through the Maryland Health Connection?” Yaseen* Reza, a healthy man in his late 20s works for a halal grocer. Unmarried, uninsured and a citizen, he has heard about the Affordable Health Act (ACA also termed Obamacare), after the government shutdown, but doesn’t know how it applies to him. Medical debt is a top cause of bankruptcy in the United States and 42.6 million Americans under the age of 65 live without health insurance. “[The new law] is particularly important in addressing racial and ethnic health inequalities,” shares Suzanne Schlattman, Deputy Director for Development and Community Outreach, Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative Education Fund, Inc. at a news briefing arranged by New America Media. On October 1st, Americans began shopping for mandated health coverage that is affordable. Enrollment will continue until March 31, 2014. Health insurance coverage will start in January 2014. Under the new law, all legal residents are required to have health insurance, including lawfully present: green card holders, refugees, asylees, and non-immigrant visa holders, so now is the time to start shopping using the health exchanges. Maryland has the lowest rates for insurance plans. Maryland chose to set up its own exchange instead of relying on the federal exchange. Using the internet, any resident of Maryland can access the Maryland Health Connection, a “one-stop health insurance marketplace where individuals and families can shop, compare and select a health plan.” The site has experienced glitches as thousands have tried to register for healthcare ‘that is finally affordable.’

....

Beginning in 2014, no insurance plan in the country can turn down or charge more money because someone is sick or has an on-going health issue (a preexisting condition). This is true even if someone was turned down or refused coverage due to a pre-existing condition in the past.

Consumers who have questions or cannot log on to the exchanges can use organizations called ‘connectors’. Connectors have staff called navigators that can help them choose the best insurance for their needs. As a leader among the rest of the states, Maryland’s early acceptance of the plan put it in a position to take advantage of federal grants. “Because we acted so early, we didn't get weighed down in the political rhetoric that other states got weighed down in,” says

to apply for coverage, compare options, and enroll. Washington D.C.has its own exchange, and Virginia chose to use the federal exchange. The federal and state exchanges are shopping malls of health coverage and include a range of options so consumers can pick a plan that meets their needs and their budget. They can check if they qualify for lower costs on health insurance, based on modified adjusted gross income or free or low-cost coverage available through

The new healthcare act will also allow access to mental health services, which is acutely needed especially for refugees or recent immigrants, many of whom are from war torn countries. Schlattman. As a Marylander, Reza has the choice to take the full amount of the tax credit immediately to knock down the amount his insurance will cost him or he can wait until the end of the year and receive the tax credit as a part of his tax refund. Marketplaces are set, no matter what state a consumer lives in, he or she will be able to use the federal marketplace

Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Benefits for Young Adults Lisa Ahmad* is a first year medical student. She wants to know if she should buy the expensive insurance from her university or will she be covered by her parents’ insurance if they choose to buy through Maryland Health Connection. Ahmad has a preexisting condition as she crushed her metatarsals in a car

They also can’t charge women more than men. Consumers can look forward to other positive aspects of the new healthcare act, such as no more lifetime limits on health care coverage. All plans must also cover preventative and wellness care, as well as chronic disease management, at no extra cost to the consumer, including flu and pneumonia shots, routine vaccinations, and screenings for cancer. And essential health insurance benefits are included; meaning a doctor visit, hospitalization, emergency care, maternity and newborn care, pediatric care, prescription drugs, laboratory tests, and substance abuse treatment. The new healthcare act will also allow access to mental health services, which is acutely needed especially for refugees or recent immigrants, many of whom are from war torn countries. Reza is healthy, strong and doesn’t think he will get sick. He falls under a large category of males called the young invincibles, those who do not get insurance because it is too expensive. They are predominantly Black, Asian or Hispanic men, according younginvincibles.org, a DC based advocacy group that lobbied the government to address critical youth policy issues. Reza now realizes that unless he gets insurance, he could incur a penalty >> obamacare II Pg 11

October 11th - November 7th 2013 obamacare II

>> continued from pg 10

on his tax returns: $95 per adult and $47.50 per child, or 1 percent of a household’s total income, whichever is greater. By 2016, adults pay as much as $695 and $347.50 per child for a $2,085 family maximum, or 2.5 percent of the household income. Depending on how many hours he works and his income, according to the federal poverty line (FPL), he may be eligible for free or subsidized health insurance. Options for All When the Muslim Link spoke to the principal of the school at Islamic Community Center of Laurel (ICCL), she said that many of the teachers have insurance through their husbands’ employment but there are teachers who have no insurance, and they are often the only breadwinners in the family. Under ACA, a family of six, earning $43,596 – $126,360, or a couple earning between $21,405 – $62,040 can qualify for eligible federal subsidies. She was excited about spreading the news in the community. These teachers and other consumers can purchase subsidized coverage, and choose between four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum (in order of least to most comprehensive). In general, more comprehensive plans have higher premiums, but also have lower out-of-pocket costs. Bronze level coverage is the lowest level of coverage most people are required to have under health reform; on average bronze plans cover 60 percent of enrollees’ total costs. In the Silver level, on average the insurance pays 70 percent of the cost and the patient pays 30 percent. The most comprehensive plans are Gold and Platinum plans, which cover 80 and 90 percent of enrollees’ total costs, respectively. The benefits to Americans who already have health insurance through their employers is that all “preventative care” will now be available at no out-of-pocket cost. That means no copay on a whole gamut of tests includ-

CONTINUED| 11 ing blood pressure screenings, vaccinations, and STD/HIV screenings. Unless... their plans are ‘grandfathered’. This mean some health plans are exempt from some ACA’s rules and protections to allow a smooth transition and so businesses and individuals can keep current policies

Small Businesses “My parents visit from overseas every year; they stay with us for six months; they are green card holders. What are their options under the new Maryland health care law?,” asks Adel Hassan* of Prince George’s County. This question is asked many times by different community mem-

There are some broader concerns about the Affordable HealthCare Act. “Where will the money come from to pay for this?” wonders Dr. Imran Chowdhry of Howard County. without having to make substantial changes. Consumers will need to check if their current plans are grandfathered. For someone already enrolled in Medicaid, nothing changes, and he or she does not have to enroll again.

bers. Legal immigrants, such as green card holders, are eligible for qualified health plans through MHC, but not for Medicaid until they have lived in this country for five years, according to the law.

New immigrants and ACA

Lawful permanent residents (green card holders), who pay taxes in the US, are required to have a qualified health insurance plan, irrespective of whether or not they live in the USA on a long term basis or visit the United States only for a few months in a year.

The Riaz* family attends ICCL, they are documented immigrants but have been in the country for less than five years. A doctor in his country of ori-

Since no or low income non-citizens do not qualify for Medicaid (or have to wait for 5 years to qualify), they will be required to buy insurance

Consumers should note that plans offered through the exchange will not cover dental or vision; these will have to be purchased separately.

The benefits to Americans who already have health insurance through their employers is that all “preventative care” will now be available at no out-of-pocket cost. gin, Shahid Riaz* works at a local gas station to pay the bills, as he is not certified as a physician. They have two children. Through the masjid grapevine they learn that they can apply for health insurance through the exchange.

while they are in the country. Insurance will be subsidized according to their income. Undocumented immigrants cannot use the exchange to purchase insurance. ACA for the Self Employed and

Amir Sahib is a self employed contractor with a family. He works at Fifth Tribe, a software firm, and wonders how he can get affordable insurance for his family without paying high insurance rates. Kristie Arslan, former CEO of the National Association of Self Employed helped write the law. She says that a majority of small businesses in the United States are self employed. The Self Employed Benefit Institute states that 28 percent of self employed are currently uninsured. They are particularly challenged due to the practice of underwriting, which will not be allowed anymore. According to Arslan, the new law minimizes how much an insurance company can charge Sahib and others like him, reducing out of pocket expenses. Another issue has been cost, due the extremely high economies scale. Exchanges are pooling mechanisms and allow states like Maryland to group all of their residents together and negotiate a better price for all. Sahib and his family will have expanded coverage options under the ACA. Jameel Ramirez*, runs a non-profit with more than 50 employees in the DC Metro area and is baffled by the jargon. He doesn’t know what his responsibility is as an employer. Since Ramirez has more than 50 full-time employees, under the employer mandate he will suffer a penalty if he does not provide insurance to his employees by 2015. However, Ramirez can use the MHC to shop for insurance for his employees. Even if he was a ‘for profit’ employer the same rules would apply. The exchanges streamline the regulatory burden for Ramirez compared to if he was doing it all on his own. Employers with less than 50 employees, like halal restaurants, software firms or smaller start-ups can choose to offer health coverage and have their costs offset by the Small Em-

>> obamacare III Pg 37

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

12 |COMMUNITY NEWS

Muslimah Designers Debut at DC Fashion Week By Zarinah Shakir Muslim Link Contributing Writer

The 19th season of DC Fashion Week (DCFW) offered something new and long waited. The Haute and Modesty Show held September 27, 2013 featured for the first time seven Muslimah designers at the historic National Press Club in Washington, DC. The diverse audience of women, young and old, traditional, conservative and fashionistas were treated to two hours of designs starting with clothing for girls to “tweens” and quickly presented clothing from casual, leisure and modest swim wear to formal evening gowns and special event outfits for adult women of all sizes. “I was so proud of my sister designers and working with them was an honor,” said Baqiyah Adam, Design Director for Areej Fashions, the organization that planned the show. She organized the designers as well as showcased her

own designs for girls called Mali Rose. “They traveled from California, Seattle, Delaware, Atlanta, New Jersey and Philadelphia. They never complained about the deadlines or tasks that were presented to them and showed an awesome amount of professionalism backstage getting ready for the show.”

to 29, 2013.

“The designers pushed themselves, put in a lot of hard work and created beautiful, exquisite garments for the runway. Alhumdulillah, each designer, in their own unique way, played an intricate part in making DC Fashion Week Haute and Modest Fashion night a success.”

The response from women in attendance ranged from, “fabulous,” “incredible” and “the best fashion show I’ve ever been to.”

Internationally recognized DCFW is a partnership of independent fashion designers, producers and models. It is the fastest growing international fashion week exhibit in the world as it now reaches an audience of more than 10 million per event. More than 150,000 admirers and growing followed DCFW in anticipation of its 19th season where Spring/ Summer 2014 collections were presented at multiple venues in the nation’s capital from the September 23

“We are delighted to be the first major entity in North America to provide a highly visible platform specifically for modesty fashion designers,” said Ean Williams, creator and executive director of DCFW.

At the end of the program, Mr. Williams also highly impressed, gave a public invitation to Areej Fashions to do another show next year in February, 2014 during the 20th season of DC Fashion Week. The group welcomed the invitation and promises an even better show when fall and winter designs will be presented. If you missed the show, pictures can be seen at www. areejfashions.com where you can also purchase the designs.

With New Office, MCMF, Aims to Expand Senior Services MCMF, a grass-root non profit 501(c)(3) organization based in Montgomery County, Maryland was established in 2008 to exclusively pursue humanitarian work in the county. It’s mission is to assist the needy residents of the county and encourage and promote resident Muslim community’s involvement in the county. MCMF is engaged in multiple charitable projects in the county. It operates a free transportation service for the sick and the seniors, provides thanksgiving meals to needy families and food to homeless shelters. It conducts annual food drives for Manna Food and donates 10,000 to 18,000 pounds of food annually. MCMF also participates in the countywide Holiday Gift Basket program, which provides food and toys to needy families for Christmas. MCMF has currently launched MCMF mobile food pantry to serve the disabled and sick in the community. Since 2009 MCMF had operated these projects from a small office in Gaithersburg,. On October 5, 2013 MCMF moved into a new 3000 sq ft facility located at 811 Russell Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, where they will expand their services to the county seniors.

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The event was attended by Montgomery County officials including: County Executive Ike Leggett; Chuck Short, Special Assistant to County Executive; Bruce Adams, Director Community Partnerships; Sydney A. Katz, Mayor of Gaithersburg, MD; Deputy to Mayor of Gaithersburg, MD; Michael Sesma, Council Vice President, Gaithersburg; Victoria Hall from Montgomery County Health and Human Services; and Mansfield Kaseman, Interfaith Advisor to the County Executive. The opening remarks were made by Vice Chair Mr. Walid Hafiz who welcomed the guests together with Sara Noor, the President of MCMF. Mr. Tufail Ahmad, founder of MCMF welcomed the county officials and explained that the center will act primarily as a senior center providing seniors with free transportation, recreation facilities, computer and ESOL classes, nutrition education and various programs to benefit the seniors in the community. Mr.Legett together with other County officials inaugrated the office. Mr. Leggettt in his speech commended the work of the MCMF and their service to the community. He applauded the effort and dedica-

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggeii cuts the ribbon to inaugurate the new office of MCMF. Also pictured is Gaithersburg mayor Sidney Katz and to the left, MCMF founder Tufail Ahmad. Photo courtesy of MCMF. tion of MCMF in strengthening the community through their faith He hoped that MCMF services would expand their services much beyond the 3000 sq ft office and require an even larger facility than that. The mayor of Gaithersburg also commended the work of MCMF and added that he was proud that MCMF maintained their presence in Gaithersburg and would

continue their services to the community. The Mayor read the proclamation and the program ended with the guest mingling with the county officials. MCMF is having a fundraiser on November 2nd at the Shady Grove campus to raise funds for the senior center and the mobile food bank. For contact information, tickets and volunteering call 301760-7447 or email mcmfusa@gmail.com

October 11th - November 7th 2013

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America’s Islamic Heritage Museum Announces DC’s Proclamation Mayor Vincent C. Gary issues proclamation honoring October as America’s Islamic Heritage Month District of Columbia, October 1, 2013: America’s Islamic Heritage Museum (AIHM) announced, The Mayor of the District of Columbia issued a Proclamation honoring the month of October as America’s Islamic Heritage month. This year is the eighth annual celebration of October as America’s Islamic Heritage month in the District. This year’s theme is ”Connecting People Using Culture and History.” The Mayor calls upon all the residents of this great City to join him in celebration and recognition of the history and contributions of the Islamic Community. The Muslim communities throughout our region are encouraged to host open houses and educational events that highlight our diversity, contributions, and history. Our public schools are encouraged to learn about America’s rich Islamic history, to teach tolerance and understanding, and to visit AIHM museum. For more information, visit www. muslimsinamerica.org

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

COMMUNITY NEWS | 15

Addressing Domestic Violence with FAITH NoVA foundation works with victims, government, and Imams to address growing evil By Saman Quraeshi Muslim Link Contributing Writer Talking about Domestic Violence in the Muslim Community is never an easy task. But a small nonprofit in the heart of downtown Herndon has been playing an integral role for the past 13 years in establishing direct services for victims and survivors of domestic violence.

proach they give to each of their client's situation. She added that besides the physical and material needs FAITH works to connect their clients on a spiritual level as well. “We understand that religion and culture comes with our client,” said Ayesha*, “our clients’ religion is very important and they want to remain true to their [faith] while making huge decisions that fac[e] them,” said Ayesha.

FAITH, the Foundation for Appropriate and Temporary Help, has been working with domestic violence clients, county leadership and local imams to address many aspects of domestic violence. Ambreen Ahmed, FAITH’s Executive Director, has worked on domestic violence prevention programs like “Muslim Men against Domestic Violence,” and produced the FAITH publication What Islam says about Domestic Violence : A guide for helping Muslim Families. Ahmed said that when she started working with Muslim victims of domestic violence she found that there was confusion about religion and culture. To clear the confusion for Muslim victims as well as the larger community, Ahmed wanted to create a manual which would clear misconceptions and give insight into what is permissible in Islam.

through the community like wildfire, we all have to come together to see how we can save our families from it,“ said Ahmed. Through the FAITH Safe and Peaceful Families program domestic violence victims are provided with crisis counseling, safety planning, connection to legal representation, court advocacy and translation services. Support is provided from the moment they leave an abuser to the point where they are settled in a new situation. FAITH works collaboratively with county shelters, other non-profits and area masajid to address the needs of the client. Ahmed said that FAITH does not take any decisions for the clients. FAITH ‘s role is to provide information. It is then the clients decision of what course of action they will choose.

O MANKIND! Be conscious of your Sustainer, who has created you out of one living entity, and out of it created its mate, and out of the two spread abroad a multitude of men and women. And remain conscious of God, in whose name you demand [your rights] from one another, and of these ties of kinship. Verily, God is ever watchful over you. (Qur'an: 4:1)

The manual was a collaborative effort of Salma Abugideiri , a licenced professional counselor who provides counseling to Muslim families as well as Dr. Zainab Alwani, noted scholar and Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies at the Howard University School of Divinity. Funding for this project was provided by FAITH, International Institute of Islamic Thought and the Center for Multicultural Service through a Violence Against Women V-STOP grant. The FAITH publication was welcomed by many groups that serve Muslim populations, but are not culturally aware of the many customs and traditions that accompany a Muslim client. Being culturally savvy is one of the reasons that FAITH’s Safe and Peaceful Families program has been so successful. Ayesha*, FAITH’s domestic violence caseworker of seven years said that the success of FAITH’s domestic violence program comes from the holistic ap-

FAITH provides their clients with the opportunity to meet with imams who have been trained to understand the dynamics of Domestic Violence. The imams offer spiritual counseling, connect the clients to other support groups and may help clarify their religious concerns regarding their personal situations. On a community level Ahmed said that domestic violence is a difficult subject to approach and nobody wants to face it or admit that it’s a problem. In the past five years FAITH’s domestic violence cases have more than doubled. So far this year FAITH received 86 reported domestic violence related cases. Many are left unreported because of the taboo in our community, said Ahmed. She also cited the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (CDC) of 2010 which found that one in three women are abused in America.

Ahmed is actively involved with the Fairfax County Fatality Review Team, the Domestic Violence Policy and Prevention Coordinating council of Fairfax and the Safe Haven supervised visitation program. She believes that it is a community effort to address domestic violence and by having a Muslim presence it helps the county and other nonprofits understand the needs of the immigrant as well as the Muslim community.

“We’re not really addressing the community at large by preaching , said Ahmed. “ We’re making the change by helping the client. Our mission is to give our clients the dignity and respect that they deserve.”

-------------------------------------------------------------*name changed to protect privacy If you would like to purchase the What Islam Says about Domestic Violence : A Guide for Helping Muslim Families please email FAITH at info@faithus.org. For more information on FAITH’s Safe and Peaceful Families and or other programs please visit our website: http://www.faithus.org/home To stay in touch with FAITH’s various programs please like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ pages/FAITH-Social-Services/108621029175877

“Domestic violence is an epidemic that is spreading

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013 halal

>> continued from pg 7

tradeshow, and their presence helped spread the meaning of Halal. As Tahir put it “Halal is humane, Halal is natural.” They featured their line of chicken items including various cuts, marinated specialties, burger patties, and a new item: chicken nuggets with all white meat. Their products were well received; she said “We are getting interest from people who may not have seen us otherwise.” Crescent Foods is available in the poultry section of many mainstream supermarkets including Wal Mart, Pete’s Fresh, and Superior Groceries, and according to Tahir, “the demand is there, beyond Muslims.” Their mainstream retailers estimate that up to 70% of buyers choose Crescent Foods for the health benefits of the all-natural product. The other two Halal certified meat companies at Expo East sell meat products from overseas: New Zealand GrassFed Meats; and Australian Beef and Lamb, respectively. Keith Marx, Sales Manager representing NZ Grass-Fed Meats proudly explained that, “Every container we get is Halal certified.” The animals are raised free range on a 100% grass diet in New Zealand, slaughtered humanely according to Halal princi-

HCMC, Youth Team Up for HoCo Food Drive BY YOMNA NASSAR Muslim Link Contributing Writer Only seven years ago, 4,000 people visited the Howard County Food Banks. Today, the number of visitors has increased to 22,000 per year in the affluent county. September was Hunger Action Month in Howard County, so the Howard County Muslim Council (HCMC) teamed up with Halal Yeah Youth Center to hold a food drive and picnic, gathering about 5,000 pounds of food for Howard County Food Banks.

COMMUNITY NEWS | 17 ples, and packaged and shipped to the Philadelphia port, and then sold directly to consumers. “There is a shortage in the Halal industry of fine meats,” Marx explained, and he is eager to reach out to the Muslim community to help meet all needs.

Halal cares about the animal from start to finish, and many businesses are rising to meet this divine standard. However, as the industry grows, a bureaucratic threat looms. Tahir summarized it nicely: “There is no one set standard of Halal in the U.S … nobody is regulat-

“There is a shortage in the Halal industry of fine meats,” Marx explained, and he is eager to reach out to the Muslim community to help meet all needs. A new Maryland-based company, Simply Natural, which wasn’t present at Expo East is joining the fine meat industry offering chicken, beef, lamb, sheep, and goat year-round, as well as Qurbani for Eid Al-Adha. Like the retailers at Expo East, Simply Natural emphasizes the ethical treatment of animals. A part of their mission statement reads “to be protectors of the meat supply by ensuring that our animals are treated in the best manner from the beginning of their lives, after they have been harvested, and up to the time you receive it.” They are currently offering a promotional free delivery to the DC/ Baltimore Metro area with a minimum order of $75.

A September 15, 2013 food drive event at a Howard County park brought out hundreds of ordinary citizens and political figures alike, both impressed at the amounts of food collected for the Howard County Food Bank. “[This event] is important for the actual food, [and knowing] that there are families who are in need and this is going to serve families in need,” said County Executive Ken Ulman. “But the other bigger reason why it’s important is that it sends a message to the broader community that we do have families in need.” In the past five years, the number of people using the Howard County Food Bank has tripled. More children have been signed up for free or reduced meals at schools in Howard County. 16.02% of students in Howard County are enrolled in free or reduced lunches.

ing what Halal means. There is a need for standardization,” explained Tahir. The Halal meat from one store may have originated from an animal in a confined feeding operation, where it was made to eat the remains of other animals during its lifetime, and then slaughtered according to Halal guidelines. This “Halal” hardly sounds Halal. Stakeholders ought to come together to create a single set of Halal guidelines in the U.S. to preserve the quality of Halal. Building business based off of principles was the resounding theme of Expo East. Raj Sisodia, founder of the Conscious Capitalism Institute, who gave the keynote address, provided a butterfly metaphor. During the caterpil-

Between the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years, 827 more students in Howard County signed up for free or reduced meals, resulting in an 11.22% change. “People think we live in an affluent community,” Said Janet Siddiqui, Board of Education. “But right next door, there are people that are in need and we need to reach out to those people.” HCMC and Halal Yeah Youth Center (a project of the Islamic Leadership Institute of America) worked together to unite the community, bringing people of all ethnicities and religions together in this community gathering. Teams from youth centers, schools, churches, synagogues, mosques and more worked to collect food for the less fortunate of Howard County. “You are the future. Young people are

lar stage, the bug consumes as much as it can; when it becomes a butterfly, it gives back to the world, pollinating flowers and helping fruits blossom. Sisodia urged all businesses to become butterflies, and cautioned against staying in the caterpillar stage: “if all you care about is making money, eventually you won’t make any money at all.” This idea of consciousness in business is also central in Islam, and a part of what it means for a product to be Halal. Hundreds of ahadith enjoin retailors to be God-conscious in every move, from treatment of workers to the handling of the product. One such hadith follows: Asked ‘what form of gain is the best? [the Prophet] said, ‘A man’s work with his hands, and every legitimate sale’. (Ahmad, No: 1576) God-consciousness in business is so important that several verses of scripture also address this matter. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah counsels: You are the best nation that has been raised up for mankind; You enjoin right conduct, forbid evil and believe in Allah. (3:110) Halal means pure and good. The showcase of Halal at Expo East proved popular, and this is just the beginning.

the future to this county and this world. If you understand that there is a need today, for people less fortunate, then you’ll carry that with you as you grow older,” said Senator James Robey, who was very pleased with the youth involvement in the food drive. “This is a huge success. Number one, we are helping a cause. Number two, we’re also trying to become a part of the whole larger community,” said Rizwan Siddiqui, President of HCMC. The food drive helped others in the community see the true nature of the Muslim community, that they are just ordinary people, reaching out to their communities. Volunteers from all over the county collected and packed food into a Howard County Food Banks truck, off to help people in their ongoing struggle against hunger.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

COMMUNITY NEWS | 19

eid

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watched her children suffer and be penalized for being absent and doesn’t want the same for her grandchildren. “We are tired of excused absences, of making up tests and homework, forced to choose between our faith & studies,” she appeals. Hussein thinks that this is a teachable opportunity for all the county’s children to learn about their Muslim neighbors and classmates. “We are not seeking special rights; we are only asking for equal rights,” says Zainab Chaudry, vice-president of CAIR-MD. Around 50 people rallied on September 23, 2013 in front of the County Offices, including Councilman George Leventhal (D-at-large). This effort would change the school calendar to accomodate the Eid holidays. “In Montgomery County, Maryland Muslims are welcome and safe,” he spoke to cameras and the crowd. Councilman Leventhal, who is Jewish, will be keeping his son at home on Eid al-Adha in support. He acknowledges that academic achievement is paramount for his Muslim constituents of ‘deep faith’, who face a conflict every Eid Day, that Christians and Jews don’t face on their holydays. “I am a person of faith, but if school was in session on Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur, it would be a conflict, because I don’t want my children to miss important lectures by their teachers and I don’t want [their] attendance record to suffer, but that’s not a conflict for my family because [many years ago] the school system decided to close on Easter, on Christmas and on Rosh Hashanah,” he declares to a cheering crowd.

Despite anti-Muslim bloggers scare tactics, there has been a strong response from local faith-based groups. Pax Christi of the Catholic faith, Jews United for Justice, Christ The Servant Lutheran Church (Montgomery Village), Greater Olney Interfaith Ministerium have also expressed solidarity and members will not be sending their children to school on Eid- al Adha. Equal-

Her granddaughter, Khalila Ibrahim, shy on the podium has shared that she doesn’t want to miss a day of school; she wants to celebrate without guilt. ‘American Muslims deserve equal rights’ stated neon signs held up by school children to oncoming traffic in front of the Rockville City Hall as the evening news channels and local newspaper reporters swarmed around the

“We are not seeking special rights; we are only asking for equal rights,” says Zainab Chaudry, vice-president of CAIR-MD. ity For Eid: Stay home from school day in MCPS- reads the Montgomery County Civil Rights Coalition ticker on their website. The Board of Education has stated that school close on Jewish holidays because of a high amount of absenteeism. According to Leventhal, the school system cannot document that absenteeism

speakers to get some choice soundbites. Joshua Starr, the superintendent of schools of the MCPS has noted in in a letter to the Montgomery County Council that currently the “testing calendar does list Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as days that state exams will not be administered. It is possible that quizzes or tests may occur on holidays when

“I am put behind in class, because I choose to celebrate my holiday,” said a student. was used to determine school closure for Jewish holidays. He thinks it will be very simple for the schools system to implement the change on the calendar and doesn’t think it will impede learning. Mimi Hassanein, one of E4E co-chairs, has 13 grandchildren in the school district and worries that they are losing their Muslim identities. “I don’t want my grandchildren to go through what my children went through. MoCo is the best county to live in, let’s move forward and get this done,” she announces.

school is open; however, a process is in place for students to make up missed class work and/or quizzes and tests. Absence due to a religious holiday is considered excused.” Anhar Karim, a senior at Northwest High School in Germantown and cochair of the E4E, says that having a Math Unit test scheduled on his holiday and homework assigned from seven classes that is due the next day is a reality that he and many other students face. “I am put behind in class, because I chose to celebrate my holiday,” he says.

“I don’t want to fall behind,” asserts Noah Khan, an eighth grader at a magnet school. His parents want him to stay at home for Eid but one day could cost him in his highly competitive school. There are Muslim families who do not agree with the date for Eid being set ahead of time. Those who follow the local moonsighting method of determining the new month will be celebrating Eid on October 16th. Chaudry says that even if families do not celebrate Eid that day they should still keep their children home in support of this initiative. “This issue is about the recognition of our faith in the school calendar,” she says. Other counties in Maryland are rooting for the Equality for Eid initiative in MoCo. Talib, a father of kindergartener in Prince George’s County, shared that his daughter didn’t get a perfect attendance award as she missed one day of school which was Eid day. “We are watching this closely,” says Jameel Johnson, President of the Prince George’s County Muslim Council. “This is an important issue as Islam is the fastest growing religion in this country, and there will be more Muslims in public school; if we can be proactive, hopefully positive results will come with it,” says Najwa Kareem, of Gaithersburg, MD, who was attending the rally, “when I was in school I had this dilemma as a conscientious student.” Some years she didn’t miss school and felt guilt for not attending Eid prayers. About ten percentage of Montgomery County is Muslim, according to some estimates. These estimates are based on the the number of masajid and attendance at Eid Salah across the county. Wrapping up the rally, Zafar Mirza of the Muslim Community Center and cochair of E4E, urges everyone to skip school on October 15 to join in celebrating diversity in Montgomery County.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

October 11th - November 7th 2013 sacrifice

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fer any slaughter options in the masjid, but if someone wishes to perform the act locally, we encourage them to go the nearest place, which is either in Columbia or in Germantown,” Imam Azzaari regrettably explained the situation that faces many Muslims in America. Modern farms such as Lambco, LLC, in New Windsor, MD allow Muslims to perform the act on the farm as long as they are not in violation of the Meat Inspection Act.

COMMUNITY NEWS | 21 Salehi, the Muslim community at MIC is “pursuing Udhiya individually locally or via sending money for Udhiya to Muslim countries of their choice.” The Imams of Islamic Community Center of Laurel (ICCL) have opened a local farm called Simply Natural, LLC in Sharpsburg, MD

cow at GlobablMart as part of ISGR’s early Udhiya orders.

Local Slaughter Can Be Done At:

“It is cheaper to do Udhiya overseas, but ISGR continues to make it easier and cheaper to offer Udhiya locally. If anyone from our community wishes to choose the service from a local halal meat shops, we have that option available as well.”

Simply Natural, LLC 4233 Harpers Ferry Road Sharpsburg, MD 21782 Phone: 202-656-6328 Email: info@simplynaturalhalal.com ------------------------------------------------Hamzah Slaughter House, LLC 15680 Clear Spring Road, Williamsport, MD 21795 Phone: 703-615-8999 Email: suzanrababe@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------Zekiah Farms, LLC 5235 Bryantown Rd Waldorf, MD 20601 phone: 240-216-4065 website: http://www.zekiahfarms.com email: info@zekiahfarms.com ------------------------------------------------Joe Kavanagh, Lambco, LLC 722 Green Valley Road New Windsor, MD 21776 Phone: (410) 775-0546 Email: lambcomd@yahoo.com Website: http://www.lambcomd.com/ -------------------------------------------------

ISGR plans to do the Udhiya and eat the meat as a community and give the rest to the needy. ISGR also encourages people to give the charity portion to the Masjid so that the Masjid can distribute it after cooking it.

“It is cheaper to do Udhiya overseas, but ISGR continues to make it easier and cheaper to offer Udhiya locally."

The Muslim community at PGMA, according to Imam Azzaari, also has the option of either donating the money to charities overseas or locally, which most people from the community do, or have the opportunity to send money overseas to have the Udhiya performed on their behalf and have the meat distributed among the poor. “We do not have any agreement with any charity organization or any local halal meat or farm to carry these acts but we hope one day we are able to,” Imam Azzaari expressed his desire, “we also wish that a local farm or local halal meat store would offer a discount to anyone who is part of PGMA during the Hajj season, then life would be so much easier.” PGMA also has a system, where if a Muslim family donates meat as an act of charity, the association cooks the meat in their kitchen as a meal for the needy. Azim Salehi, the Chairman of Maryum Islamic Center (MIC) Board of Trustees expressed the same concern of having no farms near the vicinity with which they have an agreement. The nearest halal meat store is either in Columbia or Ellicott City. According to Mr.

and offer the services to anyone who wishes to perform their own Udhiya or want to place an order. Launched this year, the farm promises animals that are naturally bred and raised on a pure diet. While the majority of Muslim community organizations in Maryland do not offer Udhiya services, the Muslim community in Richmond, Virginia has set up an organized system to carry out the act. The Islamic Society of Greater Richmond (ISGR) offers the service to their community through GlobalMart (a store next to ISGR). For the ninth consecutive year, Richmond area Muslims are organizing a community sacrifice on Eid-ul-Adha at the Tuckahoe Plantation, a historic farming site over 600 acres in size equipped to host gatherings of thousands of people. It costs ISGR about $10,000 to have Eid-Al-Adha at the Plantation. “Some may be sending money to relief agencies, but every year more and more [people] are doing sacrifice locally ever since ISGR started sacrifice and prayer at a local farm in 2006,” says a spokes person on behalf of ISGR. It costs $170 for the live lamb and $150 plus processing for the shared-

The only concern ISGR voices is that although there are many local farms or slaughter houses available in the area; however they are not open to all the Muslim populations. A concern that Anne Arundel County Muslim Council Director (who wishes to remain anonymous) shares, “there are not a lot of local farms or slaughter houses owned by masajid. I wish and request the masajid, which are building bigger complexes should also build a place to carry out such services within the vicinity. It will make our lives so much easier.” Almost all the mosques and halal meat stores offer Udhiya services to the Muslim community but none have any agreement with any charity organizations. Charity organizations such as ICNA Relief, Islamic Relief, Helping Hands amongst others are available to carry the charity requests of the Muslim community in the DC Metro area.

Manager, George G Ruppersberger & Sons

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

competition

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>> Marriage III Pg 22

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COMMUNITY NEWS | 23

PRAY

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“I take my religion very seriously,” says Hassan’s mother, Zaynab Arenas. She is frustrated by her son’s principal. As a parent she is happy that her son is taking interest in his religion, and thinks incidents like these embarrass and demean Muslim young adults. “They are often exploring [at this age] and expressing their identity.” ‘Do I have the right to wear the hijab at school? Can I pray Jumu'ah in congregation while in school?’ Many students have these questions and the Prince George’s County Muslim Council’s (PGCMC) panel on the First Amendment attempted to answer these questions at the brand new library in South Bowie on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. More than sixty people representing families, masajid and organizations attended the event, including high school students. According to the PGCMC estimates, there are approximately 10,000 Muslims in PG County. Jamil Johnson, who heads PGCMC, is a parent from Eleanor Roosevelt High School. PGCMC is an active, ‘nonprofit grassroots organization whose mission is to promote the involvement of Muslim residents in the civic and political affairs of the county.’ When a number of students approached the council in the summer of 2012 and relayed their concerns about not getting permission to leave campus to attend Jumu'ah or to hold prayers on campus, the council investigated. They found

From right, PGCMC head Jamil Johnson, whose daughter attends a public school in Prince George's County; Daryl Williams, Prince George’s County Public School (PGCPS) Chief of Student Services, and CAIR-MD attorney Azim Chowdhury discuss issues surrounding Muslim public school students praying in school. Photo by Muslim Link.

unequal levels of accommodations for Muslims to practice across the county. “PG county has its rules in this regard. Parents need to know [especially immigrants] who aren't aware of the rules,” said Johnson. His daughter Naadira, a student at Eleanor Roosevelt, also spoke at the event. She shared her positive experiences at her school regarding hijab and prayers. Her father had met extensively with the principal about various issues. A former Roosevelt High School student in the audience applauded the work being done and recalled that when he attended the school from 2005 to 2009 his school mates were not allowed to host Jumuah on campus. He was delighted

that things had changed over the course of the past few years. Daryl Williams, Prince George’s County Public School (PGCPS) Chief of Student Services, took personal time out of his schedule to lay out the policies of the PGCPS in regards to practicing religion in public schools. In accordance with federal law, students have a right to enjoy substantial and meaningful freedom of speech, press, assembly, and religion and PGCPS administrative policies adhere to the law. He said that students have a right to individual and group prayers during a school day. He pronounced that public schools may not inculcate nor inhibit religion. They must be places where religion and religious conviction are treated with fairness and respect. Williams informed the audience that students may express their beliefs about religion in the form of homework, artwork, and other written and oral assignments free of discrimination based on the religious content of their submissions. Head dresses can be worn for religious reasons with acceptable documentation in PG County (as some students tend to wear kufis etc. as a fashion statement). At Bowie High, this is a verbal and unwritten policy, according to Hassan’s

parents. Naadira shared that at her school, students could not switch in and out of headgear, once given permission to wear it for religious purposes. The only religious exemption from a mandatory school uniform policy in PG County is intended to ensure that students are allowed to wear religious attire, like a hijab, kipa, or turban. Azim Chowdhury, a lawyer and civil rights director with Council of American Islamic Relations (Maryland chapter) explained that the First Amendment protects individuals from government interference with religious beliefs. Chowdhury also explained the Establishment Clause to the attendees. He said under the Free Exercise of Religion clause all people are free to practice religion. Public schools uphold the First Amendment when they protect the religious liberty rights of students of all faiths or none. Students have the right to be excused from activities and class discussions, if these impinge on their religious beliefs, said Chowdhury. Chowdhury advised attendees to ex>> pray II Pg 25

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October 11th - November 7th 2013 pray II

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plain Islamic concepts, such as the time limits of the five daily prayers to school principals while asking permission. Organizations such as CAIR-MD advocate on behalf of students and families. At the request of county residents, Chowdhury has spoken to the legal counsel at PGCPS to explain these concepts. A parent from Charles County attending the panel asked whether getting federal funding diminishes these rights, as he was informed by the principal at his son’s school that his son could not be excused for Jumuah salah since the school received a federal grant. He was advised by both Chowdhury and Williams that federal dollars don’t prohibit the opportunity to practice, but that he should get in touch with the legal counsel in his school district. Earlier this year Parkdale High School students’ permission to be excused from class for a few minutes for dhuhr prayers was revoked by the Board of Education based on out of state pressure from extreme anti-Muslim groups.

CONTINUED | 25 The Parent Teachers Association and the First Amendment Center asserts that ‘sensitive and thoughtful school officials may easily grant many religious requests without raising constitutional questions.’ According to its booklet designed for teachers in public school, ‘Muslim students, for example, may need a quiet place at lunch or during breaks to fulfill their prayer obligation during the school day.’ As long as honoring these requests is feasible, school officials should do so in the spirit of the First Amendment. The guide also says that the onus of monitoring adherence to a religious activity is on the parents and not the teachers. Williams points out that as long as the requests are not disruptive. Disruptive is the key word. What qualifies as disruptive is left at the discretion of individual principals. ‘My experience has been that it is a school by school decision,” he said. Principals decide each school's established standards. Williams also said that it is the county's responsibility that incoming principals are trained and receive information about these rights.

these rights or don’t know how to implement them. They misunderstand the the clause on separation of church and state and see granting permission as equivalent of support to a particular religion. Parents have to learn to assert their rights. Johnson also expressed that parents should ask “how can we help the school system?” Imam Azzari attended the event with many from his congregation. He often has to write letters to the school asking permission on behalf of students. Imam Azzari brought up that parents also have to work with principals as there is a dearth of qualified khateebs for Jumuah, and some principals whom he has met with, have relayed concerns about hosting speakers who may have extreme views. Cautioning the audience not to get emotional, he urged them to work with the schools.

Students may distribute literature, advertise their events, use the PA system and bulletin board and other school facilities in the same way other groups use. Katrina Weaver, a staff member from PGCPS, expressed her concerns about discrimination faced by Muslim staff members while working in the school district. Other attendees also brought up concerns about bullying and staff harassment to Williams. Attendees noted that the PG County Muslim community would have benefited greatly if imams and leaders from other masjid communities had attended. “This is a good, first start,” says board member Kareem Abdus-Salam, ”we don't run away from the issue, despite the environment; we have to deal with the issues, with hikmah (wisdom). Allah will allow us to prevail.”

Another point brought up was that student religious groups such as the Muslim Students Associations have the same right of access to school facilities at public secondary schools as enjoyed by other secular student groups.

A beginning of a partnership between the community, county and schools emerged by the end of the event, which is beneficial for all involved.

in prison and came out to become the first black president of his country. “If it could be done over there, it could be done anywhere”, he said. He also talked about Steve Biko who was the most famous one known by all to be killed in prison but “an Imam was also killed in that prison and another [Muslim] prisoner was thrown from the 10th floor to his death”, he told the audience. He said courage is what it takes to be peaceful in a violent world.

said one of the main reasons he came to the CAIR banquet this year was to listen to Ambassador Rasool.

*name changed to protect privacy

Many principals are not informed of

CAIR

his prophethood.

>> continued from pg 8

was called and known by his countrymen before the advent of his prophethood, as “Al Amine” (the trustworthy). When his wife Aisha was asked about him after he departed from this world, she said his character was the Qur'an. Ambassador Rasool stressed that before people would be willing to listen to your message, or to take you as their fellow countrymen, they must trust you as the Quraysh trusted the Prophet Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam before and after

Rasool also condemned sectarianism, and stressed the need for Muslims to focus on the common core values of Islam like trustworthiness, compassion, and responsibility. He talked at length about his country South Africa where 300 years ago, his people were taken as slaves from South East Asia while Africans were being brought in the Americas as slaves. His country overcame the most horrendous calamity of the century, apartheid, and he reminded the gathering of the beautiful example of Nelson Mandela who spent 27 years

The Ambassador received a standing ovation for his remarks. Imam Siraj Wahaj who conducted the fundraising

Keynote speaker Glenn Greenwald -the civil rights attorney and activist who broke the Edward Snowden / NSA story -- could not make it to the function due to his fear of being arrested by the United States. He sent a video where he expressed his admiration for the work CAIR is doing and asked the gathering to continue to support CAIR as “whatever is done to a minority doesn’t just stop there, it will eventually spread to the other members of society”.

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CONTINUED | 27

iswa

>> continued from pg 1

them into its womb. Strangers become friends, friends became uncles, uncles became father in laws. Forty years later, young men whose grandfathers first set the foundation, in ties and starched pastel shirts escort guests from their cars to the front porch of ISWA, in Silver Springs, MD, shielding them from the pouring rain. A charming nine year old hands coffee mugs wrapped in ribbons commemorating ISWA’s 40 years of existence and thanks the guests for attending the festivities. Over the course of the years, the flavor of ISWA has changed, now the new center completed in 2010 is populated with many races, ethnicities and nationalities. The center’s beliefs are that the Ummah in Islam is not founded on race, nationality, locality, occupation, kinship, or special interest, and this was evident by the range of volunteers at the event. “Our diversity is stunning, as the world grows more complex, our unity grows,” says Sheik Zamal Housein. ”We enjoy it every day and want everyone to utilize this space,” echoes Riyad Alie, who served as the Master of Ceremonies and sits on the board of directors. They celebrated their 40th anniversary with speeches by Imam Faizal Khan, Nihad Awad of CAIR-National, the ambassador of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Muhammad Sanousi from Islamic Socoiety North America, and the President of Montgomery County Council Nancy Navarro. Among the 200 attendees of the evening dinner, many came from Northern Virginia because they love the community. West Indian sweets were handed out and commemorative balloons kept the young ones occupied. “This,” pointing to the building, Dr. Fazil Alie President of ISWA from 1998-2011 professed, ”was done with a lot of love, by families who care about their heritage.” A integral part of ISWA since the inception in 1972, Alie led the organization through the challenging times-when the community had to make use of a neighborhood church for congregational prayers, hold Ramadan

CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad congratulates the ISWA community on their 40th year anniversary. From right, Imam Faizul Khan, founding member Dr. Fazil Alie, and current president Zamal Housein. Photo by Muslim Link. tarawih at Montgomery College and local high schools during construction. But his greatest test was when Islam and the Muslim community faced its greatest challenge; from easy going American citizens to his community facing ‘badgering and Islamophobia’, much like the rest of the country's American Muslims. There were police cars parked in front of his house for one entire year after 9/11 to find out what kind of person he was, he said. “We were in the middle of reconstruction, I thought this isn’t a good time to build a masjid [in the middle of a recession] but we forged ahead.” No one bank rolled this community; the people of this community made this masjid, he stressed. They built the masjid with their own hands, subcontracting only the plumbing, roofing and electrical. The masjid was paid for in cash-- interest-free-and their American dream came true. Community recognition awards were announced by Imran Mohammed, secretary of the Board of ISWA to former presidents Dr. Shaikh Hassan, Dr. Fazil Alie and to the ‘backbone of the community’, Imam Faizal Khan. The current president Sheik Zamal Housein was also recognized.

Youth from the community presented recitation of the Quran with translation. The board of directors aim to be very approachable. Their photos are on the masjid’s social media pages and they welcome comments from community members. President Zamal Housein paid tribute to the volunteers and the founding members present and those who have passed away. One of the founders is Sarah Khan’s grandmother, Nora Kazim. She used to tell Imam Faizal Khan ‘I know just the right girl for your son Zaf, my granddaughter.’ Sarah and Zaf were the first community couple married in ISWA. In the 21 years that they have been married, they have seen the community bloom. “The challenge was that at first we didn’t have the facility to deal the vast amount of people and then with the different cultures and [instead of just people] from West Indies, but Imam Faizal (dad) has been a rock of unity. “We are trying to bring the [young professional] back into the masjid,”said Sarah. The youth are really involved, added Zaf Khan. Falisha Alie, the chair of of the planning committee for the anniversary, was a little girl when she first met her husband Riyad; they grew up together in the ISWA community. “When we were

young, we all used to go the farm during Eid ul Adha; we would run around and play together,” reminisces Riyad. During college they worked together arranging Toys for Tots for the children in the ISWA community for Eid. Working for the community sealed the bond that had developed, and in between Falisha organizing events for the girls and Riyad writing lists for the boys they found they had compatibility, and got their parents involved. “I was delighted,” says Riyad’s mother, as she stops by the table covered with luxe damask coverings laden with desserts and white roses, where Falisha and Riyad sat during the dinner they helped plan. One of the desserts served were slices from a show-stopping replica of the ISWA masjid made of chocolate cake with almond frosting by a community member, Nafisa Deen. Imam Faizal performed their nikah. “Our parents help build this community. Both of us were active in fundraising for the masjid and stayed involved”; while lot of people in their age group haven’t. Riyad says that the masjid is top heavy and bottom heavy, but peo-

>> iswa II Pg 29

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CONTINUED | 29 memoriza

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meaning can be understood and one can ponder and reflect on it. He shared that one should implement what he reads because the sahabah of the Prophet took ten verses at a time, memorized it, understood it, and then implemented it before moving on to the next set. He said that it is more convenient for every Muslim, male or female, old or young, living today to memorize the Qur’an because it is available more easily than the times of the past. In the ancient days, people had to walk many miles just to learn and understand the Qur’an. But we live in a world where technology is a part of our life. We live in a world where we can access the Qur’an at any place or time. ‘With the inventions of iPods, smartphones, tablets and [other] advanced technologies, we can read and listen to Qur’an from various reciters.’ Towards the end of the halaqah, the sheikh answered questions on techniques of memorizing the Qur’an and encouraged people to strive to memorize as much of it as they can. He talked about people who truly tried, but could not memorize will be excused and will be given a reward of every letter they recited. Sheikh Sukkar stated that every person will have a different experience. Some are able to accelerate at a faster rate, while others take more time to digest. He advised to the audience to never give up because Allah will test the memorizer with many different tests and trials. He also said to maintain the review of what was previously memorized because as you age it becomes more difficult to remember.

iswa II

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ple in their 20, 30s, 40s need to get involved. Riyad wants to make the masjid a place where people want to hang out - a destination, not a pitstop. “We want to revamp the basement into a lounge,” says Riyad tells the Muslim Link, as old friends stop by to exchange salams. While Falisha was putting the maga-

zine (filled with heart-felt testimonials) together to commemorate the 40th anniversary, she found photos of her daughter with a young girl posing on every Eid. “I used to come in with [that little girl’s] mom; our girls are spending time just as her mom and I use to spend time together.” Riyad and Falisha and their two children drive nearly 30 minutes, on the intercounty connector from North Potomac, to come to ISWA and think it is ‘totally worth it.’ “[Our friends] are starting to have kids

and we want to have them remember what it feels like to be a part of this community; we forget as we get busy in our daily lives. They are using Facebook and other social media, telling their friends “hey, we are having this event at the masjid, come and bring the kids.” This generation looks forward to celebrating many more years at this diverse and welcoming hub of Muslim activity, and to many more weddings, babies and memories.

As people age they lose faculties of their memory, “that’s why it is better to memorize when you are young because it is the age when your mind is young and fresh,” he said. The sheikh finished his talk with the advice, “When you watch a horror movie and you sleep, the pictures are etched into your brain while you sleep. Likewise, if you recite the verses that you want to memorize at night before sleep, it will become easy for you to memorize the next day.”

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30 | CONTINUED LEADER

JOB OPENING:

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Facilities Manager

acquire handheld computers for inspectors in the field. He also is pursuing software that will enable multiple reviewers to examine permit applications at the same time, which should speed reviews that previously took months, he said. So far, there have been few reported problems and many kudos from businesses and community members, with whom Hijazi meets regularly. Baker thinks Hijazi has gotten off to a good start. “Many people in county government find an excuse to stop something from happening,” said former County Council chairman Tom Dernoga (D-Laurel). “He doesn’t use red tape as an excuse to do nothing but tries to find a way to make it work. That’s the engineer in him.” As the permitting process undergoes change, Hijazi also is trying to improve community inspections. He hopes to persuade the County Council to set up a new administrative review to bypass the courts and make it easier to impose penalties and eliminate blight. Hijazi expects soon to create a database to more closely track problem properties. While the county has an inventory of 1,860 foreclosed properties, there is no single place to check their condition or legal status, or the county’s response. “We need to become more efficient and productive,” Hijazi said. Soltesz’s Dunn, who is a vice president of the MarylandNational Capital Building Industry Association, said the introduction of firm deadlines for the county to respond to applications has been a big plus. He also said the new system is far more explicit about what documents the applicant must provide, something that was missing in the past. “It is more of a team effort,” he said. “It’s refreshing.”

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at Islamic Society of Baltimore

Islamic Society of Baltimore, a nonprofit 501-C(3) organization, located in Baltimore, MD is a thriving and ever expanding Islamic campus housing a full time Islamic School, Hifdh school and a nursery, a weekend school and al-Rahmah masjid is looking to hire a part-time/full time facilities manager immediately. We encourage suitable candidates to read the full job description and send their complete resumes to jobs@isb.org. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. ISB Facilities Manager Duties & Qualifications: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Develop and recommend plans for regular preventative maintenance of major items to prevent breakdowns Keep the facility clean, attractive and well maintained, inside and out Fixing leaky pipes and broken water fountains Unplugging toilets and sinks, floor care, restroom sanitation Replace light bulbs, covers or ballasts and install fans, wiring outlets and switches Diagnose, Repair and maintain all HVAC systems >> sajda Pg 30 Maintain life safety, fire, and security infrastructure including locks, fire extinguishers, and lights Work closely with event staff for program set up / break down Manage deadlines and quality control for facilities related projects Craft and maintain the facilities budget Act as the single point of contact for vendors and the congregation Keep accurate records of expenses and maintenance Good written and verbal communication skills General knowledge of building maintenance, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning & custodial skills Any other duties as assigned Expected to act with integrity and respect while performing his tasks Working unusual shifts, especially before and after events to ensure the property is cleaned and readied for the ISB use is mandatory

But in Landover’s Columbia Park neighborhood, there is concern that bureaucratic reshuffling won’t fix many of the community’s problems, such as the vacant house that has plagued the community for more than two decades, and where repeated complaints by residents have failed to get much attention. “It has been a big problem for years,” said civic association president Mary

Brigham, who hopes Hijazi finally will be able to level the house. So does Hijazi. But the bulldozer might not arrive for a while. The legal details have taken more time than he would like. “That is going to be a challenge, and we need to work on it,” he said. ###

In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.

October 11th - November 7th 2013

National News

NATIONAL NEWS| 31

Colorado Muslims Rebuild After Floods

By Muslim Link Staff In two days this past September, about 26 inches of rain fell on Boulder, Colorado. It was far more than the area’s average annual precipitation of 20.7 inches. Over 19,000 homes and other structures were destroyed or damaged; among them was the Islamic Center of Boulder. Found in the late 1970s by a group of students at the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU Boulder), for thirty years ICB survived in a two-room, 1500 square foot apartment. The only masjid in a 15-20 miles radius, two years ago ICB bought an old church building and were getting ready to complete their renovations to the new facility, to make it into a functioning masjid, until the rain started. “The neighborhood around the masjid was seriously damaged,” says Hadi, a volunteer at the masjid for the past 13 years. “I was in masjid Wednesday; the rain had started and [the basement] started to flood. We could see that the drainage was not able to keep up with

rain.” Community members stepped in wet vacs in hand, trying to steadily pump the water out on Thursday. What they didn’t realize when they started calling around for more volunteers was that the entire region was severely flooded. Internet and phones were down, road were blocked and only a few people made it out to the masjid. “On Thursday evening people couldn’t reach the masjid to help as roads were not accessible,” says Hadi. There was no loss of life in Muslim community. Over the next several days, largest airlift since Katrina took place as the National Guard rescued thousands of people from the mountains that surround the idyllic city. Books from Sunday school, racks, the fridge, freezers, table and chairs used for Ramadan Iftars, and prayer carpets were submerged in the water and destroyed. Hadi and his team of volunteers worked quickly over the week to remove all the damaged carpeting and dry wall, bleaching it before mold could settle in. Damage in the basement alone

was about 10,000 sq ft. The first floor was also affected.

need professionals- we need money for that.”

Masjid officials received the same news as most others in the region: flood insurance doesn’t cover a majority of flood damage. Just getting rid of the waterdamaged items is very costly.

ICNA Relief USA National Disaster Response Team members from Florida, Tennessee, New Jersey, and Louisiana deployed to Boulder once roads were passable. “They said they will help us and fan out to help need other families in need,” says Hadi.

Federal Emergency Management Agency spokesman William Rukeyser said of the 10,190 households statewide that have applied for FEMA assistance, 7,685 are in Boulder County. FEMA so far has given out $4.3 million in assistance. A broad range of private nonprofit organizations qualify for federal disaster assistance grants, but houses of worship do not. Seventy percent of the ICB community is students. “We are not rich people here; this is really taking a big toll to our community,” explained Hadi. The contractors roll into town and the Islamic Center is looking at bids. The center thinks it will cost $250,000 to make it usuable.“We are getting quotes from contractors, there are many things we can do ourselves but some things

The Boulder Muslim community is also asking permission from Islamic Centers in the DC Metro Area to host them for fundraising. People can donate online through the website or send tax-deductible donations to the following address. “Remember us in your duas and if the situation allows donate geneourously for this cause,” said Hadi. Send donations to: Islamic Center of Boulder, 5495 Baseline Road, Boulder, CO 80303 Phine 720-340-1530. Contact.icb@ gmail.com www.bouldermuslims.com

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Demand For US-Born Imams Up In American Mosques By Associated Press

lamic faith leaders.

marathon bombing suspects did.

cheek title "Cover Girl."

"It's a realization that assimilation is happening and it's going to happen. Now, how do we control it, how do we channel it?" he said. "These congregations, if they do not provide the services that the congregants expect, then they will not survive."

"I would say either American imams will learn how to be spiritual leaders of these young people or Islam will not flourish in the United States," Clayton said.

Murphy, the son of an Egyptian immigrant mother and an Irish-American convert, was kicked out of a private Islamic middle school and strayed from the faith in high school — an experience he always keeps in mind.

Saturday, September 21, 2013 ANAHEIM, Calif. — Mustafa Umar,

an imam in Southern California, is popular with the Muslim teenagers who attend his mosque. They pepper him with questions about sensitive topics like marijuana use, dating and pornography. Umar, 31, is a serious Islamic scholar who has studied the Quran in the Middle East, Europe and India — but he's also a native Californian, who is well-versed in social media and pop culture, and can connect with teens on their own terms. That pedigree is rare — 85 percent of fulltime, paid imams in the U.S. are foreign-born — but the demand for people like him is growing as American Muslim leaders look for ways to keep the religion relevant for young people in a secular country that cherishes freedom of expression. "That's all you hear in every mosque around the country now: 'We need someone who can connect with the youth.' And everyone is waiting for that person, like he's a superhero who can come and save the day," said Umar, who started his job nine months ago. With a foot in both traditional Islam and U.S. pop culture, leaders like Umar are trying to help young Muslims embrace their American experience without letting go of Islamic traditions. It's part of a broader trend toward a more American style of congregational worship that includes everything from vibrant youth groups to health clinics to community service projects. "The demand for American-born imams is an articulation of something much deeper," said Timur Yuskaev, director of the Islamic chaplaincy program at Hartford Seminary in Connecticut, which educates Is-

....

For Umar, part of the strategy means confronting things like pre-marital sex, drugs and porn head-on — taboos in Islam but temptations that

Still, young Islamic leaders in the U.S. are clear that things like the five daily prayers, modest interaction between men and women, and bans on alcohol and pre-marital sex are inseparable from being Muslim. But

"We can't change what's inside the package, but we can repackage it," said Murphy, who tweets about college basketball and his faith.

Mosques that remain insular, focus on ethnic identity and don't engage with the realities of being Muslim in America won't survive, he said.

Umar's mosque, the Islamic Institute of Orange County, recently started monthly meetings that follow a game-show format, with two imams answering questions that teens text to an anonymous hotline. The organizers were shocked when there were questions about masturbation, drugs, porn, dating and drinking.

abound in America. Umar, a huge soccer fan, also bonds with his young charges over sports before gently steering the conversation back to faith.

The sessions opened a much-needed dialogue about how to be successful as a Muslim and an American, said Samina Mohammad, who oversees the youth program.

"He was just like us. He played sports, he studied for school just like us," said 17-year-old Tarek Soubra, recalling the day he met Umar. "It was, like, 'Oh, he's just like our friend.' It was really cool."

in America, the application of those rules can look different. Teens go on co-ed field trips, for example, but chaperones are present. Mosques put on girls-only dances during high school prom season. And Islamic seminars for young adults take part in auditoriums divided down the middle by gender, said Nouman Ali Khan, 35, who founded Bayyinah, an Arabic institute in Dallas.

This informal approach is controversial with some Muslims, but those objections overlook the inevitable assimilation that's rapidly taking place, said Philip Clayton, provost at Claremont Lincoln University, which recently started a program for American Islamic leaders.

"There are some guidelines in Islam that are there and they're not going to be compromised," he said. "But these things are unfairly assumed to mean that we're not social people and that we're not going to be successful in society."

Mosques that remain insular, focus on ethnic identity and don't engage with the realities of being Muslim in America won't survive, he said. And the more engaged imams and mosques become, the less likely confused youth are to turn to radicalized forms of Islam, the way the Boston

AbdelRahman Murphy, a 25-yearold assistant imam in Knoxville, Tenn., is striking that balance with his newly founded Muslim youth group called Roots. Kids play sports, battle it out in video-game playing contests or strut in a girls' Muslim fashion show with the tongue-in-

Mohammad, 28, recently told a youth group how she secretly removed her head scarf on the way to school for two years because she loved her hair. Then, she attended a session for teens where, instead of lecturing about the importance of the head scarf, the imam compared a covered Muslim woman to a beautiful pearl hidden within an oyster. "It really hit home for me because I didn't understand that beauty was such a part of it," she said. "I was trying to find my identity and I realized, 'Oh, he makes sense. That's what I need to do.'" In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.

October 11th - November 7th 2013

Civil Rights

WORLD PRESS | 33

Was US Born Cleric Anwar Al-Awlaki a Government Informant? By Associated Press October 05, 2013, Associated Press Lawyers for a Muslim scholar convicted in 2005 of soliciting treason on Friday pressed a judge to order prosecutors to disclose information they believe could show that American-born al-Qaida leader Anwar al-Awlaki was once a government informant. Ali Al-Timimi of Fairfax was the spiritual leader for a group of northern Virginia Muslims who played paintball to train for holy war. He was convicted and sentenced to life in prison for exhorting some of them to join the Taliban and fight against the U.S. after the Sept. 11 attacks. Several of them got as far as Pakistan, training with a militant group called Lashkar-e-Taiba.

ernment’s crosshairs back in 2002, which would have contradicted other testimony that the government did not begin investigating alTimimi until 2003. The suspicions about al-Awlaki stem from newly discovered information that FBI agents involved in Al-Timimi’s case may have facilitated al-Awlaki’s return to the United States in 2002. Al-Awlaki had been imam of a northern Virginia mosque at the time of the 2001 attacks but left the U.S. shortly thereafter. He had contact with some of the Sept. 11 hijackers, and in years after the 2001 attacks emerged as a top al-Qaida leader before being killed in a drone strike in 2011. There has been debate as to whether al-Awlaki hid long-held al-Qaida sympathies in his time in the U.S. or radicalized

after leaving the years after Sept. 11. Also released earlier this year were FBI documents showing that agents observed al-Awlaki in 2001 and 2002 hiring prostitutes, but never brought charges against him. Prosecutors say they’ve turned over everything required of them. In court papers and at Friday’s hearing, they gave no information on whether al-Awlaki may have been an informant. Instead, they say they are only obligated to turn over information that would assist the defense, and said the law gives prosecutors the discretion to make that determination. The law “does not entitle any defendant to the disclosure of the extent and nature of the government’s investigative tools or tactics simply

because he suspects that materials are in the government’s possession that might prove interesting to him,” prosecutor Gordon Kromberg wrote. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema said she will issue a written ruling later on the motion, but expressed doubt about the defense requests. She said she was persuaded in part because of secret evidence the government submitted in the case, which even Turley, who holds a security clearance, has not been allowed to see. Al-Timimi attended Friday’s hearing but did not speak, wearing a jail jumpsuit and sporting long hair and a beard significantly grayer than at his 2005 trial.

Al-Timimi’s lawyers said Friday at a hearing in U.S. District Court in Alexandria that they are suspicious about a 2002 visit al-Awlaki paid to al-Timimi. The defense now suspects al-Awlaki, who has since been killed, went there as an informant to get incriminating information on alTimimi. If so, they say al-Awlaki’s role as an informant should have been disclosed at trial. At the meeting, al-Awlaki purportedly tried to get al-Timimi’s help in recruiting men for jihad, but al-Timimi rejected him. AlTimimi’s lawyer, Jonathan Turley, said government documentation of the meeting would refute the case made at trial by prosecutors that al-Timimi was urging Muslims to fight. They also say it would show that al-Timimi had been in the gov-

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34 | CIVIL RIGHTS

World Press

October 11th - November 7th 2013

UK Paid £3,000 Compensation for Afghans Killed by its Military Rights groups claim payouts are pitifully low and do not give families sufficient help Brian Brady The Independent, September 22, 2013 The families of almost 200 innocent victims of British military activity in Afghanistan have been compensated with barely £3,000 each, the Government has revealed.

The Ministry of Defence has paid out £563,000 to settle “common law claims” arising from the deaths of 185 civilian men, women and children since 2007, according to figures obtained by The Independent. The “fatality claims” include the deaths of Afghan civilians in botched air-strikes, crossfire and road accidents involving British forces who have been fighting the Taliban for more

Many Americans See Syria as Sign of Bible's End Times Jeremy Weber Christianity Today, 9/13/2013 Should the United States bomb Syria? Your answer might depend on your eschatology (whether Christian or Muslim). LifeWay Research noticed how the Syrian conflict has prompted discussion of the End Times (i.e. dispensationalism) unlike previous debates over American intervention in foreign affairs. So it did a survey and found some surprising results:

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than a decade. Over the past seven years, officials have sanctioned compensation totalling almost £340,000 to settle 194 cases where civilians were accidentally injured by British forces – at an average of £1,750 a time. The MoD said on Sunday night that civilians making claims were treated “with no lower priority than UK Armed Forces personnel”. But pressure groups claimed the size of payments for people who had sometimes lost a breadwinner or their entire family was pitifully low – far less than the amounts paid to UK troops injured in combat in Afghanistan, for whom the average payout was £73,000. “It has been clear all along that compensation payments for harm to Afghan civilians have been low, inconsistent and ad hoc,” said Heather Barr, a senior researcher for Human Rights Watch in Afghanistan. “Afghan families often rely on one or two members to support a large extended family. Should the

Almost one in three Americans see Syria's recent conflict as part of the Bible's plan for the end times. One in four think that a U.S. military strike in Syria could lead to Armageddon. One in five believes the world will end in their lifetime. Ed Stetzer (now joined by Bob Smietana, previously at TheTennessean) explores the full results—inlcuding that women (36%) are more likely than men (28%) to link Syria and the Bible—in a post worth reading. But for comparison: Barna recently found that "41 percent of all U.S. adults, 54 percent of Protestants, and 77 percent of evangelicals

civilian killed be such a breadwinner, £3,000 would do no more than hold off destitution for the family for a year or two.” The number of ordinary Afghans harmed in the battle with the Taliban continues to rise, despite preparations for the withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan within 18 months. A report from the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (Unama) last month revealed that 1,319 Afghan civilians were killed and 2,533 injured in the first six months of 2013 – 23 per cent more than in the same period last year. Most of these casualties were caused by improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and “complex attacks”. “Progovernment forces” – including Afghan army and police, and international troops – were blamed for 9 per cent of the casualties, while 12 per cent were unattributed and resulted from ground engagements between pro-government forces and “anti-government elements”.

believe the world is now living in the biblical end times." The online poll of 1,000 American adults found that those most likely to believe this include African Americans (54%), Hispanics (48%), married adults (46%), and families that had children living at home (47%). PRRI recently found that nearly 4 in 10 Americans (and 65 percent of white evangelicals) believe recent natural disasters are evidence of the End Times, while 15 percent of Americans (and 29 percent of white evangelicals) believe that the end of the world, as predicted in the Book of Revelation, will occur in their lifetimes. Reuters recently found that "nearly 15 percent of people worldwide believe the world will end during their lifetime." According to its survey of more than

Unama recorded 49 civilian deaths and 41 injuries from air strikes by pro-government forces, 30 per cent less than in 2012, but it raised concerns over “the disproportionate loss of civilian life and injury” from two air strikes in the spring. The report also recorded 15 civilian deaths and seven injuries in seven incidents involving unmanned aerial vehicles which had “appeared to target anti-government elements”. An MoD spokesman said civilian claims were considered against “an agreed set of criteria”, including the victim’s contribution to the family income, the severity of any injuries, and their “culpability or involvement with insurgents”. He added: “Cases are considered and justified on their merit… There is an effective system for handling claims for compensation brought against the Ministry of Defence by Afghan civilians and we have an area claims officer located in Lashkar Gah.”

16,000 people in more than 20 countries, those in the United States and Turkey believe this the most, while those in France, Belgium, and Great Britain believe this the least. CT recently noted how American evangelical leaders took their own surprising vote on whether to bomb Syria, as well as examined whether Syria's Christian should be the top priority of American Christians. CT also recently noted the death of the filmmaker who launched the End Times movie genre, and has regularly covered Syria, the End Times, eschatology, and dispensationalism.

October 11th - November 7th 2013

ISLAM | 35

Islam

Prophet Muhammad's Last Sermon: A Final Admonition By Amatullah Abdullah

ondly, this was the year where number of deputations came to the Prophet to announce their Islam as well as their tribes. Thirdly, it was the golden period of Islam when multitudes of people embraced the faith by accepting the message of the Prophet.

(edited by IslamReligion.com) Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) was born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia circa 570 C.E. He is an example for all of humanity. He was a remarkable man at all times. He excelled in all walks of life by being a prophet, ruler, orator, soldier, husband, friend, father, uncle, nephew, and a grandfather. He was a man of love, patience, courage, wisdom, generosity, intelligence and magnitude who inspired millions of lives throughout the world. Allah says in the Quran that he was sent as a mercy for the people of the world: “We sent thee not save as a mercy for the peoples.” (Quran 21:107) His Prophetic Mission began at the age of forty, circa 610 C.E., and continued until 632 C.E. From the path of ignorance, mankind was lead to the straight path and was blessed with the guidance

of Allah. Shortly before his death, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) delivered a sermon during the Hajj, which came to be known as his “Final Sermon”. This final sermon was not only a reminder to his followers, but also an important admonition. The fi-

nal sermon confirms the end of his Prophetic Mission. Year 10 A.H. of the Islamic Calendar is considered to be one of the most significant years for three reasons. Firstly, this was the year when the Prophet delivered his Last Sermon during his farewell pilgrimage to Mecca. Sec-

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) undertook his farewell pilgrimage in the year 10 A.H. His farewell pilgrimage to Mecca is one of the most significant historical events in the minds of Muslims, for it was the first and last pilgrimage made by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) , as well as being the model for performing the fifth pillar of Islam, the Hajj. Prophet Muhammad's (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) final sermon was delivered during the Hajj of the year 632 C.E.,

>> SERMON Pg 37

Oblivious Blessings How a chance meeting opened my eyes to the unacknowledged miracles within us By Huma Imam He fidgeted uncomfortably on his seat as he nudged his elbow to discreetly push back the loop of a plastic tube that was sticking out from the side of his wheel-chair. I lowered my head and pretended to re-check my audio-recorder in order to give him time to adjust himself, without the embarrassment of being observed. Brother Salim* is a paraplegic and he is paralysed from the waist down. I was meeting him for an interview for a local newspaper about life in a wheel-chair. Before our scheduled interview, he had

kindly sent me books and videos describing the details of his physical condition as well as the everyday challenges faced by people with paraplegia and quadriplegia. Therefore, I was aware of the purpose of that plastic tube that showed up accidentally. That tube was part of a urinary catheter. The interview went fine, but I returned home a changed person. His story kept resonating in my mind. A sea diving accident had turned his life around: from an energetic air traffic controller to a sedate office worker; from a newly married man to a divorcee; from a physically fit athlete to a wheel-chair bound invalid.

bling sense of gratitude. "Truly, to Allah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return" (Al Baqarah: 156). Our Creator tests all of us in different ways. I prayed to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) to grant him patience, and to lighten his burden. I also supplicated to Him to keep me protected from such trials. But that meeting had awoken another sensation inside me, a feeling that perhaps began as a faint quiver in my core on first seeing him, then grew to an intense throbbing with the blood flowing in every vein, till it reached a point that rattled and shook my very soul: a hum-

"Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both (jinns and men) deny?" (Ar-Rahman:13). My mind was crowded with questions. Have I ever consciously expressed gratitude to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) for my ability to move? Have I truly appreciated my Creator for giving me a perfect body? Have I ever realised that even when I'm sitting, my legs continue to work for me by providing balance? Have I ever thanked my Lord for the >> BLESSINGS Pg 36

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

36 | ISLAM

Salaah times for October 11th - November 7th , 2013

If a person had a stream outside his door and he bathed in it fi ve times a day, do you think he would have any fi lth 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.

BLESSINGS

>> continued from pg 35

ability to effortlessly relieve myself? Yes, to be able to answer the call of nature in privacy and with dignity is a great blessing of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala), something I had never realised before. Brother Salim, due to his condition caused by damage to the spinal cord, is unable to feel when he needs to go to the bathroom so he has to wear a catheter. And when he does go to the toilet, he requires the help of a nurse to clean him. I remember a saying of one of our pious predecessors: "If a man is able to drink and expel a sip of water with ease,

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Day Fri Sat

Date OCT 11 12

Hijri 6/12 7/12

Fajr 6:02 6:03

Sunrise 7:13 7:14

Dhuhr 12:55 12:55

Asr 4:06 4:05

Maghrib 6:36 6:34

Isha 7:48 7:47

Sun Mon

13 14

8/12 9/12

6:04 6:05

7:15 7:16

12:55 12:54

4:03 4:02

6:33 6:31

7:46 7:44

Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 NOV 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

10/12 11/12 12/12 13/12 14/12 15/12 16/12 17/12 18/12 19/12 20/12 21/12 22/12 23/12 24/12 25/12 26/12 27/12 28/12 29/12 1/1 2/1 3/1 4/1

6:06 6:07 6:08 6:09 6:10 6:11 6:11 6:12 6:13 6:14 6:15 6:16 6:17 6:18 6:19 6:20 6:21 6:22 6:23 5:24 5:25 5:26 5:27 5:28

7:17 7:18 7:19 7:20 7:21 7:22 7:23 7:24 7:25 7:27 7:28 7:29 7:30 7:31 7:32 7:33 7:34 7:35 7:36 6:37 6:38 6:39 6:41 6:42

12:54 12:54 12:54 12:54 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:53 12:52 12:52 12:52 12:52 12:52 12:52 12:52 11:52 11:52 11:52 11:52 11:52

4:01 4:00 3:59 3:58 3:57 3:56 3:55 3:54 3:53 3:52 3:51 3:50 3:49 3:48 3:47 3:46 3:45 3:44 3:43 2:42 2:42 2:41 2:40 2:39

6:30 6:28 6:27 6:25 6:24 6:23 6:21 6:20 6:19 6:17 6:16 6:15 6:14 6:12 6:11 6:10 6:09 6:08 6:07 5:06 5:04 5:03 5:02 5:01

7:43 7:41 7:40 7:39 7:37 7:36 7:35 7:34 7:32 7:31 7:30 7:29 7:28 7:26 7:25 7:24 7:23 7:22 7:21 6:20 6:19 6:18 6:18 6:17

gratitude becomes due on him." Putting all other infinite attributes aside, I pondered and focused over just this one aspect of my body's blessings and it left me in awe.

humbled and filled with gratitude at the realisation that many have to suffer the pain of indignity and shame for this natural function of the human body.

"And in your creation, and what He scattered (through the earth) of moving (living) creatures are signs for people who have Faith with certainty" (AlJathiya: 4).

Realisation is the first step towards true thankfulness. "No blessing is bestowed on a slave and he realises that it is from Allah, but the reward of giving gratitude for it is written for him..." (Patience and Gratitude by Ibn Al-Qayyim).

As a child I had been taught to utter the words of dhikr before and after going to the bathroom. I knew their meanings, but over the years, the remembrance had become a mindless reflex action. That is, until that day. Today, when I utter the word "Ghufranaka" as I leave the washroom, my mind is attentive and aware of the meaning, and my heart is

I owe my Creator the highest gratitude, so I aim to busy myself with ways of expressing it. The Messenger of Allah (S) said: "There is a (compulsory) Sadaqa to be given for every joint of the human body (as a sign of gratitude to Allah) everyday the sun rises. To judge justly between two persons is regarded as Sadaqa, and to help a man concern-

ing his riding animal by helping him to ride it or by lifting his luggage on to it, is also regarded as Sadaqa, and (saying) a good word is also Sadaqa, and every step taken on one's way to offer the compulsory prayer (in the mosque) is also Sadaqa and to remove a harmful thing from the way is also Sadaqa" (Bukhari). -----------------------------------*Name changed to protect the privacy of the individual . Huma Imam is a U.A.E. based freelance writer with qualifications in Home Sciences. She has experience in voluntary work with Islamic centres and occasionally speaks at sisters' halaqas.

October 11th - November 7th 2013 SERMONZ

>> continued from pg 35

the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the lunar year, at Arafat, the most blessed day of the year. There were countless Muslims present with the Prophet during his last pilgrimage when he delivered his last Sermon. The Final Sermon: After praising, and thanking God, the Prophet, may God send His praises upon him said: “O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore, listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today. “O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that He will indeed

obamacare III

>> continued from pg 11

CONTINUED | 37 reckon your deeds. God has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. God has Judged that there shall be no interest, and that all the interest due to Abbas ibn Abd’al Muttalib shall henceforth be waived... “Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things. “O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under a trust from God and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.

worship God, perform your five daily prayers, fast during the month of Ramadan, and offer Zakat. Perform Hajj if you have the means. “All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a nonArab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; white has no superiority over black, nor does a black have any superiority over white; [none have superiority over another] except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves. “Remember, one day you will appear before God and answer for your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

“O People, listen to me in earnest,

“O People, no prophet or apostle will come after me, and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O people, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the Quran and my example, the Sunnah,

of employees in the commercial market,” says Joseph Monday, a spokesman for the insurance company, Cigna, to the New York Times.

FAITH Social Services in Herndon is training an employee with a Virginia based navigator to assist community member enroll and for advocacy.

Masjid Muhammad in DC held an informational session for its congregants, as many of the worshippers are uninsured and want to learn how to register.

Others around the area are preparing as well. With buses provided by the Montgomery County Muslim Foundation, the MCC Senior Program took seniors to White Oak Recreation Center this week to learn about the changes affecting seniors due to the new healthcare law.

ployer Health Care Tax Credit. The Muslim Community Prepares for ACA Dr. Sufia Syed is a doctor at Dar us Salaam Medical Clinic (DUS) in Greenbelt, Maryland. The clinic has been preparing for a year for the changes in the healthcare law. The clinic sees many uninsured patients, and she is concerned how the clinic will handle the influx of new patients when the insurance kicks in, in January, when the clinic is already packed. “More people with coverage is great, but finding specialists that handle Medicaid and state insurance is difficult.” She is right in her concerns. “The networks will be narrower than the networks typically offered to large groups

Muslim Community Center’s Health Clinic in Silver Spring, MD has been preparing, too. According to the director, Dr. Azad Ejaz, the clinic is changing its infrastructure to accept insurances in addition to Medicaid, and is applying for Medicare. They will hold a community health fair on October 13, 2013 where a county employee and navigators will be available to assist with information and registration. “Most people were not able to log in to the application process online, that is why we are hosting the fair,” said Azad.

Community clinics such as DUS, safety-net clinics like MCC and federally run community health centers will play a major role in the success of the ACA. A majority of the patients at the safety-net clinics — which serve mostly low-income individuals and families — will be automatically absorbed in the law’s expansion of Medicaid, the nation’s public health insurance plan. At this time Virginia has decided not to expand Medicaid.

and if you follow these you will never go astray. “All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and it may be that the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O God, that I have conveyed your message to your people.” Thus the beloved Prophet completed his Final Sermon, and upon it, near the summit of Arafat, the revelation came down: “…This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My Grace upon you, and have chosen Islam for you as your religion…” (Quran 5:3) Even today the Last Sermon of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alyhi wa sallam) is passed to every Muslim in every corner of the word through all possible means of communication. Muslims are reminded about it in mosques and in lectures. Indeed the meanings found in this sermon are indeed astounding, touching upon some of the most important rights God has over humanity, and humanity has over each other. Though the Prophet’s soul has left this world, his words are still living in our hearts.

There are some broader concerns about the Affordable HealthCare Act. “Where will the money come from to pay for this?” wonders Dr. Imran Chowdhry of Howard County. Dr. Saleem Farooqui, a specialist based near Ellicott City, MD has questions about a continuing shortage of doctors, both primary care and specialists. “The training required is longer (more fellowships after residencies). Medicare reimbursements to physicians continue to decline, medical school debt is increasing, malpractice is on the rise, and primary care physicians closing up shops because they can't meet overhead expenses.” In the coming months the potency of these concerns will be tested as the nation watches Maryland, a leader in the healthcare reform game, very closely.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

38 | CONTINUED

Our Founding Fathers included Islam Thomas Jefferson didn't just own a Quran -- he engaged with Islam and fought to ensure the rights of Muslims BY DENISE SPELLBERG Excerpted from the new book "Thomas Jefferson's Qur'an" [He] sais “neither Pagan nor Mahamedan [Muslim] nor Jew ought to be excluded from the civil rights of the Commonwealth because of his religion.”  — Thomas Jefferson, quoting John Locke, 1776  At a time when most Americans were uninformed, misinformed, or simply afraid of Islam, Thomas Jefferson imagined Muslims as future citizens of his new nation. His engagement with the faith began with the purchase of a Qur’an eleven years before he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson’s Qur’an survives still in the Library of Congress, serving as a symbol of his and early America’s complex relationship with Islam and its adherents. That relationship remains of signal importance to this day. That he owned a Qur’an reveals Jefferson’s interest in the Islamic religion, but it does not explain his support for the rights of Muslims. Jefferson first read about Muslim “civil rights” in the work of one of his intellectual heroes: the seventeenth-century English philosopher John Locke. Locke had advocated the toleration of Muslims—and Jews—following in the footsteps of a few others in Europe who had considered the matter for more than a century before him. Jefferson’s ideas about Muslim rights must be understood within this older context, a complex set of transatlantic ideas that would continue to evolve most markedly from the sixteenth through the nineteenth centuries. Amid the interdenominational Christian violence in Europe, some Christians, beginning in the sixteenth century, chose Muslims as the test case for the demarcation of the theoretical boundaries of their toleration for all believers. Because of these European precedents, Muslims also became a part of American debates about religion and the limits of citizenship. As they set about creating a new government in the United States, the American Founders, Protestants all, frequently referred to the adherents of Islam as they contemplated the proper scope of religious freedom and individual rights among the nation’s present and potential inhabitants. The founding generation debated whether the United States should be exclusively Protestant or a religiously plural polity. And if the latter, whether political equality—the full rights of citizenship, including access to the highest office—should extend to non-Protestants. The mention, then, of Muslims as potential citizens of the United States forced the Protestant majority to imagine the parameters of their new society be-

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yond toleration. It obliged them to interrogate the nature of religious freedom: the issue of a “religious test” in the Constitution, like the ones that would exist at the state level into the nineteenth century; the question of “an establishment of religion,” potentially of Protestant Christianity; and the meaning and extent of a separation of religion from government. Resistance to the idea of Muslim citizenship was predictable in the eighteenth century. Americans had inherited from Europe almost a millennium of negative distortions of the faith’s theological and political character. Given the dominance and popularity of these

Thomas Jefferson and a handful of others adopted and then moved beyond European ideas about the toleration of Muslims. It should be said at the outset that these exceptional men were not motivated by any inherent appreciation for Islam as a religion. Muslims, for most American Protestants, remained beyond the outer limit of those possessing acceptable beliefs, but they nevertheless became emblems of two competing conceptions of the nation’s identity: one essentially preserving the Protestant status quo, and the other fully realizing the pluralism implied in the Revolutionary rhetoric of inalienable and universal rights. Thus while some fought to exclude a group

in America, though small, were quite real, namely Jews and Catholics. Although it was Muslims who embodied the ideal of inclusion, Jews and Catholics were often linked to them in early American debates, as Jefferson and others fought for the rights of all nonProtestants. In 1783, the year of the nation’s official independence from Great Britain, George Washington wrote to recent Irish Catholic immigrants in New York City. The American Catholic minority of roughly twenty-five thousand then had few legal protections in any state and, because of their faith, no right to hold political office in New York. Washington insisted that “the bosom of America” was “open to receive . . . the oppressed and the persecuted of all Nations and Religions; whom we shall welcome to a participation of all our rights and privileges.” He would also write similar missives to Jewish communities, whose total population numbered only about two thousand at this time. One year later, in 1784, Washington theoretically enfolded Muslims into his private world at Mount Vernon. In a letter to a friend seeking a carpenter and bricklayer to help at his Virginia home, he explained that the workers’ beliefs—or lack thereof—mattered not at all: “If they are good workmen, they may be of Asia, Africa, or Europe. They may be Mahometans [Muslims], Jews or Christian of an[y] Sect, or they may be Atheists.” Clearly, Muslims were part of Washington’s understanding of religious pluralism—at least in theory. But he would not have actually expected any Muslim applicants.

This book provides a new history of the founding era, one that explains how and why Thomas Jefferson and a handful of others adopted and then moved beyond European ideas about the toleration of Muslims. anti-Islamic representations, it was startling that a few notable Americans not only refused to exclude Muslims, but even imagined a day when they would be citizens of the United States, with full and equal rights. This surprising, uniquely American egalitarian defense of Muslim rights was the logical extension of European precedents already mentioned. Still, on both sides of the Atlantic, such ideas were marginal at best. How, then, did the idea of the Muslim as a citizen with rights survive despite powerful opposition from the outset? And what is the fate of that ideal in the twenty-first century? This book provides a new history of the founding era, one that explains how and why

whose inclusion they feared would ultimately portend the undoing of the nation’s Protestant character, a pivotal minority, also Protestant, perceiving the ultimate benefit and justice of a religiously plural America, set about defending the rights of future Muslim citizens. They did so, however, not for the sake of actual Muslims, because none were known at the time to live in America. Instead, Jefferson and others defended Muslim rights for the sake of “imagined Muslims,” the promotion of whose theoretical citizenship would prove the true universality of American rights. Indeed, this defense of imagined Muslims would also create political room to consider the rights of other despised minorities whose numbers

Although we have since learned that there were in fact Muslims resident in eighteenthcentury America, this book demonstrates that the Founders and their generational peers never knew it. Thus their Muslim constituency remained an imagined, future one. But the fact that both Washington and Jefferson attached to it such symbolic significance is not accidental. Both men were heir to the same pair of opposing European traditions. The first, which predominated, depicted Islam as the antithesis of the “true faith” of Protestant Christianity, as well as the source of tyrannical governments abroad. To tolerate Muslims—to accept them as part of a majority Protestant Christian society—was to welcome people who professed a faith most eighteenth-century Europeans and Americans believed false, foreign, and threatening. Catholics would be similarly characterized in American Protestant founding discourse. In-

>> See JEFFERSON Pg 41

- November October 11th & OBITS EVENTS 7th 2013

Request For Dua’s

{ To Allah We B e l o n g , an d t o Hi m is Ou r R e tu r n } “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)” 09-12-2013 It is with great sadness and heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Br. Sammy ElFayoumy, the brother of Samir ElFayoumy and Sana Hasabala. We ask Allah (SWT) to shower him with His mercy, compassion and forgiveness, and to grant him the highest ranks in paradise, and give his family support and patience during these difficult times. (Source: Dar Al Taqwa) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

09-13-2013 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Brother Hussain Naeem. May Allah (SWT) grant him Jannatul Firdaus and may HE grant his family ease. The Janazah Salat for Brother Hussain was onSeptember 13, 2013 in Lanham, Maryland. (Source: PGMA)

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Upcoming Events In Your Area Fall Eid Festival Saturday, October 12 2013, 12:00pm - 6:00pm Please join us for Fall Eid Festival organized by MAV Youth group. Event Activities Include: Moon bounce, water balloons, henna, Edge Party Trailer, Pony Rides for kids & more. Welcoming vendors of Islamic clothing, jewelry, henna, Islamic books, CDs, and food vendors. Location: Dar Alnoor Islamic Community Center, Manassas, VA Contact: For more information, contact Sr. Ruksana at 703-730-0719 or Email: ruksana.ameen38@gmail.com

Domestic Violence Event at ISF Saturday, October 19 2013, 6:45pm - 9:00pm Love like the Prophet: Ending Domestic Violence in our Community. Featuring: Dr Zainab Alwani, Howard U School of Divinity; Salma Abudigeiri, Peaceful Families Project; Aisha Rahman, Esq KARAMAH; Najwa Awad, Amanah Family Counseling. Starts after Maghrib Salaat. Location: Islamic Society of Frederick (ISF), 1250 Key Parkway, Frederick, MD 21702 Contact: For more information, please visit www.karamah.org

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09-18-2013 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Br. Khalid Bokhari, brother-in-law of Br. Zafar Naqvi. We ask Allah (SWT) to shower him with His mercy, compassion and forgiveness, grant him the highest ranks in paradise and give his family support and patience during this difficult time. The Salat ul Janaza was on September 18, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Source: ISB) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

09-17-2013 There was a Janazah for Br. Mohammed Motier Rahman on September 17, 2013 in Manassas, Virginia. May Allah (SWT) grant him Jannah, accept him in His Mercy & Love and grant Sabr to his family and friends. (Source: Dar Alnoor)

First Annual Meeting of Muslim Businesses in Construction Industry Saturday, October 26 2013, 8:00am - 4:00pm You are cordially invited to attend the First Annual Meeting of Muslim Businesses in the Construction Industry for firms located in DC/MD/VA/DE/PA/NJ. Hosted by Banneker Ventures, Sabree Inc. and HEP Construction. Meeting is open to General Contractors, Sub-Contractors (all construction related trades), A/E firms, CPA firms. Join us as we work collectively to spend more than $30M with each other in the next year and more moving forward, InshaAllah. Registration fee of $100 required for each participant. RSVP required by 3:00 ET on October 21, 2013 to thayward@bannekerventures.com Location: Montgomery County Executive Office Building, 101 Monroe Street, Rockville, MD 20850 Contact: For more information, contact Omar Karim at 301-523-1810 or okarim@bannekerventures.com

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09-20-2013 The Board of Directors, Imam, Executive Director and the staff of Dar Al-Hijrah and the Muslim community in Northern Virginia extend its deepest condolences to brother Osama Elbaba, his brother has passed away. May Allah grant him with Jannah, and give his family patience. (Source: Dar Al Hijrah) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

09-23-2013 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sr. Rahat Jabeen Khan, sister of Br. Amjad Khan. We ask Allah (SWT) to shower her with His mercy, compassion and forgiveness, grant her the highest ranks in paradise and give her family support and patience during this difficult time. The Salat ul Janaza was on September 23, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Source: ISB)

Youth Against Hunger Program Sunday, October 27 2013, 3:00pm - 5:00pm Please join us for our monthly Youth Against Hunger program and celebrate Montgomery County’s 27th Annual Community Service Day. Let’s roll up our sleeves and work to help our neighbors in need and enhance our community. The October Youth Against Hunger program brings diverse communities together to make 700 sandwiches and cut 100 lbs. of vegetables for the local homeless and to raise awareness on the importance of helping the needy. Location: ICC, 19650 Club House Road, Suite 205, Montgomery Village, MD 20886 Contact: To RSVP, contact Samia Haque at (240) 396-535 or samia@theicc.net

Race 2 College Sunday, November 03 2013

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09-30-2013 It is with great sadness and heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Mohammad Abu Khadeer, the grandfather of Sr. Manal Halabah (wife of Br. Mohammad Aljawadi). We ask Allah (SWT) to shower him with His mercy, compassion and forgiveness, and to grant him the highest ranks in paradise, and give his family support and patience during these difficult times. (Source: Dar Al Taqwa)

Run or Walk to raise Scholarship funds for College Students. All donations tax deductible. Contact: Register online: www.race2college.org

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Young Muslims presents: Qiraat Competition. Also featuring: Bazaar, Food, Adult programs, and much much more. Registration: $20. Ages: 6 to 21 (prizes for all ages). Vendor spots are limited, contact 609-575-7474. Register at www.hhrd.org. Also, for more information, email: qiraatcompetiton@gmail.com Location: Hammarskjold Middle School, 200 Rues Ln, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Contact: Saqib Attique 609-575-7474, Sarah Elbery 973-704-8070, Faisal Mansuri 732-600-1161

10-03-2013 Mrs. Talat Ahmed, wife of the late Zia R. Ahmed and mother of Atiq R. Ahmed and Laeeq Ahmed has passed away today. May Allah accept her good deeds, forgive her shortcomings and enter her into Jannat ul Firdaus, Aameen. Salaat ul Janazah was on October 4, 2013 in Gaithersburg, Maryland. (Source: ICM) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10-05-2013 It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Sister Bildey Omar. May Allah (SWT) grant her Jannatul Firdaus and may HE grant her family ease. The Janazah Salat for Sister Bildey Omar was on October 5, 2013 in Lanham, Maryland. (Source: PGMA)

Qiraat Competition Saturday, November 16 2013, 9:30am - 6:30pm

Al-Rahmah Night of Divine Inspiration Saturday, November 16 2013, 6:30pm - 9:30pm Join us on this special night filled with beautiful qur'an recitation and a benefit dinner for AlRahmah Qur'an Academy. Shaykh Ismet Akcin, Shaykh Abdelkarim Edgouch, Shaykh Yaseen Sheikh, Qari Muhammad Zahid, Qari Muhammad Abid, and Hafidh Hammad Hai. Tickets: $15, $35 Family Pass (Family of 5). Location: Islamic Society of Baltimore (ISB), 6631 Johnnycake Rd, Baltimore, MD 21244 Contact: www.alrahmahquranacademy.org

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MASJID LISTING

40 |

October 11th - November 7th 2013

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. --------------------------------------------------------------------------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 Islamic Academy: Galesbury Lane, Chantilly, VA 20151 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 ----------------------------------------------------------------

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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 ---------------------------------------------------------------WASHINGTON D.C. ---------------------------------------------------------------First Hijra Muslim Comm. Center: 4324 Georgia Ave, NW Washington, D.C. 20011 www.firsthijrah.org ---------------------------------------------------------------Ivy City Masjid: 2001 Galludet St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 Tel: 202-904-9668 E-mail: masjidivycity@yahoo.com ---------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Al-islam: 4603 Benning Rd., SE, Washington, D.C. 20019 E-mail: Imammusa@hotmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------Masjid Muhammad: 1519 4th St. NW, Washington D.C. 20001 Tel: 202-483-8832 | www. masjidmuhammad.com ---------------------------------------------------------------Muslim Society Of Washington, D.c. (MswDC): Howard Center, Room 805 (Above Hu Bookstore) Tel: 202-328-3236 ---------------------------------------------------------------The Islamic Center: 2551 Massachusetts Avenue

NW Washington D.C. 20008 Tel: 202-332-8343 www.theislamiccenter.com ---------------------------------------------------------------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 Address: 1928 Powers Lane Catonsville MD, 21228 Phone: 410 800 4880 Email: info@masjidfatima.com Website: http://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 ---------------------------------------------------------------Medina Center: 11600 Falls Road, Potomac MD 20854 www.medinacenter.net E-mail: Admin@medinacenter.net ---------------------------------------------------------------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: (Jumuah Only) Jumuah: 12:50pm 3201 Randolph Rd, Wheaton, MD 20906 www.imaam.org Email: Fridayprayer@imaam.org ---------------------------------------------------------------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

October 11th - November 7th 2013

CONTINUED| 41 JEFFERSON

>> continued from pg 38 Editor-in-Chief: Minhaj Hasan Office Manager: Stephanie Benmoha Layout: Fadlullah Firman Staff Writers: Urooj Fatima Fatimah Waseem Hena Zuberi Sharia Advisors: Sheikh Salah as-Sawi Imam Safi Khan The Muslim Link (TML) is published every month on the first Friday of the Hijri month 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. 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 5967 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. All Rights Reserved 2013

deed, their faith, like Islam, would be deemed a source of tyranny and thus antithetical to American ideas of liberty. In order to counter such fears, Jefferson and other supporters of non-Protestant citizenship drew upon a second, less popular but crucial stream of European thought, one that posited the toleration of Muslims as well as Jews and Catholics. Those few Europeans, both Catholic and Protestant, who first espoused such ideas in the sixteenth century often died for them. In the seventeenth century, those who advocated universal religious toleration frequently suffered death or imprisonment, banishment or exile, the elites and common folk alike. The ranks of these so-called heretics in Europe included Catholic and Protestant peasants, Protestant scholars of religion and political theory, and fervid Protestant dissenters, such as the first English Baptists—but no people of political power or prominence. Despite not being organized, this minority consistently opposed their coreligionists by defending theoretical Muslims from persecution in Christian-majority states. As a member of the eighteenth-century Anglican establishment and a prominent political leader in Virginia, Jefferson represented a different sort of proponent for ideas that had long been the hallmark of dissident victims of persecution and exile. Because of his elite status, his own endorsement of Muslim citizenship demanded serious consideration in Virginia—and the new nation. Together with a handful of like-minded American Protestants, he advanced a new, previously unthinkable national blueprint. Thus did ideas long on the fringe of European thought flow into the mainstream of American political discourse at its inception. Not that these ideas found universal welcome. Even a man of Jefferson’s national reputation would be attacked by his political opponents for his insistence that the rights of all believers should be protected from government interference and persecution. But he drew support from a broad range of constituencies, including Anglicans (or Episcopalians), as well as dissenting Presbyterians and Baptists, who suffered persecution perpetrated by fellow Protestants. No denomination had a unanimously positive view of non-Protes-

tants as full American citizens, yet support for Muslim rights was expressed by some members of each. What the supporters of Muslim rights were proposing was extraordinary even at a purely theoretical level in the eighteenth century. American citizenship—which had embraced only free, white, male Protestants—was in effect to be abstracted from religion. Race and gender would continue as barriers, but not so faith. Legislation in Virginia would be just the beginning, the First Amendment far from the end of the story; in fact, Jefferson, Washington, and James Madison would work toward this ideal of separation throughout their entire political lives, ultimately leaving it to others to carry on and finish the job. This book documents, for the first time, how Jefferson and others, despite their negative, often incorrect understandings of Islam, pursued that ideal by advocating the rights of Muslims and all nonProtestants. Still, as a man of his time, Jefferson was not immune to negative feelings about Islam. He would even use some of the most popular anti-Islamic images inherited from Europe to drive his early political arguments about the separation of religion from government in Virginia. Yet ultimately Jefferson and others not as well known were still able to divorce the idea of Muslim citizenship from their dislike of Islam, as they forged an “imagined political community,” inclusive beyond all precedent. The clash between principle and prejudice that Jefferson himself overcame in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries remains a test for the nation in the twenty-first. Since the late nineteenth century, the United States has in fact become home to a diverse and dynamic American Muslim citizenry, but this population has never been fully welcomed. Whereas in Jefferson’s time organized prejudice against Muslims was exercised against an exclusively foreign and imaginary nonresident population, today political attacks target real, resident American Muslim citizens. Particularly in the wake of 9/11 and the so-called War on Terror, a public discourse of anti-Muslim bigotry has arisen to justify depriving American Muslim citizens of the full and equal exercise of their civil rights.

lim president was first discussed with vitriol during debates involving America’s Founders. Thomas Jefferson would be the first in the history of American politics to suffer the false charge of being a Muslim, an accusation considered the ultimate Protestant slur in the eighteenth century. That a presidential candidate in the twenty-first century should have been subject to much the same false attack, still presumed as politically damning to any real American Muslim candidate’s potential for elected office, demonstrates the importance of examining how the multiple images of Islam and Muslims first entered American consciousness and how the rights of Muslims first came to be accepted as national ideals. Ultimately, the status of Muslim citizenship in America today cannot be properly appreciated without establishing the historical context of its eighteenth-century origins. This book documents the counterassertion that Muslims, far from being definitively un-American, were deeply embedded in the concept of citizenship in the United States since the country’s inception, even if these inclusive ideas were not then accepted by the majority of Americans. While focusing on Jefferson’s views of Islam, Muslims, and the Islamic world, it also analyzes the perspectives of John Adams and James Madison. Nor is it limited to these key Founders. The cast of those who took part in the contest concerning the rights of Muslims, imagined and real, is not confined to famous political elites but includes Presbyterian and Baptist protestors against Virginia’s religious establishment; the Anglican lawyers James Iredell and Samuel Johnston in North Carolina, who argued for the rights of Muslims in their state’s constitutional ratifying convention; and John Leland, an evangelical Baptist preacher and ally of Jefferson and Madison in Virginia, who agitated in Connecticut and Massachusetts in support of Muslim equality, the Constitution, the First Amendment, and the end of established religion at the state level. Excerpted from “Thomas Jefferson’s Qur’an” by Denise A. Spellberg. Copyright © 2013 by Denise A. Spellberg. Excerpted by permission of Knopf, a division of Random House LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

For example, recent anti-Islamic slurs used to deny the legitimacy of a presidential candidacy contained eerie echoes of founding precedents. The legal possibility of a Mus-

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Halal Food

October 11th - November 7th 2013

HALAL MENUS

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 49

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

Order Online

(2) 8â&#x20AC;? Subs, 2 Fries or Chips & 2 Cans of Soda

$15.99 + Tax

CONVENIENT TO UMBC CAMPUS Last order taken 15 minutes before closing

Our menu includes appetizers, pizza, strombolis, subs, sandwiches, hot dogs, pasta, platters, wraps, salads, wings, and desserts. Come try our HALAL diner!

Special Discount for Catering Order

MINIMUM $11.00 ....

HALAL MENUS

October 11th - November 7th 2013

FRESH PIZZA DELIGHTS Hand tossed/thin crust. ultra thin crust available 12” only. choice of wheat or white Pers.8” Med. 12”

Cheese 6.24 10.24 1 Topping 6.74 11.24 2 Topping 7.24 12.24 Additional Toppings 50 99 SPECIALTY PIZZAS Pers.8” Med. 12”

Classic White Pizza 7.74 11.99

Lg. 14”

X-Lg. 16”

12.00 13.24 13.30 14.74 14.60 16.24 1.30

1.50

Lg. 14”

X-Lg. 16”

13.99

15.99

Monster 20”

14.99 16.99 18.99 1.99

Monster 20”

19.99

Olive oil, oregano, blend of provoone and american, mozzarella, cheese and garlic

Deluxe Classic White Pizza 8.24 12.49 14.49

16.49

22.99

14.49

16.49

20.49

14.49

16.49

20.49

18.99

22.99

Shrimp, Old Bay and extra cheese

Crab Pizza

Fresh Pizza Burger 100% beef

Falafel Wrap

fresh made burger, pizza sauce, pizza cheese

Lettuce, tomato and onions with choice of sweet, cucumber or Buffalo sauce

100% crabmeat, Old Bay and extra cheese

Meat Lover’s 9.24 14.99

16.99

Cheese Steak Wrap

Lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, onions and American cheese

Eggplant

Lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise

Hot Dog Wrap

With chili, cheese and onion

Fish Filet or Tilapia Wrap

Chicken fillet, pizza sauce, provolone cheese

Lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise

Chicken filet Eggplant Parmesan

Lettuce, tomatoes and mayonnaise

BLT Wrap

Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, ranch dressing

Meatball, pizza sauce, provolone cheese

Chicken Tikka Kabob Wrap

100% Real Turkey (Hot or cold) Ham & Cheese (Hot or cold) BBq Chicken Cheese Steak

Jumbo Shrimp Wrap

Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, ranch dressing Lettuce, tomatoes and mayonnaise

Crab Cake Wrap

Lettuce, tomato, onion, American cheese, bleu cheese and Buffalo sauce

Italian Steak 9.24 14.99

Chicken BLT Wrap

22.99

Steak, mushrooms, green peppers and onions

Greek Pizza 9.24 14.99

Lettuce, tomato, onion, American cheese and creamy Caesar dressing

Spicy Chicken Wrap

18.99

22.99

Grilled Chicken Wrap Lettuce, tomato, onions and American cheese

Shish Kabob Pizza 9.24 14.99

Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, mayonnaise and American cheese

16.99

18.99

Chicken Cheese Steak Wrap 22.99

chiken or beef, onions, green peppers

6.24

16.99

18.99

22.99

FRESH OVERSTUFFED SUBS & Available in white and whole wheat bread choice of free fixing: 8” 6.49 12” 10.49 20” 15.99 Philadelphia Steak Philadelphia Cheesesteak Italian Cheesesteak steak, mushrooms, green peppers, onions, pizza sauce, provolone cheese

Chicken Cheesesteak Italian Hot Cut Italian Cold Cut Fresh Hamburger 100% beef Fresh Cheeseburger 100% beef Pizza Sub Pizza Steak

Grilled Veggie Wrap

6.24 6.24 6.24

Mixed veggies with American cheese, mayonnaise and hot peppers

spicy chicken, green peppers and onions

Steak, Pizza sauce, pizza cheese

6.24

Smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, American cheese and mayonnaise

gyro meat (Chicken or beef), feta cheese, black olives, red onions, green peppers and exta cheese

Chicken Tikka Pizza 9.24 14.99

6.24

Lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, onions, hot peppers and American cheese

16.99

6.24 6.24 6.24 6.24

6.24 6.74 6.74

FRESH WRAPS $ Lettuce, tomatoes and mayonnaise. Fresh homemade crab cake Greek Wrap 6.24 Available in white and whole wheat flour Lettuce, tomato, feta cheese, green pepper, onions, Buffalo Chicken Wrap 6.24 Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap

18.99

6.24

Chicken or Beef Shish Kabob Wrap 6.24

Italian Meatball

Beef pepperoni, ground beef, sausage, Italian salami, beef bacon, turkey ham and double cheese

16.99

6.24

Chicken or beef, gyro sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil and vinegar

Chicken, BBQ Sauce

8.24 12.49

6.24

Gyro Wrap

Roast Beef (Hot or cold) Grilled Chicken Breast Fresh Chicken Salad Beef Gyro Sub Chicken Gyro Sub Fresh Seafood Salad Chicken of Beef Shish Kabob Chicken Tikka Kabob Chicken Parmesan

Eggplant, pizza sauce, pizza cheese

Everything on white pizza plus feta cheese and red onion

Shrimp Pizza 8.24 12.49

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Turkey Wrap

6.24

(Specify hot or cold) Lettuce, tomato, onion and ranch dressing

Tuna Wrap

All platters served with french fries or mashed potatoes. We use trans fat-free cooking oil

Chicken Nugget Platter (12) Hot Roast Beef with Gravy Hot Turkey with Gravy Popcorn Shrimp Clam Strips Tilapia Fish (2) Gyro Platter Beef or chicken with mini Greek salad

Jumbo Shrimp (7) Seafood Combo

1 Crab cake, 1 tilapia fish and 4 jumbo shrimp

Tandoori Chicken Platter

6.24

Chicken Shish Kabob, Beef Shish Kabob or Chicken Tikka Kabob Platter

Lettuce, toamtoes, onions and mayonnaise

Chicken Salad

FRESH PLATTERS

6.24

Lettuce, tomato, onion and mayonnaise

Seafood Salad Wrap

cucumber, banana pepper and black olives

6.24

Lettuce, tomatoes, onions and mayonnaise

8.49 8.49 8.49 8.49 8.49 9.24 9.24

11.24 11.24 8.99

Served with fresh bread and mini salad with choice of dressing

8.99

Served with fresh bread, mini salad and choice of dressing

BUFFALO OR BONELESS WINGS & Served with french fries and bleu cheese or ranch (Specify hot or cold} Ham, salami, provolone cheese, fire (very hot). Hot. Buffalo Atomic. lettuce, tomato, onion and mayonnaise Mild. BBQ Sauce. Honey BBQ, Honey Garlic, Ham & Cheese Wrap 6.24 Honey Mustard or Old Bay Style (Specify hot or cold) Lettuce, tomato, onion, American cheese and mayonnaise 5 Pieces 4.24 Roast Beef Wrap 6.24 10 Pieces 8.24 (Specify hot or cold) Lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise and onions 15 Pieces 11.24 Chili & Cheese Wrap 6.24 20 Pieces 14.24 Fresh in house made chili and American cheese 30 Pieces 18.24 Cheeseburger Wrap 6.24 Extra Blue Cheese, Extra Ranch or Celery .50 Italian Wrap

Lettuce, tomato, onions, mayonnaise and American cheese

6.24

(We used trans fat-free cooking oil)

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

HALAL MENUS

October 11th - November 7th 2013

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

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

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 53

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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October 11th - November 7th 2013

phikpousa@gmail.com

HALAL MENUS

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 55

www.misterkabob.com ....

56 | ADVERTISEMENT

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HALAL MENUS

October 11th - November 7th 2013

HALAL MENUS

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HALAL MENUS

October 11th - November 7th 2013

- November 7th 2013 October 11-thAdvertisements MP

HALAL MENUS

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 59

6901 Security Blvd Windsor Mill, MD 21244 SEOUL PLAZA (Second Floor)

Behind Mall Across from Grand Auto Body Shop

osplacemd@yahoo.com 410-597-9920 or 410-960-6951

11am to 10pm Daily

Signature DiSheS Beef Beef hunan Style Shredded Beef Schezuan Beef with Broccoli

$9.95 $9.95 $9.95

LamB Lamb hunan Style Shredded Lamb Schezuan style Lamb Curry

$9.95 $9.95 $9.95

ChiCken kung Pao Chicken Diced Chicken w/fresh hot Peppers Orange Chicken

$8.95 $9.95 $11.95

Vegetarian Sauteed Brococli in garlic Sauce Sauteed String Bean

$7.95 $7.95

PakiStani & inDian SPeCiaLtieS all Dishes listed below are served with your choice of one naan or roti Beef kabob (2) Chicken kabob (2) Chicken tikka (with bone) mutton karahi (1 lb. pre-cook weight) Beef haleem Beef nihari Chicken Steak (12 Pieces) Paye

$5.95 $5.95 $5.95 $10.95 $8.95 $8.95 $11.95 $9.99

DeSSertS Kulfi (one) Mango Kulfi (one)

$1.99 $1.99

YOu Can finD Our fuLL menu at

www.OSPLaCe.net ....

HALAL MENUS

60 | MP - Advertisements

October 11th - November 7th 2013

Call in Your Order (301) 278.7053 , (301) 278.7082

We Deliver

Hours of Operation Monday-Saturday 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday Closed Serving Breakfast 7:30am to 11:00am 58 Ritchie Rd. Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Café Buffalo Wings

Breakfast Delights

Café Subs

Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on croissant -Pancake Special -- Waffles with Bacon, Egg and Cheese -- Home Fried Potatoes -Grits -- Salmon Burger on croissant with egg and cheese

HALF 8” 7.50 & WHOLE 12” 9.99 $1.00 extra for fries

PIKE PIZZA CHEESE

Small 8 Slices

Medium 10 Slices

Large 12 Slices

5.99

7.99

9.99

11.99

13.99

15.99

18.99

Pizza Sauce, Italian Spices, Mozzarella Cheese

MEAT LOVERS

Ground beef, Peppers, Turkey Sausage, Turkey Ham, Turkey Bacon, Meatballs

X-Large 14 Slices

12.99

14.99

16.99

BBQ CHICKEN

12.99

14.99

16.99

WHITE PIZZA

7.99

9.99

11.99

Mushrooms, Red Pepper, Green Pepper, Olives, Tomatoes, Onions

Steak & Cheese

Fish Fillet

Chicken Steak

Veggie

Turkey Breast

Tuna Salad

Turkey Ham & Cheese

Curry Chicken Salad

Chicken Parmesan

Grilled Chicken Club

Hamburger

Turkey Club

Cheeseburger

Roast Beef

*Salmon Burger $6.50

*Veggie Burger $6.50

Choice of: Lettuce, Tomato, Onions, Pickles,

VEGGIE

Sweet Peppers, Provolone or American Cheese

Classic Deli $6.50

Combo $7.50

Curry Chicken Salad $6.50

Combo $7.50

Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Mozzarella, Provolone Cheese

Turkey Club

$6.50

Combo $7.50

PEPPERONI

12.99

14.99

16.99

Smoked Turkey

$6.50

Combo $7.50

NEW YORK STEAK

12.99

14.99

16.99

Grilled Chicken

$6.50

Combo $7.50

HAWAIIAN PIZZA

11.99

13.99

15.99

Grilled Chicken, BBQ Sauce, Red Onions, Turkey Bacon

Halal Beef Pepperoni, Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese

Philly Cheesesteak, Italian Spices, Red Peppers, Onions

Turkey Ham, Pineapple, Tomatoes, Mozzarella Cheese

Albacore Tuna

Pasta

Provolone Cheese, Pesto Mayonnaise, Pesto Mustard

Butter Croissant Wrap (Honey Wheat, Tomato Basil, or Spinach)

Salads Caesar Salad

$5.99

Lasagna with side salad

$7.95

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

$7.95

Spaghetti with meatballs and side salad

$7.95

Curry Chicken Salad

$7.95

Penne Portabella with side salad

$7.95

Tuna Salad

$7.95

Chicken Parmesan with Pasta

$9.95

Chef Salad

$7.95

Chicken Alfredo

$7.95

Garden Salad

$6.25

Pasta Salad

$3.75

Side Salad

$3.50

$1.00 extra for garlic bread.

5 Pieces (1 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$4.99

10 Pieces (2 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$8.99

15 Pieces (3 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$11.99

20 Pieces (4 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$15.50

30 Pieces (6 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$22.49

40 Pieces (8 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$27.99

50 Pieces (10 Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip)

$33.99

.35¢ for each additional dip

Whole Wings! 4 Wings

$5.99

8 Wings

$11.99

12 Wings

$15.99

20 Wings

$23.99

Fresh, Fried Whole

Chicken Tenders Served with Fries 4 Piece

8 Piece

11.49

(2 Blue Cheese or Honey Mustard)

20 Piece

19.99

(4 Blue Cheese or Honey Mustard)

Side Orders FRENCH FRIES

$1.79

SWEET POTATO FRIES

$2.49

ONION RINGS

$2.49

Rice

$2.50

Mac & Cheese

$3.25

POTATO CHIPS

$.59¢

DESSERTS

Exclusively From Sweet Tooth Cakes and Pastries

Sweet Potato & Bean Pie Banana & Bread Pudding Yellow Cake w/ Chocolate Buttercream Pineapple Coconut Cake, Strawberry Shortcake Carrot Cake, Triple Chocolate Lemon Cake w/ Lemon Filling, Lemon Buttercream And ….. Much, Much, More

Lettuce, Tomato, Green Peppers, Red Onions, Cucumbers

....

6.49

(1 Blue Cheese or Honey Mustard)

Chicken Wings!

Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles, Onions, Turkey Bacon,

Signature Breads

EXTRA TOPPINGS: Sm. .75 Med. 1.50 Lg. 2.00 X-Lg. 2.25 Pepperoni, Grilled Chicken, Italian Salami, Ground Beef, Mushroom, Feta Cheese, Jalapeno, Anchovies, Onions, Sausage, Hot Peppers, Green Peppers, Turkey Bacon, Pineapple, Garlic Spinach, Banana Peppers, Fresh Tomatoes, Turkey Ham, Black Olives, Extra Cheese

Fax Your Order (301) 808.7738

Thank you for choosing Sweet Tooth Cakes and Pastries New Cafe. 301-278-7053

October 11th - November 7th 2013

HALAL MENUS

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 61

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HALAL MENUS

October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 63

Teppanyaki Grill & Sea Food Buffet

Zabiha Halal Buffet Over 100 items at

6901 Security Blvd, Windsor Mill, MD 21244 -- At Security Square Mall across from the AMC theater. 410-265-1088

Open 7 days 11AM to 10PM Coupons $10 off with purchase $90 , exp October 31, 2013 Coupons $5 off with purchase $45 , exp october 31, 2013 Coupons cannot be combined with any other offer.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 65

Now Available At These Fine Stores Columbia Halal meat 6520 Old Waterloo Rd #J, Elkridge MD 21075

a - one GroCery & Halal meat 2919 Arlington Dr, Alexandria VA 22306

international Halal market 2100 12th St, Lynchburg VA24501

al - makkaH Halal meat 1724 Woodlawn Dr, Baltimore MD 21207

aditi sPiCe dePot 409 Maple Ave E, Vienna VA 22180

sHri krisHna GroCery 7033 Brookefield Plaza, Springfield VA 22150

Punjab GroCeries & Halal meat 345 East 33rd St, Baltimore MD 21218

aFGHan mini market 6566 Backlick Rd, Springfield VA 22150

taj Halal GroCery 8715 West Broad St, Suite B, Richmond VA 23294

indus Foods 15513 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring MD 20905

asia Halal Food & GroCery 5143 Lee Highway, Arlington VA 22207

aditi sPiCes Vienna VA 703 938 3400 Herndon VA 703 434 1100

sanGam sPiCe 13822 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring MD 20904

best desi bazaar 14455 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge VA 22191

bombay sPiCes Centerville VA 703 803 8445

FrederiCk bazaar 54 N Waverly Dr, Frederick MD 21702

asian bazaar 7864 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria VA 22306

ansaF Global Halal Mannassas VA 703 361 6500

dana bazaar 128-29 Wisteia Dr, Germantown MD 20874

delHi bazaar 295 South Van Dorn, Alexandria VA 22046

indian bazaar 383 Muddy Branch Rd, Gaithesburg MD

GinGer & sPiCe market 6548A Little River Turnpike, Alexandria VA 22312

Fair PriCe Alexandria VA 703 751 0786 Herndon VA 703 435 2223 Woodbridge VA 703 680 1170

indus Foods 765 Rockville Pike, Rockville MD 20852

indian sPiCes GroCery 1067 B West Broad St, Falls Church VA 22046

bismillaH Halal meat 1401 University Blvd, Langley Park MD 20783

indo - Pak GroCery stores 8121 West Broad St, Richmond VA23294

lotte Plaza Chantilly VA, Ashburn VA & Catonsville MD Global Foods Ashburn VA, Mannassas Va & Woodbridge VA india bazaar Sterling VA 703 444 8851 Gaithersburg MD 301 963 7070

Germantown MD 301 515 5113 HalalCo Falls Church VA 703 532 3202 krisHna GroCery Springfield VA 703 569 6777 suPer Halal meat Springfield VA 703 866 2024 dana bazaar Germantown MD 301 916 8086 madina Halal meat Gaithersburg MD 301 977 5700 Patel brotHers Baltimore MD 410 719 2822 indus Foods Silver Spring MD 301 989 9448 Rockville MD 301 279 2121 Laurel MD 240 280 2340 Punjab GroCery Baltimore MD 410 662 7844 al madina Baltimore VA 410 265 8300 danisH Foods Catonsville MD 410 298 0960 GanesH GroCery Catonsville MD 410 206 2525 Food CravinGs Columbia MD 410 997 2121

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66 | MP - Advertisements

October 11th - November 7th 2013

Established 1985

www.pizzabolis.com

For employment and franchising opportunities, please contact us at 1-800-234-BOLI

About Pizza Boli's Over 65 stores in Maryland, D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania Franchising opportunities available Low cost to open and operate business Option to use non-pork products

More variety than any other major pizza chain Distinct brand identity Positioned for continued growth

Prosperity Systems, Inc. 3 Greenwood Place, Suite 208 Pikesville, MD 21208 ....

Please contact: Syed Iqbal (Ike) Office: 443-544-1500 Cell: 410-978-0123 email: info@pizzabolis.com

October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 67

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

ROCKVILLE GOURMET HALAL MEAT Accepting Orders for Iduladha 1331-C Rockville Pike, Rockville MD 20852

Tel 301-424-4444

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020 or Email us at

office@muslimlinkpaper.com

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 69

CHOOSING A LAWYER IS A BIG DECISION : Attorney Ismail Laher A t t o r n e y s

C o u n s e l o r s

a t

L a w, P L L C

Our Lawyers Defend Doctors Nationwide We assist and Defend Health Care Providers with issues regarding: ZPICS, RACS, Stark, Compliance, MACS, OSHA & MEDICARE Audits, HHS, HIPPA, ERP’s, Mergers, Buyouts and more. Please Call For Free Case Analysis.

Our Lawyers Handle Serious Cases

Litigation, Contracts, Arbitrations; Mediations; Disputes; Compliance; Audits, Investigations; Case Assessments, Negotiations, Agreements and more.

We Practice In Many Areas

We file cases on a contingent fee basis. We conduct Initial Reviews of Major Accident, Serious Injuries, Religious & Workplace Discrimination and Criminal cases. We counsel on Immigration Court & Visa Issues, Fraud against Taxpayer Cases, Child Custody & Divorce cases; Corporate & Business Transactional matters; Health Care Law issues; Regulatory Agency Compliance Audits; Real Estate & Mortgage Issues. We provide Independent Counsel Reviews, General Counsel Services and more.

Washington, DC Attorney

Ismail Laher • 202.596.7863 O: 202.298.8750 Ext. 163

Mr. Laher is with Liles Parker, PLLC. He is a Harvard and Georgetown University graduate and a former Jones Day lawyer. Mr. Laher has handled many cases over the years and always acts in their best interests. He always does what is best for his clients. Mr. Laher will help you or try to find you an attorney who can. Please visit www.Laher.com for our office locations, articles, emails, free newsletter signups and more.

WE OFFER COST EFFECTIVE, AGGRESSIVE & QUALITY REPRESENTATION www.LilesParker.com “Your Success is Our Success!” (Offices in DC, TX & LA)

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020 or Email us at

office@muslimlinkpaper.com

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

ADVERTISEMENT | 71

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

Attorney Sarah Malik Family Law Litigation, Mediation and Appeals Maryland and Washington, DC

phone: 301-775-0360 | email: sarah@MalikLawLLC.com website: www.MalikLawLLC.com

Malik Law LLC

WE WONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T PLAY GAMES WITH YOUR RIGHTS. In these uncertain times you need aggressive representation to protect your interests. At Kemet & Hunt, we will move quickly to provide legal service with experience, compassion and commitment. When you need a firm with success and expertise in a variety of areas, choose Kemet & Hunt. Family

Personal Injury

Civil Litigation

Bankruptcy

Criminal

Estates & Trusts

Business Law

Real Estate

Address: 4920 Niagara Rd, Ste 206, College Park, MD 20740

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Call today for a free consultation Phone Number: 301-982-0888

October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 73

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

Aqiqahs, Eid, Or Any Occasion !

GRASS FED, NO HORMONES OR ANTIBIOTICS

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WAGON WHEEL RANCH, 661 WEST WATERSVILLE ROAD, MOUNT AIRY, MARYLAND 21771 BRIAN 443 271-6850 PANCHO 443 257-5098

October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 77

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

EID LAMB & GOAT STILL AVAILABLE! Let us help make your celebration of Eid al-Adha as easy , efficient , and unforgettable as possible ! Westminster Livestock Auction And M&G Processors have come together to help you with your Eid Al-Adha sacrifice needs. Please give us a call ASAP and let us know how many head of lamb or goat you will need . No order to small or large .

Westminster Livestock Auction 1117 Old New Windsor Pike Westminster MD 21158 Earl (443)506-5243 Victoria (443)277-7952 Office (410)848-9820 Fax (410)848-2550 E-Mailâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; neverdunfarm@msn.com ....

M&G Processors 2020 Sykesville Road Westminster MD 21157

October 11th - November 7th 2013

ADVERTISEMENT | 79

Your Child Deserves the Best Medical Care

NEW PEDIATRIC OFFICE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Same Day Appointments

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

PHD Salon Barber Shop Specializing in Natural Hair Care Braids, Twists, Locs, Press & Curl, Shampoo & Conditioner, Corn Rows, Weaves, Set-Roller Wrap, and much more... For Sisters: Private Area on 2nd Floor Available by Appt. Only Call Sylist Cealia at 240.501.3985

For Men and Boys 1st Floor Level Walk Ins Welcome Phone # 301.604.6980

216 Main Street (Off Route-1) , Laurel, MD 20707

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020 or Email us at

office@muslimlinkpaper.com

Dynamic Family Dentistry 159 Hillwood Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046

Creating Beautiful Smiles with State of the Art Dental Care

Farida Khattak, d.d.s SPECIALIZING IN: • General Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Endodontics • Orthodontics • Cosmetic Dentistry CONTACT US: Tel: 703 531 0010 Fax: 703 531 1330 www.dynamicfamilydentistry.com Dynamicdental1@hotmail.com Info@dynamicfamilydentistry.com ....

October 11th - November 7th 2013

MP - ADVERTISEMENT | 81

LAW OFFICE Waseem Shah & Associates We Provide Quality Aﬀordable Legal Help Licensed in Washington DC*

Practice Areas We speak: Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, Arabic, and Spanish

Immigration/Asylum Waivers/Removal Proceedings Immigration Appeals *Domestic Relations *Criminal Defense

Call Us Today for a FREE Initial Consultation

*Landlord Tenant Disputes Civil Litigation

Oﬃce: 240-246-0786 Fax: 240-246-0787 Direct: 703-824-8607 email: waseem.dcattorneys@gmail.com

��

Address: 931-C Russell Avenue Suite 2 Gaithersburg, MD 20879

Waseem A. Shah Attorney At Law

��

�� DC Area ��Suburban �� in ��Realtor Your Trusted �� ®

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call 301-982-1020 or Email us at

��

Serving since 1989 ( licensed in MD, DC, VA ) � ��

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Muslim Ali, M.S, GRI, SFR, e-Pro �� ® ��

Associate Broker® | Foreclosed Property Specialist

Fairfax Realty, Inc.

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Fax: (301) 439-8050

�� For fast Contact: (301) 503-0403, Muslimali@MRIS.com �!��"!�#$�%! & ��'(�"!�#$�%! &)�� **Your�� best compliments to me is your referral to your friends and relatives ** �� !"#$�%"!�"&"!��

office@muslimlinkpaper.com

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DUS FAMILY MEDICAL PRACTICE

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WELCOMES ITS NEWEST PHYSICIAN DR. FARIHA KAMRAN, MD Board Certified Pediatrician and Pediatric Endocrinologist Accepting new patient consultation on childhood obesity, juvenile diabetes, annual physicals, vaccinations, growth problems, thyroid and bone disorders

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

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10442 BALTIMORE AVE. BELTSVILLE, MD-20705 TEL: 301-931-RANA (7262)

ARUMI TAG AND TITLE INC. 6, N 2ND STREET, LAUREL, MD-20707, TEL: 301-725-4343

SERVICES INC.

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

Arabesque

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October 11th - November 7th 2013

Classifieds | 87

Place a personal classified ad. Call us at 301-982-1020. Office@muslimlinkpaper.com We invite you to place a 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 3 issues 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, 5301 Edgewood Rd, College Park MD 20740.

Employment MEDICAL OFFICE RECEPTIONIST NEAR ISB

A newly open Medical Office located near ISB in Windsor Mill MD is in need of an entry-level position for Medical Office Receptionist. Fresh graduates will also be considered. Computer literacy and speaking/understanding Urdu and English language needed for this job. Please apply at: doctorneo@hotmail.com, Tel: 443 880 8589 -------------------------------------------------SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

CAIR, Council on American-Islamic Relations seeks an experienced, fulltime accountant at its Washington, D.C., headquarters reporting to the national executive director. This senior accountant is responsible for applying accounting principles and procedures to analyze financial information, preparing accurate and timely financial reports and statements, ensuring appropriate accounting control procedures, and supervising junior accounting staff. Accounting degree or equivalent; knowledge of accepted accounting practices and principles; knowledge of auditing practices and principles; knowledge of applicable laws, codes and regulations; a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the management of financial systems and budgets, financial reporting, financial data analysis, auditing, taxation and providing financial advice. CPA certification preferred but not required. CAIR offers very competitive compensation and benefits package. For a more detailed job description visit our website at www.cair.com. Please email a resume, cover letter and salary requirements to labusway@cair.com. -------------------------------------------------LEGAL COUNCIL

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) seeks an experienced attorney at CAIR’s Washington, D.C. headquarters. The attorney will serve as a member of CAIR’s upper management, counsel to CAIR-related business entities and the supervisor of CAIR’s civil rights legal team. The candidate must be licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia or be eligible to waive in. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of in-house counsel experience, providing

corporate and compliance advice to a non-profit organization or business, and overseeing full-time staff. CAIR prefers attorneys with experience working on issues that affect the American Muslim community, such as national security and discrimination. CAIR offers very competitive compensation and benefits package. For a more detailed job description visit our website at www.cair. com. Please email a resume, cover letter, writing sample, three references, and salary requirements to labusway@cair. com. -------------------------------------------------OPENING FOR OFFICE MANAGER

Open position for full time Office Manager for local Real Estate Development/ Investment Company in Greenbelt, MD. Must have excellent communication and organizational skills, and be proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word and Excel. Salary based on experience/capabilities, starting at $11-$15/Hr. Email resumes to cmclp@ mail.com

For Sale CONVENIENT STORE FOR SALE

Full service Convenient store with Carryout in highly populated area at a busy intersection. Front private parking in Baltimore City, Maryland. Ask for Al 443-739-5285. -------------------------------------------------CONDO FOR SALE

Less than 1 block from Wheaton Meto, 2 bedroom, 1 Full bath. Condo fee $200. $199,000. 301-922-1839, 301-537-9885.

Matrimonial SEARCHING FOR MY BETTER HALF

Sunni Muslim, 36, US citizen, Punjabi / Urdu speaking, divorced, 1 daughter, 23 months old not living with father, looking for religious, traditional, educated, professional girl. Contact: humkhiyalsaathi@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------SEEKING HUSBAND

She is a children's doctor, 29 years, very political, beautiful and nice. She`s born and graduated in USA. Originally from Egypt. She's looking for good Sunni Muslim husband same her born and

graduate from U.S.A due to the cultural similarities. Prefer Arabic doctor close to her age maximum 5 year difference. If interested, please call 410-282-4201 or email fatmakhalil12@yahoo.com.

Rental ROOM FOR RENT

Share rooms for rent at College Park (UMD), please email Br Roy roycaspari@ yahoo.com. -------------------------------------------------BASEMENT FOR RENT

2 bedroom, kitchen, full bathroom, dining space, separate land phone line, 7 to 10 minutes drive to Al-Huda School, Rent $950/month including utilities and internet. For more information, please call 301-318-2292 or 301-318-2306.

Services HOME SERVICES

Licensed contractor. Home improvement work, interior/exterior painting, drywall install/repair, brick/concrete repair. License # 30385946 Estimates done. Contact Br Allen Scott at 443-538-7643 (cell). -------------------------------------------------LOVING HOME CARE

Providing elder and child care you can trust and afford. Companionship, hygiene care, meal preparation, housekeeping, shopping, doctor appointments. Loving, dependable caregivers for Live-in, Full, Part time. Call: 301-490-1146 www. lovinghomecare.org. -------------------------------------------------CAREER CAREER

COUNSELING/RESUME SERVICES COUNSELING/RESUME SERVICES

Career Counseling Services offered Career Counseling Services offered by an experienced, well educated by an experienced, well educated professional with tons of Corporate and professional with tons of Corporate and U.S. Government Agency experience. U.S. Government Agency experience. Will coach and support you during all Will coach and support you during all phases of your job hunting campaign, phases of your job hunting campaign, including interviewing tips. Please including interviewing tips. Please review my website: http://ccvcs. review my website: http://ccvcs. whytheywonthireyou.com whytheywonthireyou.com -------------------------------------------------PERSONAL ASSISTANT CARE

Room available for an independent Personal Assistant Care for your loved one. In a Muslim home. laundry and meals 24/7

Contact, Ms. Rehman 240-416-8523. -------------------------------------------------FREE CLASSES AT MASJID UL SALAAM Sunday school class from 10:30 - 12:00 am. Arabic and Islamic studies for sisters taught by Sis. Touria , has BS Degree in Islamic Studie. 10:00-11:30 am. Islamic etiquette classes for new brothers inverted to Islam taught by Bro. Allen for more information contact Sis. Touria 410 4671259 or Br. Allen 443- 538- 7643. Classes held at Masjid Ul Salaam 300 South Howard Street Baltimore, Md --------------------------------------------------

ENERGY SAVING SAVING ENERGY

Would you you like like to to save save some Would some money money on on your Electric Electric and and Gas Gas bill? bill? II can your can help help you. you. It is is free. free. No No contract contract or or any It any signature signature required. Or if you like to earn required. Or if you like to earn additional additional income outside outside your your work work plus plus free income free Gas Gas and Electric energy, then please check and Electric energy, then please check out out my website: website: www.yousuf123.energy526. my www.yousuf123.energy526. com. For For more more information, information, please com. please email: email: yousuf01ali@gmail.com yousuf01ali@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------TUTOR AVAILABLE

Arabic, English, Math, Qur'an tutor available on weekdays and weekends. Reasonable rates. Please call Hanan Center at 240-646-4995. -------------------------------------------------GHADG FUNDRAISING

We want you to help fund one of our planned programs by allowing our organizational members and volunteers to provide a service for you. We will come to your location to wash your car. Car Wash choices: Wash exterior $10.00. Wash exterior and vacuum $15.00. Wash exterior, wax and vacuum $20.00. Wash, wax, vacuum, tires, floor mats, console $35.00. One program is adopt-a-lot in CHUM community (flower garden). Volunteer in school public /private during and or after school. Contact Brother Allen Scott 443 538 7643. --------------------------------------------------

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

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