by Safwan Halabi
Muslim youth in North America love to point out the day-in and day-out struggles they face. whether it is interaction with classmates at school or even with the local Islamic community, they are always faced with a multitude of trials and tribulations. However, there exists a much greater "pressure" on Muslim youth before they even have a chance to interact with their classmates or community's life at home.
A parent might sit back and ask, "Where is this discussion going? I provide my children with everything: a roof over their head, three square meals a day, the latest trends in clothing and shoes, a thorough Islamic education and a wonderful Islamic role model." I salute those parents and individuals in every Islamic community who do everything in their power to make sure that the next generation has a secure foothold in their Islamic education and identity. However, there seem to be a number of essential ingredients that are absent in many families and communities. these ingredients have the potential to make or break any family/community structure. Those ingredients are friendship and understanding.
How many Muslim youth in North America feel comfortable enough to reveal anything and everything to their respective parents and members of the Muslim community? It is all too often the case that the youth will hold in their deepest and darkest secrets in fear of being looked down upon or even black-listed by the Muslim community. It is no wonder then, that many youth turn to others like their classmates at school and people outside of that community for assistance and counseling. They feel comfortable discussing major issues in their life with complete strangers to avoid the often confusing and messy political cultural, and nationalistic issues they face within their own family and community.
Many parents across the nation have heeded the call of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), "Teach your children and teach them properly." (Ibn Majah) and "Order your children to abide by all the commands of Allah, and to avoid all the prohibitions, and by that you protect them from the Hellfire." (Ibn Juryar) However, we sometimes come to a point where teaching is the only thing that is done! In essence, we throw knowledge at the youth without taking the time to see if they have absorbed it in a proper manner.
One way to gauge how the youth handle their given knowledge is to interact with them as a friend or confidant. Let them ask their questions and discuss their concerns. be a good listener. Develop a solid rapport with them. All of these attributes are what make up a good friend. Why is it that parents often only play the role of provider and teacher? what it boils down to is reaching out and becoming a child's or youth's friend.
We must back up the youth's knowledge and support them on a daily basis. This can be done with the second ingredient, understanding. Many of the Muslim youth in this day and age feel that their parents and the community at large do not understand what they go though on a daily basis. Many youth spend six hours a day, five days a week at a public school; a place packed with social pressures, unwanted interactions, questionable food, and no Islamic role models to follow. I urge all of the truly concerned parents and community members to explore and experience a day in the life of a Muslim youth in North America. It is only through this means of understanding that we can make sure that Islam will flourish for generations to come on this continent and beyond.
It is very easy to sit back and complain, criticize, and whine about the current status of our Ummah at the present time. So, I would like to present a potential solution to the problem that may provide us with a glimmer of hope. A group of devoted brothers in Columbus are mulling over the idea of forming a "Boy's Club" to allow the male youths of our community to expend their energies for the will of Allah. There is even talk of forming an official Boy Scout troupe through the sponsorship of the Omar Mosque. This may sound like a wonderful endeavor" However, we need the help and support of every community member whether he or she has children or not.
There is nothing better than to be among one's own peers to face the struggles against the decaying society that youth face every day. the "Boy's Club" mission is to provide the Muslim community in Columbus with an Islamic choice when it comes to the activities and entertainment in which the youth enjoy participating (i.e. camping, sports, restaurants, etc.). Another goal is to provide the youth with the tools and the understanding of how to develop their Muslim identity. The areas of friendship and understanding will naturally be built into this type of organization "Inshallah (God willing). the list of benefits is infinite. If you are interested in supporting this idea either with suggestions, time, or money, please contact one of the following people: Safwan Halabi at .... Omar Qureshi at ....., Muhammad Abdulhaq at ..... we will call our initial organizational meeting by about June 15th, Inshallah.
Note: A Girl's Club has already been established for girls age ten and up. It meets at the Omar Mosque every other Sunday morning. for information please call Sr. Nowal Yakob at .....
Sunday, November 7, 2010
June 1996 Education Consultant
by Mohammed R. Shareef, M.D.
Since its inception in April, the School Task Force has been very busy working to make the full time school project a reality this coming September. with the success of the fundraising dinner, we are now in full gear to move forward with the nest steps. we are pleased to welcome an Educational Consultant, Br. Towfeak Hosein from Vancouver, British Columbia. Br. Towfeak is well known in the academia of Islamic Schools in North America and comes highly recommended by Br. Abdallah Idris Ali, President of ISNA. He has his B.Ed. and M.Ed. from the University of Toronto. He has more than 30 years teaching experience. He last held the position of principal at Morton Grove School (Chicago Area). He is well qualified and experienced having started several schools in the united States, such as Granada, Morton Grove, Richmond, etc. we are very fortunate to find him. Thanks be to Allah (SWT)
Br. Towfeak Hosein's responsibilities will be: 1) to work with the Task Force in establishing the school. 2) to assist us in establishing qualifications for staff to our school. 3) to set plans, procedures, and policies for the school. 4) to finalize both the Islamic and academic curricula. He will aid in many other ways as well, too numerous to mention, during his stay here. We encourage everybody to welcome him and give him a congenial atmosphere for his work.
So far, there are about 30 children who have been identified as potential pupils. more children are needed to start at full swing. There should not be any hesitation. We have received possession of the building and are preparing for phase 1 of the remodeling. We will be hiring highly qualified teachers and will be competing with other private schools in the vicinity.
Please start registering your children and encourage others to register theirs. Please also donate generously so that we can devote every second for the functioning of the school and not have to spend time in arranging for another fund raising dinner at this crucial juncture. Jazakum Allah Khair. May Allah bless you for your efforts. We need all kinds of support, such as financial, technical, donations of books, furniture, equipment, computers, fax machines, and other electronics, etc. People can also join in sponsorship of a child's tuition, so more of our children can participate. Still there is a lot of work that needs to be done. All work up to now has been accomplished by volunteers, and there is still need for much volunteer work. Please do not hesitate to contact the Task Force members at any time to offer your support.
Since its inception in April, the School Task Force has been very busy working to make the full time school project a reality this coming September. with the success of the fundraising dinner, we are now in full gear to move forward with the nest steps. we are pleased to welcome an Educational Consultant, Br. Towfeak Hosein from Vancouver, British Columbia. Br. Towfeak is well known in the academia of Islamic Schools in North America and comes highly recommended by Br. Abdallah Idris Ali, President of ISNA. He has his B.Ed. and M.Ed. from the University of Toronto. He has more than 30 years teaching experience. He last held the position of principal at Morton Grove School (Chicago Area). He is well qualified and experienced having started several schools in the united States, such as Granada, Morton Grove, Richmond, etc. we are very fortunate to find him. Thanks be to Allah (SWT)
Br. Towfeak Hosein's responsibilities will be: 1) to work with the Task Force in establishing the school. 2) to assist us in establishing qualifications for staff to our school. 3) to set plans, procedures, and policies for the school. 4) to finalize both the Islamic and academic curricula. He will aid in many other ways as well, too numerous to mention, during his stay here. We encourage everybody to welcome him and give him a congenial atmosphere for his work.
So far, there are about 30 children who have been identified as potential pupils. more children are needed to start at full swing. There should not be any hesitation. We have received possession of the building and are preparing for phase 1 of the remodeling. We will be hiring highly qualified teachers and will be competing with other private schools in the vicinity.
Please start registering your children and encourage others to register theirs. Please also donate generously so that we can devote every second for the functioning of the school and not have to spend time in arranging for another fund raising dinner at this crucial juncture. Jazakum Allah Khair. May Allah bless you for your efforts. We need all kinds of support, such as financial, technical, donations of books, furniture, equipment, computers, fax machines, and other electronics, etc. People can also join in sponsorship of a child's tuition, so more of our children can participate. Still there is a lot of work that needs to be done. All work up to now has been accomplished by volunteers, and there is still need for much volunteer work. Please do not hesitate to contact the Task Force members at any time to offer your support.
June 1996 Islamic Attire: A View of Elegance and Comfort
by Bonita McGee
On Saturday May 11, Muslim and non-Muslim women gathered together to experience an evening of elegance with the First Annual Islamic Attire Fashion Presentation. The purpose of the event was twofold, one, to share in our cultural uniqueness while emphasizing Islamic dress and two, as a fundraiser for the proposed Islamic School.
The program opened with the recitation and translation of the Holy Quran. While the mood was light and festive, as children and women presented a wide variety of outfits from multiple Islamic cultures, during the intermission there was a moment of serious reflection for our brothers and sisters who are being oppressed. A song of peace was played by a folk singer who was inspired after seeing the tragedies in Bosnia. The song was accompanied by a slide presentation. "It was very moving... I saw some sisters in tears." stated Zahira Kirby, one of the attendees. The grand finale for the program was a presentation of all the models in hijab and jilbaab. Many sisters commented on wanting to purchase a hijab or jilbaab after the presentation.
Vendors were available afterward in the lobby to give everyone an opportunity to buy some of the fashions shown. Food from each respective culture was sampled by everyone in attendance.
On Saturday May 11, Muslim and non-Muslim women gathered together to experience an evening of elegance with the First Annual Islamic Attire Fashion Presentation. The purpose of the event was twofold, one, to share in our cultural uniqueness while emphasizing Islamic dress and two, as a fundraiser for the proposed Islamic School.
The program opened with the recitation and translation of the Holy Quran. While the mood was light and festive, as children and women presented a wide variety of outfits from multiple Islamic cultures, during the intermission there was a moment of serious reflection for our brothers and sisters who are being oppressed. A song of peace was played by a folk singer who was inspired after seeing the tragedies in Bosnia. The song was accompanied by a slide presentation. "It was very moving... I saw some sisters in tears." stated Zahira Kirby, one of the attendees. The grand finale for the program was a presentation of all the models in hijab and jilbaab. Many sisters commented on wanting to purchase a hijab or jilbaab after the presentation.
Vendors were available afterward in the lobby to give everyone an opportunity to buy some of the fashions shown. Food from each respective culture was sampled by everyone in attendance.
June 1996 Election Frustration
IQRA! Critique of the First Years Experience of the ISGC Election Process
This year's ISGC election was characterized by Confusion and low turnout. In spite of the habitual pattern by which elections were held since 1984, it was as though this was the first year it has been done. Only one week before the membership drive was closed, an election committee was selected. Members of the committee who did not have any previous experience were unaware of many constitutional requirements that needed to be fulfilled. When the election committee searched for the previous election file that contained many valuable information on the procedures, they discovered it had disappeared! Confusion resulted from the sporadic distribution of nomination forms, especially on the sisters' side, additional forms for the computer center and lack of understanding of the nomination and membership constitutional requirements.
As a result, strange things happened, like extending the deadline for nomination for the sisters, receiving verbal nominations by phone, and post-deadline payment of membership fees. Unfortunately, in order to bring some order into the process, some nominations were removed (verbal nominations and new members) and voting rights were revoked for those who have been members for less than 4 months. Statistics show that this year's membership is 30% less than last year.
Two factors led to that phenomenon. first, the low profile given to the membership drive. The window was open for only 2 weeks, although the constitution defines eligible voters and members to those who have applied at least 120 days. Second, it is claimed that the 300% increase in membership fees led to the unfortunate decline in membership. Although some speculate that this might have been intentional to facilitate a 50% quorum, it is unjustifiable to exclude members rather than to reduce the quorum percentage.
It is understandable that first trials are usually laden with new lessons, but it is now up to the new administration to thoroughly organize the structure of the election process to make it more equitable and just to all members of the community.
1995 - 1996 Changes
This year's ISGC election was characterized by Confusion and low turnout. In spite of the habitual pattern by which elections were held since 1984, it was as though this was the first year it has been done. Only one week before the membership drive was closed, an election committee was selected. Members of the committee who did not have any previous experience were unaware of many constitutional requirements that needed to be fulfilled. When the election committee searched for the previous election file that contained many valuable information on the procedures, they discovered it had disappeared! Confusion resulted from the sporadic distribution of nomination forms, especially on the sisters' side, additional forms for the computer center and lack of understanding of the nomination and membership constitutional requirements.
As a result, strange things happened, like extending the deadline for nomination for the sisters, receiving verbal nominations by phone, and post-deadline payment of membership fees. Unfortunately, in order to bring some order into the process, some nominations were removed (verbal nominations and new members) and voting rights were revoked for those who have been members for less than 4 months. Statistics show that this year's membership is 30% less than last year.
Two factors led to that phenomenon. first, the low profile given to the membership drive. The window was open for only 2 weeks, although the constitution defines eligible voters and members to those who have applied at least 120 days. Second, it is claimed that the 300% increase in membership fees led to the unfortunate decline in membership. Although some speculate that this might have been intentional to facilitate a 50% quorum, it is unjustifiable to exclude members rather than to reduce the quorum percentage.
It is understandable that first trials are usually laden with new lessons, but it is now up to the new administration to thoroughly organize the structure of the election process to make it more equitable and just to all members of the community.
1995 - 1996 Changes
- Total Members 155 84 -30%
- New Members 95 15 -73%
- General Assembly 68 42 -24%
- Sisters Enrolled 35 16 -37%
- Membership ($) 05 15 -300%
June 1996 Mosque Visit
Recently some 50 children from the sixth grade at Maryland Avenue Elementary School in Bexley came to visit the Omar Mosque for a field trip. they went to a church, then a synagogue before getting to the mosque.
Some people from the mosque met them at the door and welcomed them, showing them how to take their shoes off and put them in the shoe racks. Then they entered the prayer area where Sr. Hanan [Farhan] recited some Quran for them in Arabic. Br. Sufyan Matus told them a little about Islam and Br. Ayman Ismail showed slides about mosques. A display corner behind the speakers was prepared by some sisters with lots of carpets and pictures of mosques and some Islamic art pieces.
Afterwards they received bookmarks with Arabic writing on them and cookies to eat on the bus back to school. These are some of the letters we received in return:
Dear Omar Ibn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for letting us come to your mosque. we could tell you had planned your presentation. All the presenters did a good job. we also enjoyed getting bookmarks. Tell the woman who read the Quran that she did a good job. I liked your display in the corner with models, calendars, books, and more. Those cookie things were really good. My class could easily find symbols of Islam, minarets, the Kaaba, and prayer rugs to name a few. Thanks again!
Salaam, Daniel Blair
Dear Omar Ibn El Khattab,
Thank you very much for letting our sixth grade classes come to your mosque. We all learned a ot. The mosque was a real good symbol from your religion.
You were very generous for helping us learn about your religion. Thank you very much for bringing in all those maps of Mecca and other unique things.
The slide show was really great. We had a real interest in learning about your religion, and facts about Mecca and other places and things you have to go to and follow.
Sincerely, Masha Slivnyak
Dear Congregation of Omar Ebn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for having us, the sixth grade at Maryland Avenue School for your field trip yesterday. I learned so much about Islam. It's such an interesting religion! I especially enjoyed the reading of the Koran and the slide show! You were the friendliest congregation that we went to!
Thanks, Simone Gabel
Dear Congregation of Omar Ibn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for the wonderful time. I wish we could have stayed longer. You made that the best stop of the day (except for MacDonalds). You made us wonderful cookies and bookmarks. Thank you for the wonderful 45 minutes that day and most likely that week.
Thanks again, Jenn Jarrell
Some people from the mosque met them at the door and welcomed them, showing them how to take their shoes off and put them in the shoe racks. Then they entered the prayer area where Sr. Hanan [Farhan] recited some Quran for them in Arabic. Br. Sufyan Matus told them a little about Islam and Br. Ayman Ismail showed slides about mosques. A display corner behind the speakers was prepared by some sisters with lots of carpets and pictures of mosques and some Islamic art pieces.
Afterwards they received bookmarks with Arabic writing on them and cookies to eat on the bus back to school. These are some of the letters we received in return:
Dear Omar Ibn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for letting us come to your mosque. we could tell you had planned your presentation. All the presenters did a good job. we also enjoyed getting bookmarks. Tell the woman who read the Quran that she did a good job. I liked your display in the corner with models, calendars, books, and more. Those cookie things were really good. My class could easily find symbols of Islam, minarets, the Kaaba, and prayer rugs to name a few. Thanks again!
Salaam, Daniel Blair
Dear Omar Ibn El Khattab,
Thank you very much for letting our sixth grade classes come to your mosque. We all learned a ot. The mosque was a real good symbol from your religion.
You were very generous for helping us learn about your religion. Thank you very much for bringing in all those maps of Mecca and other unique things.
The slide show was really great. We had a real interest in learning about your religion, and facts about Mecca and other places and things you have to go to and follow.
Sincerely, Masha Slivnyak
Dear Congregation of Omar Ebn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for having us, the sixth grade at Maryland Avenue School for your field trip yesterday. I learned so much about Islam. It's such an interesting religion! I especially enjoyed the reading of the Koran and the slide show! You were the friendliest congregation that we went to!
Thanks, Simone Gabel
Dear Congregation of Omar Ibn El Khattab Mosque,
Thank you for the wonderful time. I wish we could have stayed longer. You made that the best stop of the day (except for MacDonalds). You made us wonderful cookies and bookmarks. Thank you for the wonderful 45 minutes that day and most likely that week.
Thanks again, Jenn Jarrell
Saturday, September 18, 2010
June 1996 News Fly Around
Islam in the OSU Medical college Curriculum
reported by Dr. Malika Haque, M.D.
Columbus (May 1996) "Islam and Medicine", by the grace of Allah, has been successfully introduced as a permanent ongoing course in the college of Medicine of the Ohio State University in the mini-module format: 4 weeks, 3 hr./wk, which is an established requirement in the Medical Humanities and Behavioral Sciences area of the College of Medicine. The context was thoughtfully designed for all the medical students who signed up. Definition of Islam, Pillars of Islam, Islamic practices and Law, Moral and Ethical Values, History, and Science were some of the topics presented leading to considerable enlivening discussions. Since Muslims now have a clear presence in the diversity of patient population on the American scene, useful courtesy, manners for communicating, and a basic knowledge of Islam were shown as necessary for improved medical management and doctor-patient rapport, particularly in community ambulatory facilities.
Guest speakers were appreciated by the students, with Dr. Asma Mobin Uddin speaking on Islam and Science and Dr. John Kashbeck relating his experiences as a Muslim physician on medical ethics. At the conclusion of the course, more than 90% of the students gave an "excellent" rating and the director of the program at the College of Medicine was excited to request that I make a continual annual presentation.
Eid-ul Adha Dinner
reported by Shahida Khan
The Eid dinner is a tradition in our community. It is a beautiful occasion for our children, ourselves, and our Muslim community. New clothes, gifts, visiting, being together, and feasting make the occation very enjoyable to children and adults alike.
Saturday, May 4, 1996 at the Whitehall Community Center, sisters and brothers from the Islamic Center and Omar mosque came together in the spirit of sacrifice and sharing to enjoy Eid Dinner.
Alhamdulillah, our community has grown many folds. Some 20 plus years ago Eid dinners took place in a small hall at the Park of Roses and later at the St. Stephen Community Center. Now even Whitehall Community Center has become small. Tables were full of different kinds of tasty, spicy, ethnic foods. for some people, some of the food was so hot that they had to use napkins to wipe their eyes. for children the big excitement was the pizza party, magic show, and goody bags.
Together with the remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim's supreme submission to Allah, we should remember other Muslims in our community and in other communities. May Allah increase our community more and more day by day. May Allah bless our community with more unity and more tolerance and love. May Allah reward those people who worked hard selflessly to make this Eid Celebration successful.
Dear Editor
During Eid Prayers
Over the years, Subhannahllah, the Muslim community has grown considerably in Central Ohio. Particularly at Eid prayers, a Jamaa of 3000 to 4000, sisters, and children is quite common. We are a cultured, caring Ummah whose collective organizational efforts are a norm, successful in conducting religious activities in particular.
Due to the request of some of the sisters, in as gentle way as possible, it is necessary to bring our attention to a rather disquieting mannerism during the Eid Khutbah (lecture). Immediately after the salat, while the khateeb is lecturing, a small number of people are getting up and walking. Some are talking, some are leaving, and forming conversational groups (particularly in the ladies section.)
All of us should clearly realize that salat and khutbah are one entity and we are present to please Allah (SWT). We should all listen to the khutbah, honor the khateeb and rejoice after the salah and khutbah. As an elder of the community, who has been part of organizing Eid prayers for over 15 years, "no offense is meant to anyone". Let us be simply knowledgeable and exemplary in our acts.
C. Azeez ul Haq
Muslim Student Association Officer Elections
Recently on the Ohio State University campus, the Muslim Student Association held elections for new officers for the remaining of this 1996 year and for next year. The results were as such:
CAIR Media-Relations Training Workshop Planned
In response to a request from some sisters, the Board of Trustees invites all women to an open discussion on June 16th at noon in the sister's Meeting Room of the Omar Mosque.
Br. Safwan Halabi - Amir
Br. Muhammad Abdul Haq - Secretary
Br. Samer Suleiman - Treasurer
Sr. Bonita McGee - Information
Sr. Habeeba Gaiter - Sisters' Affairs
What: Ibrahim Hooper, National Communications Director for the Council onWomen's Get-Together
American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), will conduct a workshop to train Muslims in
techniques of effective media and public relations.
When: Saturday, June 8,
1996 10 am-12:30 pm, Inshallah
Where: Islamic Center, 1428 E. Broad St.
Who: All are welcome. Please RSVP XXX-XXXX Admission is free. Donations to
CAIR appreciated. Sponsored by IFCO Public Relations Committee
In response to a request from some sisters, the Board of Trustees invites all women to an open discussion on June 16th at noon in the sister's Meeting Room of the Omar Mosque.
- Do you want a women's organization under the ISGC?
- How would you visualize this organization?
- What role would you like to play?
June 1996 Mr. President
by Ayman Ismail
Exclusive interview with Br. Siraj Akhtar, newly elected president of ISGC as he talks about hopes, aspirations and goals for the next year.
In a reclining chair at his oval office... Actually, on a keyboard behind an eye-exhausting monitor, Mr. Akhtar, a graduate student in electrical engineering at OSU, tells IQRA! why he thinks this year is going to witness some major changes in this community.
"My first action as president is to ban IQRA! and expel its staff members from our organization!!!" says Mr. Akhtar humorously before returning to his usual seriousness.
Q: As President with limited resources, how do you see your number one priority?
"Among the first issues, " said Br. Siraj, "is enhancing the structure of the organization to optimize our efforts in order to achieve maximum cooperation amongst us."
Mr. Akhtar sees many problems with the current ISGC constitution, with which he was once involved in developing, that must be addressed in order to smoothen the organizational structure, and to define specifically the roles of the different bodies, especially the BOT.
"Another important priority is to enhance the participation of the various ethnic and linguistic groups that comprise the diverse fabric of our community," said Br. Siraj.
Q: The ISGC, in spite of its deliberate reorganization for greater unity in the community, is still accused of being student-based, insensitive to African-Americans and self centered. How do you plan to address these issues?
"Any organization is only a reflection of its members and those who participate in its activities," said Br. Siraj. "If more students and non-African Americans participate, we cannot blame them for excluding others. Rather, we strongly urge everyone to help and participate in making our community better. There has never been, and Inshallah will never be, any attempt, official or otherwise, to prevent any person from participating in any of the activities of the organization, within the limits of the Book of Allah (SWT) and the authentic sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Whether you are an African American, or an Arab student or a green creature with blue stripes from Mars, we could care less. All we want are committed Muslims ready to serve for the betterment of themselves, their community and the entire Ummah, only for the sake of Allah (SWT)."
Br. Siraj, himself from Pakistan, clearly states that the ISGC does not believe in favoring one person over another, simply because he belongs to a minority group. The overriding criterion has got to do with the willingness to work and deliver the best results, with only the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in mind.
"At the same time," he added, "it would be naive of me to say that all ethnic and cultural groups participate in the ISGC. Obviously many don't. Many of them have their valid reasons. The immense challenge that lies for us, is to identify the reasons and address them. Perhaps we need to conduct detailed surveys. Perhaps we need to set up open meetings where people come and air their concerns,... we are open to all suggestions and ideas. Indeed, this is a critical objective for our organization.
As individuals, there is a lot that we can do, that we are not currently doing. For example, when we see a new individual at the masjid, how many of us go up to him and say salaam, and ask him how he is doing? If we do so the first time we see him, do we bother to greet him and inquire about him every time we see him?... There is a brother from Nigeria that I see very often at the masjid, yet I don't see others talking to him and trying to be friendly. The masjid can be a very unfriendly and uninviting place for those who are new and don't know others. Obviously, this problem is very much [more] profound for non-Arabs, than for Arabs. We need to address this, not be telling the Arab brothers to be more friendly towards others, but rather by reminding them and educating them of what Islam says about this issue. Unless and until we can educate the people about the authentic Islamic teachings, we will see problems like these, and others arising out of ignorance of the masses.
Finally, Br. Siraj, who has barely accepted his nomination, extends a sincere call upon everyone to join the ISGC in order to make it a better place for all. "I know many have their doubts and concerns," he says, "some which are genuine and others which are not. I do not ask that you set them aside and forget about the,, but all I ask is that you come to us, air your concerns and work with us, in improving ourselves and our organization. Let us work in the spirit of the Quran and authentic sunnah, and then if we do not deliver, I will be the first to say that you have a genuine reason not to participate in the organization."
Election Results
Fiqh council:
Dr. Salah El-Sawi,
M. Adam Elsheikh, and
Safwat Morsi.
New Board of Trustees Members:
Safwan Halabi,
Abdullah Al-Amiri,
Aly Eman, and
Mohamed Matus.
General Body Representative seats for the 2 year term ending '98:
Ashfaq Tashfeen,
Mohamed Salem,
Siraj Akhtar,
Hazem Gheith,
Suhail Munir,
Bilal Farhan, and
Asmaa Al-Khourasat.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
May 1996 CAIR's Executive Director Visits OBK Mosque
by Fauzi Labidi
On Friday April 12, 1996, the Muslim community in Central Ohio had the pleasure to listen to Nihad Awad, the executive director of CAIR. CAIR stands for Council on American Islamic Relations. Nihad Awad is a prominent Muslim activist who champions Islamic causes and works tirelessly towards the betterment of Muslims civil rights in North American. CAIR plays a vital role in presenting and defending issues relevant to the lives and the well-being of the Muslim communities in North America. Through their Action Alerts, they keep the Muslim communities abreast of what's happening to their fellow brothers and sisters in the U.S. and abroad, as well as monitor and advise media in matters related to Muslims. In his lecture, Br. Niahd highlighted the major functions undertaken by CAIR.
1. Media Relations
CAIR works with media professionals in the U.S. to help shape a positive image about Islam. Due to the fact that the American Public is generally ignorant about Islam, there is a tendency to stereotype Muslims in a very negative way. CAIR plays a critical role in trying to reshape and straighten people's views of Muslims by empowering the Muslim communities to take a pro-active role in the American social and political arenas. For example, when CAIR became aware that PBS was about to air a show titled "Jihad in America" portraying Muslims living in the U.S. as a group of thugs whose sole mission is to terrify people, an action alert was sent to all Muslim communities in the U.s. In their action alert, CAIR directed Muslims to contact their local PBS station protesting the airing of this show. Many communities in the U.S. were successful in blocking this show from going on the air. Some others, such as the one in Columbus, were successful in making the station invite representatives from the Muslim communities to express their views on following the airing of the show.
2. Conferences and Seminars
CAIR organizes conferences and seminars for media professionals, government officials, and the academic community. These events are designed to present otherwise unavailable information about Islam and Muslims.
3. Anti-Discrimination Work
CAIR solicits Muslims in North America to inform the organization of any discriminatory act committed against them such as denying the right of a Muslim employee to attend jumah prayer, or firing a sister from her job for wearing hijab. CAIR works through its legal advisors and local activists in pursuing these cases to ensure that Muslim civil rights are protected.
4. Lobbying
CAIR lobbies political leaders on matters relevant to Islam and Muslims in North America. CAIR plays a vital role in informing the mulsim communities about legislation that might have an effect on their rights and directing them to write and call government officials to express their feelings towards those matters.
5. Training/Outreach
CAIR trains American Muslim community activists and leaders in techniques of effective media and public relations, lobbying, and public speaking. They offer internships to students and interested individuals who wish to gain experience in media relations, political activism, and anti-discrimination work.
6. Inter-Faith Relations
CAIR plays a critical role in promoting a positive co-existence between Islam and the different religious denominations. CAIR works towards this goal through public education and inter-faith cooperation.
How can you help? You can help CAIR by doing one or all of the following: becoming a member, establishing a CAIR chapter in your community, and donating generously to help cover the expenses and costs incurred in this work. CAIR is a non-profit organization.
For more information on CAIR, please call or write to: _____________
On Friday April 12, 1996, the Muslim community in Central Ohio had the pleasure to listen to Nihad Awad, the executive director of CAIR. CAIR stands for Council on American Islamic Relations. Nihad Awad is a prominent Muslim activist who champions Islamic causes and works tirelessly towards the betterment of Muslims civil rights in North American. CAIR plays a vital role in presenting and defending issues relevant to the lives and the well-being of the Muslim communities in North America. Through their Action Alerts, they keep the Muslim communities abreast of what's happening to their fellow brothers and sisters in the U.S. and abroad, as well as monitor and advise media in matters related to Muslims. In his lecture, Br. Niahd highlighted the major functions undertaken by CAIR.
1. Media Relations
CAIR works with media professionals in the U.S. to help shape a positive image about Islam. Due to the fact that the American Public is generally ignorant about Islam, there is a tendency to stereotype Muslims in a very negative way. CAIR plays a critical role in trying to reshape and straighten people's views of Muslims by empowering the Muslim communities to take a pro-active role in the American social and political arenas. For example, when CAIR became aware that PBS was about to air a show titled "Jihad in America" portraying Muslims living in the U.S. as a group of thugs whose sole mission is to terrify people, an action alert was sent to all Muslim communities in the U.s. In their action alert, CAIR directed Muslims to contact their local PBS station protesting the airing of this show. Many communities in the U.S. were successful in blocking this show from going on the air. Some others, such as the one in Columbus, were successful in making the station invite representatives from the Muslim communities to express their views on following the airing of the show.
2. Conferences and Seminars
CAIR organizes conferences and seminars for media professionals, government officials, and the academic community. These events are designed to present otherwise unavailable information about Islam and Muslims.
3. Anti-Discrimination Work
CAIR solicits Muslims in North America to inform the organization of any discriminatory act committed against them such as denying the right of a Muslim employee to attend jumah prayer, or firing a sister from her job for wearing hijab. CAIR works through its legal advisors and local activists in pursuing these cases to ensure that Muslim civil rights are protected.
4. Lobbying
CAIR lobbies political leaders on matters relevant to Islam and Muslims in North America. CAIR plays a vital role in informing the mulsim communities about legislation that might have an effect on their rights and directing them to write and call government officials to express their feelings towards those matters.
5. Training/Outreach
CAIR trains American Muslim community activists and leaders in techniques of effective media and public relations, lobbying, and public speaking. They offer internships to students and interested individuals who wish to gain experience in media relations, political activism, and anti-discrimination work.
6. Inter-Faith Relations
CAIR plays a critical role in promoting a positive co-existence between Islam and the different religious denominations. CAIR works towards this goal through public education and inter-faith cooperation.
How can you help? You can help CAIR by doing one or all of the following: becoming a member, establishing a CAIR chapter in your community, and donating generously to help cover the expenses and costs incurred in this work. CAIR is a non-profit organization.
For more information on CAIR, please call or write to: _____________
May 1996 News Fly Around
Movie Defames Muslims
Los Angeles, CA, April 1 - Muslim communities nationwide handed out leaflets about Islam outside theaters to counter the new anti-Islam stunt movie "Executive Decision" by Warner bros. In the movie all the non-Muslims in the movie were either victims or heroes, while every Muslim was either a criminal or a terrorist.
After negotiations with the producing company did not result in clipping stereotypical and defaming images about Muslims from the movie, Muslim organizations like CAIR opted for positive measures to counter the propaganda. Without causing a fuss that would further increase the sale of the movie, members from Muslim communities simply handed out the true facts about Muslims and highlighted the erroneous message of the movie, something that Warner Bros did not like.
Hotel Apologizes Rehires Muslim Woman
Washington, D.C. 4/22/96 Alhamdulillah, your calls, faxes and letters achieved a positive result once again. Management officials of a Virginia Quality Inn hotel have apologized to and rehired a Muslim woman who was denied a job because she refused to remove her head scarf. The hotel also gave the woman compensation for time lost and for attorney's fees. According to a Washington Post article on the incident, Philip Kirby, the owner of the hotel, said, "When we got a chance to look at it and see what the community's reaction was, we felt we had made a bad decision... We apologize for any inconvenience or suffering we caused her." The hotel plans to rework its dress code.
2500 Turn Out for Mosque Open House
Washington, DC April 2. Leaders of the Denver, Colorado Muslim community say some 2,500 people turned out for a mosque Open House propted by the March 19 intrusion into that facility by employees of a local radio station. Many local dignitaries, including Denver's mayor and the U.S. Attorney in Denver, attended the open house. Five people embraced Islam on the day of the open house, Alhamdulillah.
This mosque was subjected earlier to a hate crime by a local radio station - who invaded the mosque and harassed worshippers, while on the air. Five radio employees have been charged as a result of that stunt.
Editorial Cartoonist apologizes for Defaming Islam
Jim Morin, a syndicated cartoonist who works for the Miami Herald newspaper, has apologized for a recent cartoon in which he drew an ape-like creature with the word "Islam" on its head. The creature is shown saying, "We bomb innocent women and children to smithereens!" After CAIR and other Musli organizations posted information about the cartoon on the internet, Morin begn receiving cals, faxes and e-mail messages.
In a letter to CAIR, Morin said, "I have spoken to many hurt, outraged members of the Muslim faith this past four days. It has been an educational experience for me... To those whom I have unintentionally hurt or insulted, please accept my sincere apologies."
Web Site Removes NOI Connection
OSU Campus, April 5 - The MSA at OSU managed to convince YAHOO! , the world wide web search facility to remove the Nation of Islam from the list of Islamic resources. The MSA was concerned about how Yahoo included Nation of Islam resources with Islamic resources, and sent a strong letter of complaint to Yahoo..
"The students I represent are very offended that Yahoo would include the Nation of Islam - a religion that preaches racial hatred, founded less than 50 years ago - with Islam, a religion that speaks of peace and religious harmony founded almost 1500 years ago." said Alaa, MSA President in his protest.
In their response, Anne Callery from Yahoo said, "[We] find that the Muslim community in general does not consider the Nation of Islam as part of the Muslim religion. It was our initial understanding that the Nation of Islam identified strongly with Islam, which is why the cross reference to Islam was added. However, after examining the Nation of Islam web sites, we are unable to find evidence of this feeling in their organization. Therefore, the link to Islam has been removed."
George Mason University Gets New Union with Wudu Facilities
Fairfax, VA - March 12 - A new $30 million student union was opened with facilities for making wudu in every main restroom. Interestingly, the Muslim Student Association on that campus did not lobby for them. However, jummah prayer was held close to one of the deans' offices, who felt there was a need for a proper wudu facility and included the wudu area in the plan for the new building. This marks another positive step taken by some universities in recent months to accommodate Muslim students.
Islamic Attire: A View of Elegance and comfort
Date: May 11, 1996 - Time: 6-8 pm Location: Hitchcock Hall, (OSU)
Tickets: $3 - student $5 - adult (pre-sale and at the door) A sample of Muslim food specialties are included in the ticket cost.
To share our cultural attire for dress at home and at Muslim Women's functions while emphasizing the proper dress a Muslim displays while outside her home, Muslim sisters from a multiple of cultural background are participating in a program of fashion display (program for women only).
All proceeds from this event will go to the school fund for the full-time school in Hilliard. Donations are always accepted graciously.
For further information please contact Sr. Rhoda at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Bonita at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Shireen at XXX-XXXX. Inshallah, vendors of Islamic dress will be located outside of the hall. Any interested vendors contact the organizers.
Women Speaking from Behind the Veil
Speech by Sister Aminah Assilmi, noted Muslim Feminist at Hitchcock Hall, OSU May 15th from 6 to 8 pm.
IFCO Forms Public Relations Committee
by Asma Mobin-Uddin
The Islamic Foundation of Central Ohio (IFCO) has now formed a Public Relations Committee. Members of this P.R. Committee have met and have agreed that work will be done in four areas: media relations, school communication, establishment of a Speakers Bureau, and compilation of an Islamic Reference Base.
In the area of media relations, our goal is to promote an understanding of true Islam by working with the media to encourage accurate and respectful coverage of events related to Islam. The PRC is also establishing a network that can quickly respond when Muslim reaction to news coverage is needed. The committee regularly responds to current events and has worked on coverage of the present Eid.
The committee is also working to facilitate communication with local schools about Islam and we are setting up a Speakers Bureau of Muslim available to speak in the community. Six Muslim speakers will represent Islam the week of April 22 at the Bexley Schools during their week long commemoration to the city of Jerusalem's 300th anniversary.
The PRC is establishing an Islamic Reference Base to support the Speakers Bureau and to educate non-Muslims. A bibliography of all the literature in English available on Islam at the OSU library has been compiled. It contains over 2000 references by Muslim, Christian, and Jewish authors. This database will be available in hard copy and on a computer disk at the IFCO library. Diskette copies will also be available for those wishing to put this database on their home computer. May Allah support and bless the efforts of the committee as it strives in His cause. The members are: Rashid and Vera Al-Sabur, Andy Amid, Mohammad (Razi) and Ghazala Asghar, Vicki Bashir, Mohammed and Kathy Ballouz, Mohamed Gohar, Asma Mobin-Uddin, and Alam and Parveen Payind. If anyone wishes to work with the committee or be part of the Sepakers Bureau, please contact Sr. Asma Mobin-Uddin at XXX-XXXX.
ISGC forms School Task Force
Columbus, April 7 - At a joint meeting of all the school committees, the 10 member School Task Force was chosen based on being nominated by 50% or more of the committee members. If there were not 10 fount by this method, the remainder would be selected by the board of trustees of the ISGC based on committee recommendations. The new task force is: Amr Elsaadany, Arjumand Haque, Sohail Khan, Adnan Khasawneh, Mahmood Moosa, Amgad Saleh, Mohamed Shareef, Norma Tarazi, Ahmad Al Akhras, and Rhoda Abdul-Matin.
ISGC Summer School Planning meeting
Do you like to do craft projects with children? Would you like to start a soccer tournament for the kids this summer? Anyone for volley ball? Could you help children learning Quran? Come be a part of the planning - be part of the action. attend the planning session May 13th at 7 pm at the Omar Mosque.
The summer school program has usually been organized by interested parents and other adults as a volunteer effort to provide some fun and educational activities for children during some of the weekdays of summer. This summer we expect to use the new school facility in Hilliard, air conditioned and surrounded by grass, and just across the street from a beautiful park. We hope to be able to offer more than we ever have before.
Do you have any time to volunteer? Male OSU students are particularly needed to help with the boys.
Los Angeles, CA, April 1 - Muslim communities nationwide handed out leaflets about Islam outside theaters to counter the new anti-Islam stunt movie "Executive Decision" by Warner bros. In the movie all the non-Muslims in the movie were either victims or heroes, while every Muslim was either a criminal or a terrorist.
After negotiations with the producing company did not result in clipping stereotypical and defaming images about Muslims from the movie, Muslim organizations like CAIR opted for positive measures to counter the propaganda. Without causing a fuss that would further increase the sale of the movie, members from Muslim communities simply handed out the true facts about Muslims and highlighted the erroneous message of the movie, something that Warner Bros did not like.
Hotel Apologizes Rehires Muslim Woman
Washington, D.C. 4/22/96 Alhamdulillah, your calls, faxes and letters achieved a positive result once again. Management officials of a Virginia Quality Inn hotel have apologized to and rehired a Muslim woman who was denied a job because she refused to remove her head scarf. The hotel also gave the woman compensation for time lost and for attorney's fees. According to a Washington Post article on the incident, Philip Kirby, the owner of the hotel, said, "When we got a chance to look at it and see what the community's reaction was, we felt we had made a bad decision... We apologize for any inconvenience or suffering we caused her." The hotel plans to rework its dress code.
2500 Turn Out for Mosque Open House
Washington, DC April 2. Leaders of the Denver, Colorado Muslim community say some 2,500 people turned out for a mosque Open House propted by the March 19 intrusion into that facility by employees of a local radio station. Many local dignitaries, including Denver's mayor and the U.S. Attorney in Denver, attended the open house. Five people embraced Islam on the day of the open house, Alhamdulillah.
This mosque was subjected earlier to a hate crime by a local radio station - who invaded the mosque and harassed worshippers, while on the air. Five radio employees have been charged as a result of that stunt.
Editorial Cartoonist apologizes for Defaming Islam
Jim Morin, a syndicated cartoonist who works for the Miami Herald newspaper, has apologized for a recent cartoon in which he drew an ape-like creature with the word "Islam" on its head. The creature is shown saying, "We bomb innocent women and children to smithereens!" After CAIR and other Musli organizations posted information about the cartoon on the internet, Morin begn receiving cals, faxes and e-mail messages.
In a letter to CAIR, Morin said, "I have spoken to many hurt, outraged members of the Muslim faith this past four days. It has been an educational experience for me... To those whom I have unintentionally hurt or insulted, please accept my sincere apologies."
Web Site Removes NOI Connection
OSU Campus, April 5 - The MSA at OSU managed to convince YAHOO! , the world wide web search facility to remove the Nation of Islam from the list of Islamic resources. The MSA was concerned about how Yahoo included Nation of Islam resources with Islamic resources, and sent a strong letter of complaint to Yahoo..
"The students I represent are very offended that Yahoo would include the Nation of Islam - a religion that preaches racial hatred, founded less than 50 years ago - with Islam, a religion that speaks of peace and religious harmony founded almost 1500 years ago." said Alaa, MSA President in his protest.
In their response, Anne Callery from Yahoo said, "[We] find that the Muslim community in general does not consider the Nation of Islam as part of the Muslim religion. It was our initial understanding that the Nation of Islam identified strongly with Islam, which is why the cross reference to Islam was added. However, after examining the Nation of Islam web sites, we are unable to find evidence of this feeling in their organization. Therefore, the link to Islam has been removed."
George Mason University Gets New Union with Wudu Facilities
Fairfax, VA - March 12 - A new $30 million student union was opened with facilities for making wudu in every main restroom. Interestingly, the Muslim Student Association on that campus did not lobby for them. However, jummah prayer was held close to one of the deans' offices, who felt there was a need for a proper wudu facility and included the wudu area in the plan for the new building. This marks another positive step taken by some universities in recent months to accommodate Muslim students.
Islamic Attire: A View of Elegance and comfort
Date: May 11, 1996 - Time: 6-8 pm Location: Hitchcock Hall, (OSU)
Tickets: $3 - student $5 - adult (pre-sale and at the door) A sample of Muslim food specialties are included in the ticket cost.
To share our cultural attire for dress at home and at Muslim Women's functions while emphasizing the proper dress a Muslim displays while outside her home, Muslim sisters from a multiple of cultural background are participating in a program of fashion display (program for women only).
All proceeds from this event will go to the school fund for the full-time school in Hilliard. Donations are always accepted graciously.
For further information please contact Sr. Rhoda at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Bonita at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Shireen at XXX-XXXX. Inshallah, vendors of Islamic dress will be located outside of the hall. Any interested vendors contact the organizers.
Women Speaking from Behind the Veil
Speech by Sister Aminah Assilmi, noted Muslim Feminist at Hitchcock Hall, OSU May 15th from 6 to 8 pm.
IFCO Forms Public Relations Committee
by Asma Mobin-Uddin
The Islamic Foundation of Central Ohio (IFCO) has now formed a Public Relations Committee. Members of this P.R. Committee have met and have agreed that work will be done in four areas: media relations, school communication, establishment of a Speakers Bureau, and compilation of an Islamic Reference Base.
In the area of media relations, our goal is to promote an understanding of true Islam by working with the media to encourage accurate and respectful coverage of events related to Islam. The PRC is also establishing a network that can quickly respond when Muslim reaction to news coverage is needed. The committee regularly responds to current events and has worked on coverage of the present Eid.
The committee is also working to facilitate communication with local schools about Islam and we are setting up a Speakers Bureau of Muslim available to speak in the community. Six Muslim speakers will represent Islam the week of April 22 at the Bexley Schools during their week long commemoration to the city of Jerusalem's 300th anniversary.
The PRC is establishing an Islamic Reference Base to support the Speakers Bureau and to educate non-Muslims. A bibliography of all the literature in English available on Islam at the OSU library has been compiled. It contains over 2000 references by Muslim, Christian, and Jewish authors. This database will be available in hard copy and on a computer disk at the IFCO library. Diskette copies will also be available for those wishing to put this database on their home computer. May Allah support and bless the efforts of the committee as it strives in His cause. The members are: Rashid and Vera Al-Sabur, Andy Amid, Mohammad (Razi) and Ghazala Asghar, Vicki Bashir, Mohammed and Kathy Ballouz, Mohamed Gohar, Asma Mobin-Uddin, and Alam and Parveen Payind. If anyone wishes to work with the committee or be part of the Sepakers Bureau, please contact Sr. Asma Mobin-Uddin at XXX-XXXX.
ISGC forms School Task Force
Columbus, April 7 - At a joint meeting of all the school committees, the 10 member School Task Force was chosen based on being nominated by 50% or more of the committee members. If there were not 10 fount by this method, the remainder would be selected by the board of trustees of the ISGC based on committee recommendations. The new task force is: Amr Elsaadany, Arjumand Haque, Sohail Khan, Adnan Khasawneh, Mahmood Moosa, Amgad Saleh, Mohamed Shareef, Norma Tarazi, Ahmad Al Akhras, and Rhoda Abdul-Matin.
ISGC Summer School Planning meeting
Do you like to do craft projects with children? Would you like to start a soccer tournament for the kids this summer? Anyone for volley ball? Could you help children learning Quran? Come be a part of the planning - be part of the action. attend the planning session May 13th at 7 pm at the Omar Mosque.
The summer school program has usually been organized by interested parents and other adults as a volunteer effort to provide some fun and educational activities for children during some of the weekdays of summer. This summer we expect to use the new school facility in Hilliard, air conditioned and surrounded by grass, and just across the street from a beautiful park. We hope to be able to offer more than we ever have before.
Do you have any time to volunteer? Male OSU students are particularly needed to help with the boys.
Friday, September 3, 2010
April 1996 Progress in Communication
by Norma Tarazi
So often, we sigh and nod together, us Muslims, over the incomprehension of your faith by non-Muslims, of their disregard and disrespect for our feelings, our holidays, our salat, our moral values. Well, we need to note any step in the direction toward understanding that they make, and encourage them in that direction. Several stories came in over the news in the last 2 months about the improved relations we are making. did you know that at the University of Syracuse they now serve halal food in the student residences? They also closed the university in observance of Eid this year, just like they close for Christmas. they are probably the first university to do so, but such recognition is a start and we hope to continue in this direction. The Muslim community reported that their negotiations with university officials were cordial and reasonable at all times, and they obtained these changes in university policy peacefully, without threats or arm twisting.
Hillary Clinton gave an Eid Party at the White House this last Eid. Her daughter Chelsea, has been studying Islam at school and brought her new information to her mother some months ago, before their trip to South East Asia. this brought Mrs. Clinton to a better understanding of Muslims in our country, and she invited about 200 Muslims, families with their children, for an Eid Party, to respect our religion as Christmas, Easter, and Hanukah are represented at the White House. She wrote an article about this experience to the newspapers. They ate lots of different specialties, meat dumplings, pita bread, hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and pastries. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach, people say. The way to help improve understanding among people may be to share more food with them, like these Muslims did with Mrs. Clinton. Here in Columbus, our local MSA did with their Iftar Party at OSU. IQRA! wrote last month about the news coverage of Br. Hakeem Olajuwon's fasting during Ramadan. This month we saw Br. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf of the Denver Nuggets refusing to stand for the national anthem. This controversy did not turn out standard negative publicity for us. Several commentators compared Abdul-Rauf to other non-Muslims who have made public statements of similar kind, like Sandy Koufax. Several major writers spoke up defending his freedom of speech and discussing how poorly many spectators react to the anthem.
We now have Muslim public relations experts to contact the press and give them a reaciton from the Muslim community. CAIR and others were reasonably able to respond to reporters so that the public could understand this as a personal decision of Br. Abdul-Rauf, not as an act demanded of all Muslims. The event culminated with the interview of Br. Hakeem Olajuwon, who helped mediate the problem and resolve it in a peaceful, undramatic way. An article in Newsweek of March 25th is particularly interesting. Frank Deford, the author, manages to respect Abdul-Rauf for his faith and explain his act as an excess of zeal in a new convert. Deford's understanding of the Muslim situation is commendable.
We can see progress in media coverage of Muslims. Hopefully this is a trend. Let us seek to create more examples of this kind. The truth, properly and decently presented, may take more time to be noticed over the strident screaming of slander and sensationalism, but, with continuous effort and the help of Allah (SWT) we will create a better understanding of Islam throughout the United States and the world.
So often, we sigh and nod together, us Muslims, over the incomprehension of your faith by non-Muslims, of their disregard and disrespect for our feelings, our holidays, our salat, our moral values. Well, we need to note any step in the direction toward understanding that they make, and encourage them in that direction. Several stories came in over the news in the last 2 months about the improved relations we are making. did you know that at the University of Syracuse they now serve halal food in the student residences? They also closed the university in observance of Eid this year, just like they close for Christmas. they are probably the first university to do so, but such recognition is a start and we hope to continue in this direction. The Muslim community reported that their negotiations with university officials were cordial and reasonable at all times, and they obtained these changes in university policy peacefully, without threats or arm twisting.
Hillary Clinton gave an Eid Party at the White House this last Eid. Her daughter Chelsea, has been studying Islam at school and brought her new information to her mother some months ago, before their trip to South East Asia. this brought Mrs. Clinton to a better understanding of Muslims in our country, and she invited about 200 Muslims, families with their children, for an Eid Party, to respect our religion as Christmas, Easter, and Hanukah are represented at the White House. She wrote an article about this experience to the newspapers. They ate lots of different specialties, meat dumplings, pita bread, hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and pastries. The way to a man's heart is through his stomach, people say. The way to help improve understanding among people may be to share more food with them, like these Muslims did with Mrs. Clinton. Here in Columbus, our local MSA did with their Iftar Party at OSU. IQRA! wrote last month about the news coverage of Br. Hakeem Olajuwon's fasting during Ramadan. This month we saw Br. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf of the Denver Nuggets refusing to stand for the national anthem. This controversy did not turn out standard negative publicity for us. Several commentators compared Abdul-Rauf to other non-Muslims who have made public statements of similar kind, like Sandy Koufax. Several major writers spoke up defending his freedom of speech and discussing how poorly many spectators react to the anthem.
We now have Muslim public relations experts to contact the press and give them a reaciton from the Muslim community. CAIR and others were reasonably able to respond to reporters so that the public could understand this as a personal decision of Br. Abdul-Rauf, not as an act demanded of all Muslims. The event culminated with the interview of Br. Hakeem Olajuwon, who helped mediate the problem and resolve it in a peaceful, undramatic way. An article in Newsweek of March 25th is particularly interesting. Frank Deford, the author, manages to respect Abdul-Rauf for his faith and explain his act as an excess of zeal in a new convert. Deford's understanding of the Muslim situation is commendable.
We can see progress in media coverage of Muslims. Hopefully this is a trend. Let us seek to create more examples of this kind. The truth, properly and decently presented, may take more time to be noticed over the strident screaming of slander and sensationalism, but, with continuous effort and the help of Allah (SWT) we will create a better understanding of Islam throughout the United States and the world.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
March 1996 Announcements
Hajj Workshop Planned
The Msajid al Islam plans two workshops to help prepare those who aspire to make Hajj, as we all do, inshallah. The first workshop is all about Hajj and well be held Saturday February 24 at 1 pm. The second will be Hajj and preparation on Sunday, February 25 also at 1 pm, just after duhr prayer. there will be guest speakers from the Hajj Committee of Atlanta, Georgia to conduct the workshop. they will also be invited guests at the Eid Dinner Saturday night. Masjid Al Islam is located at 1677 Oak St. Columbus. For more information call XXX-XXXXX.
Teacher Workshop Planned
A workshop for Muslim teachers will be held at the Omar Mosque on Tuesday, March 25th, at 7 pm (between Maghreb and Isha). It will be conducted by Sr. Daaiyah Saleem MA Education, a current doctoral student at OSU. The workshop is the springboard for a series to be developed by the teachers according to their needs and interests. This first workshop will be titled "Islamic Education - defining the vision." All Muslim teachers are invited to attend. For more information call XXX-XXXX.
Masjid al Islam announces their Eid Dinner Saturday, February 24, at 7:00 pm Union Hall, 620 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus. Banquet costs are $20 for adults, $10 for children.
The Ladies of the English Halaqah of the Omar Mosque present: Eid Party! for ladies and girls, ten years and older at Selby Park Shelter House on March 2, 1996, 3 to 6 pm. It is an organized Pot Luck. Please call Sr. Sandra at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Rhoda at XXX-XXXX for information/confirmation.
IFCO announces their Eid Pot Luck Dinner on Sunday February 25, 1996 at Whitehall community Park, 340 N. Hamilton Rd. Columbus. Maghrib will be at 6:18 pm and dinner will start at 6:45. A children's Program is planned to start at 8:15. IFCO asks that you bring food and please supervise your children.
Lecture for LadiesSr. Rene Moore will give a lecture March 9, 1996 at the English Sister's Study group at 4:00 pm in the Omar Mosque on the topic of Home-Based Employment for Muslim Women.
ISGC Announces Contest for School Name and Logo
The Islamic Society of Greater Columbus is in the process of searching for a name and a logo for the Islamic School which will open in September 1996, Inshallah. The muslim community is invited to participate in the selection process by submitting their ideas for a new school name with an accompanying logo. the community is encouraged to think of a suitable name for our new school and design a logo or a graphic.artistic representation which will be used with the school name. the prize will be $100. Ideas must be submitted to the name and logo selection committee no later than March 20, 1996. [address for mailing omitted]
The Msajid al Islam plans two workshops to help prepare those who aspire to make Hajj, as we all do, inshallah. The first workshop is all about Hajj and well be held Saturday February 24 at 1 pm. The second will be Hajj and preparation on Sunday, February 25 also at 1 pm, just after duhr prayer. there will be guest speakers from the Hajj Committee of Atlanta, Georgia to conduct the workshop. they will also be invited guests at the Eid Dinner Saturday night. Masjid Al Islam is located at 1677 Oak St. Columbus. For more information call XXX-XXXXX.
Teacher Workshop Planned
A workshop for Muslim teachers will be held at the Omar Mosque on Tuesday, March 25th, at 7 pm (between Maghreb and Isha). It will be conducted by Sr. Daaiyah Saleem MA Education, a current doctoral student at OSU. The workshop is the springboard for a series to be developed by the teachers according to their needs and interests. This first workshop will be titled "Islamic Education - defining the vision." All Muslim teachers are invited to attend. For more information call XXX-XXXX.
Masjid al Islam announces their Eid Dinner Saturday, February 24, at 7:00 pm Union Hall, 620 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus. Banquet costs are $20 for adults, $10 for children.
The Ladies of the English Halaqah of the Omar Mosque present: Eid Party! for ladies and girls, ten years and older at Selby Park Shelter House on March 2, 1996, 3 to 6 pm. It is an organized Pot Luck. Please call Sr. Sandra at XXX-XXXX or Sr. Rhoda at XXX-XXXX for information/confirmation.
IFCO announces their Eid Pot Luck Dinner on Sunday February 25, 1996 at Whitehall community Park, 340 N. Hamilton Rd. Columbus. Maghrib will be at 6:18 pm and dinner will start at 6:45. A children's Program is planned to start at 8:15. IFCO asks that you bring food and please supervise your children.
Lecture for LadiesSr. Rene Moore will give a lecture March 9, 1996 at the English Sister's Study group at 4:00 pm in the Omar Mosque on the topic of Home-Based Employment for Muslim Women.
ISGC Announces Contest for School Name and Logo
The Islamic Society of Greater Columbus is in the process of searching for a name and a logo for the Islamic School which will open in September 1996, Inshallah. The muslim community is invited to participate in the selection process by submitting their ideas for a new school name with an accompanying logo. the community is encouraged to think of a suitable name for our new school and design a logo or a graphic.artistic representation which will be used with the school name. the prize will be $100. Ideas must be submitted to the name and logo selection committee no later than March 20, 1996. [address for mailing omitted]
March 1996 Interfaith Iftar Held at OSU
by Habiba Gaiter
The Muslim Student Association is proud to report that after weeks of planning, we held our first Interfaith Iftar on Friday, February 9th (19 Ramadan). The event was free to all. One hundred and fifty Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus and other non-Muslims gathered in the Frank Hale Black Cultural Center at the Ohio State University for an evening of dining and of gaining knowledge on the meaning of Ramadan, Islam, and Muslims. Alhamdulillah this was a successful event n which the Muslim students here on campus were able to eliminate Muslim stereotypes and present genuine Islam effectively to the curious guests.
The program began with Br. Tariq Jalil detailing an overview of what to expect throughout the evening and Br. Aladdin Gohar giving the opening speech. following this, the Muslims broke their fasts and prayed while the guests listened to Yusuf Islam's DC, "Life of the Prophet Muhammad (PUBUH)" and prepare themselves for a feast of lamb, rice, humus, and other dishes catered by Firdous Middle Eastern style Restaurant and others. the highlight of the evening was Br. Brian Clouse's excellent speech on Islam. Alhamdulillah, his eloquent talk touched the non-Muslims and Muslims alike. Br. Clause explained in detail the five-pillars of Islam, the meaning of tawheed, the role of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the international appeal of Islam. He also took time to address many of the misconceptions surrounding Islam today. And of course, the topic of fasting in the month of Ramadan was another central aspect of his presentation. Jezak Allah Kheir to the brother for providing such an important and clear dawah to our non-Muslim guests. Inshallah through his presence, the guests were educated in better understanding Islam.
Next, a panel of six brothers and sisters answered the questions given by our guests. Even some of the Muslim guests themselves participated to help with the answering. Some inquiries of the guests' included the relationship between Christianity and Islam, Islam's view on the Day of Judgment, the difference between Nation of Islam and true Islam and questions regarding the dress of Muslim brothers and sisters. After the discussion, the guests were shown all the essentials of prayer including the adhan, wudu, and the actual salah. Towards the end of the program, salatul isha was offered and cake was distributed. Sr. Sama'a concluded the program with closing remarks and a beautiful du'a of which she read in both Arabic and English.
All praise is due to Allah (SWT) for giving the Muslim students the resources and opportunity to come together and offer the Interfaith Iftar at OSU. Inshallah our guests left the program with not only a clearer understanding of Islam, but also with a better ability to determine the differences between stereotypes and true Islam. May Allah (SWT) bless us with the chance to provide other events such as this one so we can further extend Allah's (SWT) message to even more people. Jezakum Allah Kheir to all the brothers and sisters who helped in any way in making this event a success.
The Muslim Student Association is proud to report that after weeks of planning, we held our first Interfaith Iftar on Friday, February 9th (19 Ramadan). The event was free to all. One hundred and fifty Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus and other non-Muslims gathered in the Frank Hale Black Cultural Center at the Ohio State University for an evening of dining and of gaining knowledge on the meaning of Ramadan, Islam, and Muslims. Alhamdulillah this was a successful event n which the Muslim students here on campus were able to eliminate Muslim stereotypes and present genuine Islam effectively to the curious guests.
The program began with Br. Tariq Jalil detailing an overview of what to expect throughout the evening and Br. Aladdin Gohar giving the opening speech. following this, the Muslims broke their fasts and prayed while the guests listened to Yusuf Islam's DC, "Life of the Prophet Muhammad (PUBUH)" and prepare themselves for a feast of lamb, rice, humus, and other dishes catered by Firdous Middle Eastern style Restaurant and others. the highlight of the evening was Br. Brian Clouse's excellent speech on Islam. Alhamdulillah, his eloquent talk touched the non-Muslims and Muslims alike. Br. Clause explained in detail the five-pillars of Islam, the meaning of tawheed, the role of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the international appeal of Islam. He also took time to address many of the misconceptions surrounding Islam today. And of course, the topic of fasting in the month of Ramadan was another central aspect of his presentation. Jezak Allah Kheir to the brother for providing such an important and clear dawah to our non-Muslim guests. Inshallah through his presence, the guests were educated in better understanding Islam.
Next, a panel of six brothers and sisters answered the questions given by our guests. Even some of the Muslim guests themselves participated to help with the answering. Some inquiries of the guests' included the relationship between Christianity and Islam, Islam's view on the Day of Judgment, the difference between Nation of Islam and true Islam and questions regarding the dress of Muslim brothers and sisters. After the discussion, the guests were shown all the essentials of prayer including the adhan, wudu, and the actual salah. Towards the end of the program, salatul isha was offered and cake was distributed. Sr. Sama'a concluded the program with closing remarks and a beautiful du'a of which she read in both Arabic and English.
All praise is due to Allah (SWT) for giving the Muslim students the resources and opportunity to come together and offer the Interfaith Iftar at OSU. Inshallah our guests left the program with not only a clearer understanding of Islam, but also with a better ability to determine the differences between stereotypes and true Islam. May Allah (SWT) bless us with the chance to provide other events such as this one so we can further extend Allah's (SWT) message to even more people. Jezakum Allah Kheir to all the brothers and sisters who helped in any way in making this event a success.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
March 1996 Our School, Our Future Here
by Dr. M. N. Tarazi, Board of Trustees, Islamic Society of Greater Columbus
The first sign on Islam in North America was the construction of a mosque to establish community prayer. We have 3 mosques in Columbus, alhamdulillah, plus a new one under construction on Sunbury Rd. by the Islamic Foundation of Central Ohio, and another on the drawing board for Wilcox Rd. in the near future, planned by the Islamic Society of Greater Columbus. Our city is big, and we need places for prayer properly placed around the city. This growth should not be viewed as competitive, but complimentary, providing for the multiple needs of our diverse community.
The second stage of Islamic settlement is the establishment of a full time school. a school can create an Islamic environment for our children, so that they can experience the difference and fully appreciate what our religion offers as a total way of life. An Islamic education prepares a child with knowledge of Quran, Sunnah, and Arabic, to be able to grow up with a close relationship to Allah nd to his or her family and community, following the guidance of Allah (SWT). But an Islamic education includes more than this. An Islamic education also prepares a child to be a participating citizen in the world, well mannered and respectful of others, knowledgeable in general culture in a wide sense of the world, as well as knowledgeable in technical and practical how-to information.
For too long we have suffered with the public school system, where our heritage and religion are ignored if not insulted. A full time Islamic school has a wider impact on the community than just the education of its enrolled students. It sets an example and a standard of professional education for all other educational efforts in the community, the Saturday and Sunday schools for Muslim children remaining in public schools, and for adult education, providing facilities, resources, and inspiration for teachers, parents, children, and adults throughout the community. An initial primary school, once started, will provide the base for a whole school system, form preschool through high school, hopefully with sites throughout our geographical area.
With this dream before us, the school committee has investigated many properties. Sometimes we have asked the community to visit a promising site, raising hopes, only to have them fall as we had to drop each project for one reason or another. This fall we assembled still another committee, and made a promise to open a school in September 1996, but we still lacked a site. There were few buildings that met the requirements of a school. The Robinwood School, proposed last fall, proved, upon closer examination, to be a major maintenance liability, with high utility costs and an asbestos problem. the question of location has always been a major concern, to be easily accessible to the greatest number of Muslim families.
A limited survey of our community, conducted by the school committees in December, found an overwhelming support for the school concept. Nearly everyone polled said they would volunteer time and effort to support the school. Though the school will of course be run by a paid professional staff, this volunteer energy can be channeled in many ways to increase the quality of the school. Professional architects and engineers of our community have already volunteered time and effort to evaluate buildings and sites, and will continue to recommend wise design and maintenance of facilities. Volunteers can help with car-pooling for field trips, gardening, library staffing and teacher assisting, but most importantly with fundraising. Quality education costs, and the community has a responsibility to help parents with this effort.
Another outcome of the survey was a repeat of a study done several years ago by an earlier school committee. Most Muslims live in the northwest corner of Franklin County. An analysis of membership lists for both the ISGC and IFCO revealed the same results. Easy close access of any school to people living in this area is essential to the success of the school.
Ramadan has truly been a blessed month for us this year, for we have been able to sign a contract for a building and land for our first full time school The building committee negotiated a contract on the site before announcing it, to avoid further discouragement for the community if negotiations didn't work. Negotiations worked; for the first time we were able to sign a contract to buy a building. The contract included an escape clause, to allow time for shurah, consultation, with community leaders, the Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, the Shurah Council, and the school committees. Others were consulted about the project and a general recommendation came for the purchase.
So now we are announcing to the whole community that we have a contract signed to pay $470,000 for the current Hilliard Public Library building, an 8,000 square foot building on 3.4 acres of land. immediate renovations to make it a small school will cost an approximate $50,000 more. The location is on Scioto-Darby Rd. 1.5 miles west of I-270 Hilliard exit, (10 minutes from the current site of Friday prayers). We hope to open a minimum of k-3rd grade by September in the building. We have room to grow at this location and can plan to build 2 additions of equal size to the present building on the land, as we have community commitment and student enrollment. We encourage everyone in the community to visit the library building on Cemetery Road. [driving directions omitted]
We have 6 months to pay for the building. On April 30, the first installment of $100,000 is due, and we take possession. Sixty days later we will need $200,000 for the next installment. Sixty days later we will, Inshallah, make the final installment of $170,000. On August 30, we will Inshallah, open with the first year of classes.
Now is the time to make sacrifices for our children. This dream is worth so much more than the pizza parties, computer games, and other luxury things people buy their children and themselves. This is our chance to ensure the continuation of our religion by the next generation, our children who will, Inshallah, be better educated than we are ourselves. We need donations from the whole community to support this chance for our children.
Please pledge as much as you can for the next 6 months to pay for this school. Pledge! We need an endowment fund to help pay tuition for the poor in our community. Pledge! We need the best professional Muslim teachers, the essential element to the success of our school. Pledge! We have been a very generous community in giving charity to any good organization from out of town or abroad that came and asked for our help: for Bosnia, Chechnya, Palestine, Kashmir, and many others. Now it is here at home, for our own children, for our own future, that we need to give our very best. Pledge! We need a school we can be proud of, to fulfill our obligation as Muslims to pass on what was passed down to us, in a continuous chain from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The first sign on Islam in North America was the construction of a mosque to establish community prayer. We have 3 mosques in Columbus, alhamdulillah, plus a new one under construction on Sunbury Rd. by the Islamic Foundation of Central Ohio, and another on the drawing board for Wilcox Rd. in the near future, planned by the Islamic Society of Greater Columbus. Our city is big, and we need places for prayer properly placed around the city. This growth should not be viewed as competitive, but complimentary, providing for the multiple needs of our diverse community.
The second stage of Islamic settlement is the establishment of a full time school. a school can create an Islamic environment for our children, so that they can experience the difference and fully appreciate what our religion offers as a total way of life. An Islamic education prepares a child with knowledge of Quran, Sunnah, and Arabic, to be able to grow up with a close relationship to Allah nd to his or her family and community, following the guidance of Allah (SWT). But an Islamic education includes more than this. An Islamic education also prepares a child to be a participating citizen in the world, well mannered and respectful of others, knowledgeable in general culture in a wide sense of the world, as well as knowledgeable in technical and practical how-to information.
For too long we have suffered with the public school system, where our heritage and religion are ignored if not insulted. A full time Islamic school has a wider impact on the community than just the education of its enrolled students. It sets an example and a standard of professional education for all other educational efforts in the community, the Saturday and Sunday schools for Muslim children remaining in public schools, and for adult education, providing facilities, resources, and inspiration for teachers, parents, children, and adults throughout the community. An initial primary school, once started, will provide the base for a whole school system, form preschool through high school, hopefully with sites throughout our geographical area.
With this dream before us, the school committee has investigated many properties. Sometimes we have asked the community to visit a promising site, raising hopes, only to have them fall as we had to drop each project for one reason or another. This fall we assembled still another committee, and made a promise to open a school in September 1996, but we still lacked a site. There were few buildings that met the requirements of a school. The Robinwood School, proposed last fall, proved, upon closer examination, to be a major maintenance liability, with high utility costs and an asbestos problem. the question of location has always been a major concern, to be easily accessible to the greatest number of Muslim families.
A limited survey of our community, conducted by the school committees in December, found an overwhelming support for the school concept. Nearly everyone polled said they would volunteer time and effort to support the school. Though the school will of course be run by a paid professional staff, this volunteer energy can be channeled in many ways to increase the quality of the school. Professional architects and engineers of our community have already volunteered time and effort to evaluate buildings and sites, and will continue to recommend wise design and maintenance of facilities. Volunteers can help with car-pooling for field trips, gardening, library staffing and teacher assisting, but most importantly with fundraising. Quality education costs, and the community has a responsibility to help parents with this effort.
Another outcome of the survey was a repeat of a study done several years ago by an earlier school committee. Most Muslims live in the northwest corner of Franklin County. An analysis of membership lists for both the ISGC and IFCO revealed the same results. Easy close access of any school to people living in this area is essential to the success of the school.
Ramadan has truly been a blessed month for us this year, for we have been able to sign a contract for a building and land for our first full time school The building committee negotiated a contract on the site before announcing it, to avoid further discouragement for the community if negotiations didn't work. Negotiations worked; for the first time we were able to sign a contract to buy a building. The contract included an escape clause, to allow time for shurah, consultation, with community leaders, the Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, the Shurah Council, and the school committees. Others were consulted about the project and a general recommendation came for the purchase.
So now we are announcing to the whole community that we have a contract signed to pay $470,000 for the current Hilliard Public Library building, an 8,000 square foot building on 3.4 acres of land. immediate renovations to make it a small school will cost an approximate $50,000 more. The location is on Scioto-Darby Rd. 1.5 miles west of I-270 Hilliard exit, (10 minutes from the current site of Friday prayers). We hope to open a minimum of k-3rd grade by September in the building. We have room to grow at this location and can plan to build 2 additions of equal size to the present building on the land, as we have community commitment and student enrollment. We encourage everyone in the community to visit the library building on Cemetery Road. [driving directions omitted]
We have 6 months to pay for the building. On April 30, the first installment of $100,000 is due, and we take possession. Sixty days later we will need $200,000 for the next installment. Sixty days later we will, Inshallah, make the final installment of $170,000. On August 30, we will Inshallah, open with the first year of classes.
Now is the time to make sacrifices for our children. This dream is worth so much more than the pizza parties, computer games, and other luxury things people buy their children and themselves. This is our chance to ensure the continuation of our religion by the next generation, our children who will, Inshallah, be better educated than we are ourselves. We need donations from the whole community to support this chance for our children.
Please pledge as much as you can for the next 6 months to pay for this school. Pledge! We need an endowment fund to help pay tuition for the poor in our community. Pledge! We need the best professional Muslim teachers, the essential element to the success of our school. Pledge! We have been a very generous community in giving charity to any good organization from out of town or abroad that came and asked for our help: for Bosnia, Chechnya, Palestine, Kashmir, and many others. Now it is here at home, for our own children, for our own future, that we need to give our very best. Pledge! We need a school we can be proud of, to fulfill our obligation as Muslims to pass on what was passed down to us, in a continuous chain from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Feb 1996 Ramadan, Eid and the Media
by Brian Clouse
Ramadan Mubarak everyone! Some efforts were made with the media this year; progress was achieved and plans for the future set. Some new approaches were tested with television stations and some important contacts were made. Sadly, however, the results were not as fruitful as might be hoped, but the lessons learned are valuable.
First, for the entire week prior to the beginning of Ramadan, different media representatives were contacted. The Columbus Dispatch's Religion Editor, Sylvia Brooks, showed her usual interest in covering Ramadan. On Saturday January 20th, a very nice article appeared in the Dispatch explaining Islam and the celebration of Ramadan.
The news, weather, and/or community affairs departments of five local television stations were contacted in order to stimulate interest in Ramadan from a variety of perspectives. The weather departments were the least willing to participate, explaining that new moons, religious holidays, and sunset times are not part of their coverage. The news desks showed a little more enthusiasm, at least initially. Channels 4, 6, and 10 promised to announce the beginning of Ramadan during their 11:00 broadcasts, but we were not able to notify them early enough on the evening of January 20th that the new crescent moon had not been sighted. Some news editors expressed an interest in doing additional stories about Ramadan, but nothing solid has resulted as of yet.
This was the first time the community affairs departments were contacted, and it appears that they can be helpful in getting better coverage of Islam on local television news programs. Ron Thielman of WSYX Channel 6 was by far the most interested, and suggested several ways in which he could help. He promised to post the press releases sent to him on two major sources of information provided by Channel 6: A World Wide Web Home Page and a program in which the station faxes news reports to over 2,000 local businesses and organizations. He also promised to download the Public Service Announcements (PSA0 produced and distributed by the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) for review and possible airing during periods of low commercial sponsorship. Channel 4's Leslie Zuk also made efforts to get the PSAs for the same purposes. Channel 10 said they would try if their satellite dishes were available at the time. as of yet, I have not seen the PSAs at all.
The Ohio State Lantern and WOSU AM-FM-TV, to my knowledge, included no coverage of Ramadan. Perhaps, the Muslim Student Association should make its presence better known to the University, but this has been done before. the manager of creative services at Channel 4, Jana Buckey, made the sharpest statement about any coverage of Ramadan, or Islamic issues of local interest: The Islamic population in Columbus is just too small to be of any significance. I explained the local and national demographics of the Muslim population compared to other religious groups to her assistant, but she did not think this would convince her boss.
As frustrating as this has been, there are some important lessons to take away from this. first, we have to remember that progress is being made, however slow it may be. Over time, with good contacts and improved methods, we will get more recognition in the local media. But Ms. Budkey's opinion is not unique, and it's no mystery why.
Ask yourself this question: What has the Islamic community in central Ohio done that is of any benefit to this society? I do not mean to minimize the efforts of any Muslim individuals or groups that have been made. What I am suggesting, however, is that perhaps we should not sit around waiting for the media to improve our image for us, while we try to pressure them into doing better. In the end that will not work, and the intentions are misplaced. If Muslims are truly the best of a community for the good of that community, then it's due time for that to show. Homelessness, illiteracy, hunger, drugs, alcohol, prostitution, gambling, and crime exist throughout this city. There certainly is no lack of opportunity for us, that is for sure. when the Muslim presence in Columbus, Ohio has a positive impact, rather than one of disinterest or self interest, then the media will not be able to ignore us. But is won't matter then, because the rewards from Allah will far outweigh anything the media can say or do.
Ramadan Mubarak everyone! Some efforts were made with the media this year; progress was achieved and plans for the future set. Some new approaches were tested with television stations and some important contacts were made. Sadly, however, the results were not as fruitful as might be hoped, but the lessons learned are valuable.
First, for the entire week prior to the beginning of Ramadan, different media representatives were contacted. The Columbus Dispatch's Religion Editor, Sylvia Brooks, showed her usual interest in covering Ramadan. On Saturday January 20th, a very nice article appeared in the Dispatch explaining Islam and the celebration of Ramadan.
The news, weather, and/or community affairs departments of five local television stations were contacted in order to stimulate interest in Ramadan from a variety of perspectives. The weather departments were the least willing to participate, explaining that new moons, religious holidays, and sunset times are not part of their coverage. The news desks showed a little more enthusiasm, at least initially. Channels 4, 6, and 10 promised to announce the beginning of Ramadan during their 11:00 broadcasts, but we were not able to notify them early enough on the evening of January 20th that the new crescent moon had not been sighted. Some news editors expressed an interest in doing additional stories about Ramadan, but nothing solid has resulted as of yet.
This was the first time the community affairs departments were contacted, and it appears that they can be helpful in getting better coverage of Islam on local television news programs. Ron Thielman of WSYX Channel 6 was by far the most interested, and suggested several ways in which he could help. He promised to post the press releases sent to him on two major sources of information provided by Channel 6: A World Wide Web Home Page and a program in which the station faxes news reports to over 2,000 local businesses and organizations. He also promised to download the Public Service Announcements (PSA0 produced and distributed by the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) for review and possible airing during periods of low commercial sponsorship. Channel 4's Leslie Zuk also made efforts to get the PSAs for the same purposes. Channel 10 said they would try if their satellite dishes were available at the time. as of yet, I have not seen the PSAs at all.
The Ohio State Lantern and WOSU AM-FM-TV, to my knowledge, included no coverage of Ramadan. Perhaps, the Muslim Student Association should make its presence better known to the University, but this has been done before. the manager of creative services at Channel 4, Jana Buckey, made the sharpest statement about any coverage of Ramadan, or Islamic issues of local interest: The Islamic population in Columbus is just too small to be of any significance. I explained the local and national demographics of the Muslim population compared to other religious groups to her assistant, but she did not think this would convince her boss.
As frustrating as this has been, there are some important lessons to take away from this. first, we have to remember that progress is being made, however slow it may be. Over time, with good contacts and improved methods, we will get more recognition in the local media. But Ms. Budkey's opinion is not unique, and it's no mystery why.
Ask yourself this question: What has the Islamic community in central Ohio done that is of any benefit to this society? I do not mean to minimize the efforts of any Muslim individuals or groups that have been made. What I am suggesting, however, is that perhaps we should not sit around waiting for the media to improve our image for us, while we try to pressure them into doing better. In the end that will not work, and the intentions are misplaced. If Muslims are truly the best of a community for the good of that community, then it's due time for that to show. Homelessness, illiteracy, hunger, drugs, alcohol, prostitution, gambling, and crime exist throughout this city. There certainly is no lack of opportunity for us, that is for sure. when the Muslim presence in Columbus, Ohio has a positive impact, rather than one of disinterest or self interest, then the media will not be able to ignore us. But is won't matter then, because the rewards from Allah will far outweigh anything the media can say or do.
Feb 1996 News Fly Around
MATT
February 22 - Columbus -- Muslim employees of AT&T, Columbus, have formed an official group at the company called MATT (Muslims at AT&T). the objectives of this group are "to support and provide resources for the Muslim associates at the Columbus Works" and to "facilitate a better understanding of Islamic ideology and culture at the Columbus Works" according to their by-laws. Among their activities is public relations and increasing awareness. This is done by participating in activities in the workplace and by inviting guest speakers to address issues that face Muslim employees in the workplace and address stereotyping of Muslims in general.
The group also has some social activities for occasions such as a collective family iftar in Ramadan. The group meets regularly to discuss 1. issues that relate to Muslims in the workplace, and 2. study teachings from Quran and Sunnah. the group also has a room for congregational prayer where Dhuhr and Asr prayers are performed. AT&T at Columbus has about 20 Muslim employees. Similar groups within AT&T exist in Illinois and New Jersey.
February 22 - Columbus -- Muslim employees of AT&T, Columbus, have formed an official group at the company called MATT (Muslims at AT&T). the objectives of this group are "to support and provide resources for the Muslim associates at the Columbus Works" and to "facilitate a better understanding of Islamic ideology and culture at the Columbus Works" according to their by-laws. Among their activities is public relations and increasing awareness. This is done by participating in activities in the workplace and by inviting guest speakers to address issues that face Muslim employees in the workplace and address stereotyping of Muslims in general.
The group also has some social activities for occasions such as a collective family iftar in Ramadan. The group meets regularly to discuss 1. issues that relate to Muslims in the workplace, and 2. study teachings from Quran and Sunnah. the group also has a room for congregational prayer where Dhuhr and Asr prayers are performed. AT&T at Columbus has about 20 Muslim employees. Similar groups within AT&T exist in Illinois and New Jersey.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Jan. 1996 External Experts For school Projects
by Norma Tarazi
Three workshops took place this month for the school, one in Dayton with Sr. Susan Douglas, and two hosted with experts from out of town, Dr. Shaker Sayed, education director at ISNA, and Dr. Abdullah Idris, principal of the Islamic school of Toronto, one of the most successful in North America. The Dayton workshop specifically addressed ways to integrate Islam and Islamic history into social studies programs. Two copies of the Douglas social studies curriculum supplements are now available in our community. 'Dr. Shaker came at the end of November specifically to help the teachers of our Islamic weekend schools, but his address was also open to those working on the full time school project. The two day workshop addressed three topics, the qualities of a good Muslim teacher, teaching approaches for Islamic studies, and teaching approaches for Arabic. Much of the material on teacher qualities and teaching approaches was very interesting for Muslim parents as well as professional teachers.
In an extra evening meeting, Dr. Shaker discussed practical considerations for starting a full-time Islamic school. Of basic concern is the financial investment. As someone who has been a principal himself and presently works for ISNA primarily as a resource guide to the 170 Islamic schools now in North America, Dr. Shaker has a wealth of experience. Islamic schools nationwide are charging between $2000 and $3500 per year tuition for each student. The actual cost of the student is always more than that. The difference has to be made up in contributions from the community at large. However, we should keep expenses under tight control. It is unrealistic to expect contributions to count for more than 15% of expenses.
Communities who invest first in a school building acquire overhead that must be paid whether or not there are students. A large building requires the same amount to heat and light for 4 students as 120. For this reason, schools which are financially viable have usually started in shared facilities with a mosque or in temporary quarters that are rather makeshift. As student enrollment increases, the school moves out into more professional quarters. If a large building is acquired, efforts need to be made to make multipurpose use of the building for other activities, such as evening banquet facilities for parties, or daycare facilities in one part of the building, to help share overhead costs.
Another important issue discussed at this meeting was the ability to create a credible bilingual school. The best results so far seen by Dr. Shaker, for Arabic ability in a child graduating from and Islamic school without other access to Arabic, is 4th grade level. However, he said continual improvements of curriculum are being made and he expects continued improvement in this area in the next few years. The dreams of the parents and their commitment is the most important requirement for a successful Islamic school.
Dr. Abdullah Idris also discussed the topic of starting an Islamic school. His school in Toronto started in 1982 with 13 children from 7 committed families. At the time, the community referred to them as "those crazy people" he admitted with pride. He stressed the importance of having a year to plan curriculum before opening the next grade, to make sure it is successful. Don't bite off more than you can chew, in other words. Now that school is full with 350 students through 8th grade. There are now a total of 4 schools in the project, all operating at full enrollment and financially viable, and they have a waiting list of 5000. Student-teacher ratio is 30/1 overall, with smaller ratios for younger pupils. A high school for girls was started for girls in 7th through 12th after the 8th grade was opened. Girls who graduated from this school have been very successful in college. The school project is now negotiating to purchase a large high school facility.
After visiting the proposed sites under study by our community, Dr. Abdullah liked both of the Whitehall sites. he one currently in church use is not very attractive outside, he commented, but he toured the inside and felt it to be full of potential. He liked the outside appearance of the Robinwood site, only worrying about the proximity to broad St., with the possibility of security problems. He also saw the Sunbury site planned for the mosque weekend school complex. He expressed concern about the power plant nearby and the small area of the site if anyone wanted to make a full-time school use of that future complex. Though he was not shown the potential northwest land, discussion arose about it. Custom built facilities are always more appreciated by communities if the waiting time and cost are not too substantially greater than buying an old building on the market.
Our two guests have also helped in preparing a community-wide demographic survey which was started in the last weeks of December. With such dedicated experts to assist us, we will have only ourselves to blame if we do not produce a high quality full-time Islamic school in Columbus.
Three workshops took place this month for the school, one in Dayton with Sr. Susan Douglas, and two hosted with experts from out of town, Dr. Shaker Sayed, education director at ISNA, and Dr. Abdullah Idris, principal of the Islamic school of Toronto, one of the most successful in North America. The Dayton workshop specifically addressed ways to integrate Islam and Islamic history into social studies programs. Two copies of the Douglas social studies curriculum supplements are now available in our community. 'Dr. Shaker came at the end of November specifically to help the teachers of our Islamic weekend schools, but his address was also open to those working on the full time school project. The two day workshop addressed three topics, the qualities of a good Muslim teacher, teaching approaches for Islamic studies, and teaching approaches for Arabic. Much of the material on teacher qualities and teaching approaches was very interesting for Muslim parents as well as professional teachers.
In an extra evening meeting, Dr. Shaker discussed practical considerations for starting a full-time Islamic school. Of basic concern is the financial investment. As someone who has been a principal himself and presently works for ISNA primarily as a resource guide to the 170 Islamic schools now in North America, Dr. Shaker has a wealth of experience. Islamic schools nationwide are charging between $2000 and $3500 per year tuition for each student. The actual cost of the student is always more than that. The difference has to be made up in contributions from the community at large. However, we should keep expenses under tight control. It is unrealistic to expect contributions to count for more than 15% of expenses.
Communities who invest first in a school building acquire overhead that must be paid whether or not there are students. A large building requires the same amount to heat and light for 4 students as 120. For this reason, schools which are financially viable have usually started in shared facilities with a mosque or in temporary quarters that are rather makeshift. As student enrollment increases, the school moves out into more professional quarters. If a large building is acquired, efforts need to be made to make multipurpose use of the building for other activities, such as evening banquet facilities for parties, or daycare facilities in one part of the building, to help share overhead costs.
Another important issue discussed at this meeting was the ability to create a credible bilingual school. The best results so far seen by Dr. Shaker, for Arabic ability in a child graduating from and Islamic school without other access to Arabic, is 4th grade level. However, he said continual improvements of curriculum are being made and he expects continued improvement in this area in the next few years. The dreams of the parents and their commitment is the most important requirement for a successful Islamic school.
Dr. Abdullah Idris also discussed the topic of starting an Islamic school. His school in Toronto started in 1982 with 13 children from 7 committed families. At the time, the community referred to them as "those crazy people" he admitted with pride. He stressed the importance of having a year to plan curriculum before opening the next grade, to make sure it is successful. Don't bite off more than you can chew, in other words. Now that school is full with 350 students through 8th grade. There are now a total of 4 schools in the project, all operating at full enrollment and financially viable, and they have a waiting list of 5000. Student-teacher ratio is 30/1 overall, with smaller ratios for younger pupils. A high school for girls was started for girls in 7th through 12th after the 8th grade was opened. Girls who graduated from this school have been very successful in college. The school project is now negotiating to purchase a large high school facility.
After visiting the proposed sites under study by our community, Dr. Abdullah liked both of the Whitehall sites. he one currently in church use is not very attractive outside, he commented, but he toured the inside and felt it to be full of potential. He liked the outside appearance of the Robinwood site, only worrying about the proximity to broad St., with the possibility of security problems. He also saw the Sunbury site planned for the mosque weekend school complex. He expressed concern about the power plant nearby and the small area of the site if anyone wanted to make a full-time school use of that future complex. Though he was not shown the potential northwest land, discussion arose about it. Custom built facilities are always more appreciated by communities if the waiting time and cost are not too substantially greater than buying an old building on the market.
Our two guests have also helped in preparing a community-wide demographic survey which was started in the last weeks of December. With such dedicated experts to assist us, we will have only ourselves to blame if we do not produce a high quality full-time Islamic school in Columbus.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Dec 1995 Islamic School in Sight for ISGC as Committees Form and Set Goals
by Sandra Gray
Members of the ISGC have been working hard and are determined that a full-time Islamic school will be in operation by next September. The School Formation Committee has met several times with members of both the ISGC and a few members from IFCO. the Formation Committee has assigned four subcommittees, each designed for a specific purpose. The subcommittees are Administrative, Curriculum, Engineering, and Finance. Each of the subgroups have also met several times and are will on the way towards progress.
At the last Formation Committee meeting of November 14, such issues as the acquisition of the school in Whitehall, which is currently up for sale, were discussed. Most members present seem to feel that purchasing an already built school would be more feasible and efficient in terms of finance, zoning, and safety reasons. An Open House for the Whitehall school was held on November 11, where all members of the community were invited to view the school. It was an impressive building, according to many reports, with all the facilities already in place for a school, as well as for a multipurpose centr for the ISGC. Br. Khalid Fareg stressed the importance of community members' participation in and support for this project, or any other school project which may arise. The Formation Committee did not make a final decision for any solid offer on the school, and it is still being discussed. In the November 14th meeting, each of the four subcommittees presented a report of their progress to the entire Formation Committee for open discussion.
The Administrative Committee discussed their pending survey to be sent to all community members which is needed to help in the decision-making process. For example, it was discussed that it could not yet be determined how advanced the school would be (kindergarten, elementary, middle or high school or a combination) without an actual survey of the community's needs and the number of students parents might register. A survey is imperative in this decision-making process and ensures community participation. The Administrative committee also raised the issue of types of private schools which might be plausible, and some members attended a workshop at the Ohio State Department of Education to get information which may be helpful to the ISGC.
The Curriculum Committee discussed their objective of finding and evaluating the best available curricula form the State, private, and successful Islamic schools. Some successful Islamic schools such as the ISNA Islamic School in Ontario and the Madrasatul "Ilm in Indianapolis have already expressed their support and willingness to help in curriculum development. Members stressed the importance of a strong Islamic and bi-lingual orientation in the ISGC school project.
The Finance Committee discussed various means of income for the school, since it would no doubt be an expensive project. Many options were discussed to raise funds, such as fundraisers, tuition as well as tuition aid, donations, and even Islamic-based investments. The survey, to be administered soon, would also in this case be beneficial, since it might help determine how well the community will be able to support the school.
The Engineering Committee has been very busy with details in looking for possible locations for the school, as well as investigating seriously the Whitehall school. It was determined through the advice of this committee that a permanent building would be superior, since classroom bungalows had been discussed. Other locations are also currently being investigated.
Now that it is certain that a full-time Islamic private school will be built, this is the time to encourage members of this community to participate at all levels to ensure the best possible success for our children's' education. the choice is ours: either we get involved and form a superior school with an Islamic-based education, or we leave our children to become absorbed by the mediocre and kufr-based public schools.
Members of the ISGC have been working hard and are determined that a full-time Islamic school will be in operation by next September. The School Formation Committee has met several times with members of both the ISGC and a few members from IFCO. the Formation Committee has assigned four subcommittees, each designed for a specific purpose. The subcommittees are Administrative, Curriculum, Engineering, and Finance. Each of the subgroups have also met several times and are will on the way towards progress.
At the last Formation Committee meeting of November 14, such issues as the acquisition of the school in Whitehall, which is currently up for sale, were discussed. Most members present seem to feel that purchasing an already built school would be more feasible and efficient in terms of finance, zoning, and safety reasons. An Open House for the Whitehall school was held on November 11, where all members of the community were invited to view the school. It was an impressive building, according to many reports, with all the facilities already in place for a school, as well as for a multipurpose centr for the ISGC. Br. Khalid Fareg stressed the importance of community members' participation in and support for this project, or any other school project which may arise. The Formation Committee did not make a final decision for any solid offer on the school, and it is still being discussed. In the November 14th meeting, each of the four subcommittees presented a report of their progress to the entire Formation Committee for open discussion.
The Administrative Committee discussed their pending survey to be sent to all community members which is needed to help in the decision-making process. For example, it was discussed that it could not yet be determined how advanced the school would be (kindergarten, elementary, middle or high school or a combination) without an actual survey of the community's needs and the number of students parents might register. A survey is imperative in this decision-making process and ensures community participation. The Administrative committee also raised the issue of types of private schools which might be plausible, and some members attended a workshop at the Ohio State Department of Education to get information which may be helpful to the ISGC.
The Curriculum Committee discussed their objective of finding and evaluating the best available curricula form the State, private, and successful Islamic schools. Some successful Islamic schools such as the ISNA Islamic School in Ontario and the Madrasatul "Ilm in Indianapolis have already expressed their support and willingness to help in curriculum development. Members stressed the importance of a strong Islamic and bi-lingual orientation in the ISGC school project.
The Finance Committee discussed various means of income for the school, since it would no doubt be an expensive project. Many options were discussed to raise funds, such as fundraisers, tuition as well as tuition aid, donations, and even Islamic-based investments. The survey, to be administered soon, would also in this case be beneficial, since it might help determine how well the community will be able to support the school.
The Engineering Committee has been very busy with details in looking for possible locations for the school, as well as investigating seriously the Whitehall school. It was determined through the advice of this committee that a permanent building would be superior, since classroom bungalows had been discussed. Other locations are also currently being investigated.
Now that it is certain that a full-time Islamic private school will be built, this is the time to encourage members of this community to participate at all levels to ensure the best possible success for our children's' education. the choice is ours: either we get involved and form a superior school with an Islamic-based education, or we leave our children to become absorbed by the mediocre and kufr-based public schools.
Dec 1995 Columbus Holds International Festival
by Mufakharul Islam
The International Festival in Columbus is an annual festival of the international community living in Central Ohio. It is held on the first weekend of November of each year. The organizer of this event is the United Nations chapter of Columbus, Ohio. even though it is held in Columbus, different ethnic people living all over the U.S. attended this event to represent their ethnic and cultural customs. It is interesting to know about the different cultures and the different ethnic groups in this festival. Every year an estimated 40 to 50 thousand visitors attend the festival. This year it was help on November 4th and 5th. There were at least 200 booths where foods, clothes, and different traditional items were for sale.
The Islamic Foundation of central Ohio (IFCO) had a booth in this festival where foods and clothing form different Muslim countries such as Egypt, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh were sold. Sisters and children from IFCO helped in cooking and selling food. At one end of the booth an "invitation" table was set up to attract visitors. Some brothers from IFCO were there to explain Islamic traditions and principles to them. There were a lot of pamphlets on Islam and the sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH). There were some Islamic videos displayed for the children, to help them learn about Islam. This turned out to be a key attraction for both parents and children and an opportunity for them to inquire about Islam. IFCO's booth was the only booth with an Islamic agenda. the festival environment may not be suited for Muslim women gatherings but it is good for disseminating ideas about Islam to the attendees.
Due to the fact that this festival attracts a very large crowd, the ISGC and IFCO should take more initiatives to disseminate information about Islam in this festival.
The International Festival in Columbus is an annual festival of the international community living in Central Ohio. It is held on the first weekend of November of each year. The organizer of this event is the United Nations chapter of Columbus, Ohio. even though it is held in Columbus, different ethnic people living all over the U.S. attended this event to represent their ethnic and cultural customs. It is interesting to know about the different cultures and the different ethnic groups in this festival. Every year an estimated 40 to 50 thousand visitors attend the festival. This year it was help on November 4th and 5th. There were at least 200 booths where foods, clothes, and different traditional items were for sale.
The Islamic Foundation of central Ohio (IFCO) had a booth in this festival where foods and clothing form different Muslim countries such as Egypt, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh were sold. Sisters and children from IFCO helped in cooking and selling food. At one end of the booth an "invitation" table was set up to attract visitors. Some brothers from IFCO were there to explain Islamic traditions and principles to them. There were a lot of pamphlets on Islam and the sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH). There were some Islamic videos displayed for the children, to help them learn about Islam. This turned out to be a key attraction for both parents and children and an opportunity for them to inquire about Islam. IFCO's booth was the only booth with an Islamic agenda. the festival environment may not be suited for Muslim women gatherings but it is good for disseminating ideas about Islam to the attendees.
Due to the fact that this festival attracts a very large crowd, the ISGC and IFCO should take more initiatives to disseminate information about Islam in this festival.
Nov 1995 Convention Recall ... Why Can't Muslims Organize
IQRA! Survey of the Post-Convention Syndrome
by Ayman Ismail
Almost every independent opinion received, regarding the ISNA convention, was highly positive and admiring. This was expected, for even the blind could tell that planning, organization, thought, and dedication, superseded by pure intention, would bear fruit. However, what puzzles many came after the convention: "how come a community[Columbus] that good cannot come together for a single successful project?"
"I think, wa Allahu 'alam, that the community in Columbus is ready to team up for local projects," says Rached Zantout. "It is only politics that prevent them from doing so, as well as the lack of a charismatic and uniting leadership on each and every side."
The issue of leadership was also seconded by Hazem Gheith. "Sometimes we put unqualified persons who diverge instead of teaming people up."
"For example," cites one commentator, "two projects that the community in Columbus could have united upon, were the cemetery and the new Islamic Center/Masjid/Ful time school. Both the ISGC and IFCO are working one variations of those two projects. IFCO has long had land but problems have ensued in building and maintenance. They also have cemetery land already zoned and ready to be used. Omar Mosque has the manpower, willingness, and money to start projects. Yet breakdowns in communications and methods obstructed the goals for both ISCG and IFCO, despite their being the same.
But didn't the ISNA convention also have problems? In ISNA's case, it was a very clear project with very clear objectives. "The credit goes all to ISNA if we did a good job so there was less incentive for people who play politics to be involved. It does not pay much back in terms of short term political gains in the community," says Rached. The advantage of depoliticizing the work seems twofold. More sincere work, and far fewer conflicts. Given a project that size, it would have seemed logical to have diverse opinins spoil the work! Right?
Not necessarily. The ISNA convention was such a huge project that everybody who wanted to work could do so without being bothered or bothering the other parts of the community which did not think like them. "For example," says a commentator, "One of the objections from IFCO people (some of them) to joint activities with ISGC is that we "separate men and women". Well, in the ISNA convention, if you are against that separation you could have worked with some of the committees that did not care about separation, and if you were with that separation you could have worked in other committees. There was room for everyone.
Another reason appears to be in what social scientists call "community participation". ISNA Convention steering committees turned to the grass roots. This should not take place only at the implementation phase, but right from the start. "Not involving as many people as you can when preparing for a project or event will alienate the project's prime support," says Hazem Gheith.
Is there hope? There is a lot that can be done to bring that convention spirit back. The leaders of ISGC, IGCO, and Masjid Al-Islam should get together and start planning for common projects with the same spirit of the ISNA convention which would keep that unity feeling or raise it up from time to time. Joint lectures, not merely picnics, preparing for the next ISNA convention, a Columbus Islamic Day, a workshop for Muslims about some issues facing them in Columbus, River Clean Up Day by us Muslims, adopting part s of highways that pass through Columbus, etc... And of course, there is the opportunity in the joint full-time Islamic school project.
During the convention the unity of the community became very clear. "None of those who worked expected a reward and none were received," says Altaf Wani. "The satisfaction from within for a job well was enough." Now this community has a new opportunity. Let's wait and see.
The causes of community disagreements seem clear: politicizing of work and lack of leadership. The solution is equally clear: we must learn to work with the spirit of teamwork.
by Ayman Ismail
Almost every independent opinion received, regarding the ISNA convention, was highly positive and admiring. This was expected, for even the blind could tell that planning, organization, thought, and dedication, superseded by pure intention, would bear fruit. However, what puzzles many came after the convention: "how come a community[Columbus] that good cannot come together for a single successful project?"
"I think, wa Allahu 'alam, that the community in Columbus is ready to team up for local projects," says Rached Zantout. "It is only politics that prevent them from doing so, as well as the lack of a charismatic and uniting leadership on each and every side."
The issue of leadership was also seconded by Hazem Gheith. "Sometimes we put unqualified persons who diverge instead of teaming people up."
"For example," cites one commentator, "two projects that the community in Columbus could have united upon, were the cemetery and the new Islamic Center/Masjid/Ful time school. Both the ISGC and IFCO are working one variations of those two projects. IFCO has long had land but problems have ensued in building and maintenance. They also have cemetery land already zoned and ready to be used. Omar Mosque has the manpower, willingness, and money to start projects. Yet breakdowns in communications and methods obstructed the goals for both ISCG and IFCO, despite their being the same.
But didn't the ISNA convention also have problems? In ISNA's case, it was a very clear project with very clear objectives. "The credit goes all to ISNA if we did a good job so there was less incentive for people who play politics to be involved. It does not pay much back in terms of short term political gains in the community," says Rached. The advantage of depoliticizing the work seems twofold. More sincere work, and far fewer conflicts. Given a project that size, it would have seemed logical to have diverse opinins spoil the work! Right?
Not necessarily. The ISNA convention was such a huge project that everybody who wanted to work could do so without being bothered or bothering the other parts of the community which did not think like them. "For example," says a commentator, "One of the objections from IFCO people (some of them) to joint activities with ISGC is that we "separate men and women". Well, in the ISNA convention, if you are against that separation you could have worked with some of the committees that did not care about separation, and if you were with that separation you could have worked in other committees. There was room for everyone.
Another reason appears to be in what social scientists call "community participation". ISNA Convention steering committees turned to the grass roots. This should not take place only at the implementation phase, but right from the start. "Not involving as many people as you can when preparing for a project or event will alienate the project's prime support," says Hazem Gheith.
Is there hope? There is a lot that can be done to bring that convention spirit back. The leaders of ISGC, IGCO, and Masjid Al-Islam should get together and start planning for common projects with the same spirit of the ISNA convention which would keep that unity feeling or raise it up from time to time. Joint lectures, not merely picnics, preparing for the next ISNA convention, a Columbus Islamic Day, a workshop for Muslims about some issues facing them in Columbus, River Clean Up Day by us Muslims, adopting part s of highways that pass through Columbus, etc... And of course, there is the opportunity in the joint full-time Islamic school project.
During the convention the unity of the community became very clear. "None of those who worked expected a reward and none were received," says Altaf Wani. "The satisfaction from within for a job well was enough." Now this community has a new opportunity. Let's wait and see.
The causes of community disagreements seem clear: politicizing of work and lack of leadership. The solution is equally clear: we must learn to work with the spirit of teamwork.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Nov 1995 Mosque, School, Cemetery: Light at the End of the Tunnel?
by IQRA! staff
The ISGC general assembly meeting should have been better attended, because important projects were presented which need community input. The simplest is the cemetery project. at present, the community has an arrangement with a public cemetery north of 270 on route 23, but the commercial expense is considerable. For the long term community benefit, plans have been made for owning our own cemetery, and, of great importance, people have already donated a substantial amount of money to a special fund for it. At present, an offer has been made on 2 acres in Northwest Columbus area, contingent upon obtaining zoning and a positive engineering report. A map of the area was passed around at the meeting. The purchase price is $50,000 for the acreage.
Two more project possibilities, for mosque and school, were unveiled at the meeting. the larger, and further off, is the possible purchase of about 12 acres, again in the Northwest area, for a mosque, full time school, and daycare center. The total project, land purchase and building construction, is projected at about two million dollars. Zoning problems, which are expected to be resolved soon, prevent action from being taken yet. If the community embraces this project, construction could probably start in the winter of 1996.
Recently, another school project had become possible. A 25 year old school is up for sale in Whitehall. This former elementary school, Robinwood, is located across from Town and Country Mall at East broad and Robinwood. It has a cafeteria, kitchen, gymnasium with stage, and a large area of flexible classroom space. If purchased, the community could start a full time school in the building by next fall. This facility could become a permanent location for our school, or used temporarily and sold later, when and if the Northwest project becomes a reality. All members of the community are urged to attend an open house of this facility on November 11th at 2 pm and express their views on the proposal.
Regardless of whether we have a special building or not, a group of committed volunteers has started meetings to plan the opening of "The Columbus Islamic Academy" by next fall. Four committees have been formed, for curriculum, administration, finances, and technical considerations. All in our community agree generally on the concept of a full time private school for our children, but up to now there has been too much procrastination. Parents are struggling with the unwholesome environments in public schools and praying that their children come out safely. The school can start temporarily at the mosque, or in rented quarters of some sort. We have qualified people in our community to staff the school. We have access to numerous curriculum sources. Our community is generally blessed with financial resources. The general feeling is that a start must be made, and Allah will provide for the growth and success, through the commitment of those who struggle for His Sake alone.
The ISGC general assembly meeting should have been better attended, because important projects were presented which need community input. The simplest is the cemetery project. at present, the community has an arrangement with a public cemetery north of 270 on route 23, but the commercial expense is considerable. For the long term community benefit, plans have been made for owning our own cemetery, and, of great importance, people have already donated a substantial amount of money to a special fund for it. At present, an offer has been made on 2 acres in Northwest Columbus area, contingent upon obtaining zoning and a positive engineering report. A map of the area was passed around at the meeting. The purchase price is $50,000 for the acreage.
Two more project possibilities, for mosque and school, were unveiled at the meeting. the larger, and further off, is the possible purchase of about 12 acres, again in the Northwest area, for a mosque, full time school, and daycare center. The total project, land purchase and building construction, is projected at about two million dollars. Zoning problems, which are expected to be resolved soon, prevent action from being taken yet. If the community embraces this project, construction could probably start in the winter of 1996.
Recently, another school project had become possible. A 25 year old school is up for sale in Whitehall. This former elementary school, Robinwood, is located across from Town and Country Mall at East broad and Robinwood. It has a cafeteria, kitchen, gymnasium with stage, and a large area of flexible classroom space. If purchased, the community could start a full time school in the building by next fall. This facility could become a permanent location for our school, or used temporarily and sold later, when and if the Northwest project becomes a reality. All members of the community are urged to attend an open house of this facility on November 11th at 2 pm and express their views on the proposal.
Regardless of whether we have a special building or not, a group of committed volunteers has started meetings to plan the opening of "The Columbus Islamic Academy" by next fall. Four committees have been formed, for curriculum, administration, finances, and technical considerations. All in our community agree generally on the concept of a full time private school for our children, but up to now there has been too much procrastination. Parents are struggling with the unwholesome environments in public schools and praying that their children come out safely. The school can start temporarily at the mosque, or in rented quarters of some sort. We have qualified people in our community to staff the school. We have access to numerous curriculum sources. Our community is generally blessed with financial resources. The general feeling is that a start must be made, and Allah will provide for the growth and success, through the commitment of those who struggle for His Sake alone.
Sept. 1995 Muslim Health Fair During the ISNA Convention
by Tahseen Naiyer
The Muslim community of Columbus, Ohio has grown rapidly during the last ten years. Many great events have taken place in the history of our community. The purchase of the Omar Ibn-el-Khattab mosque, and the formation of ISGC are just a few of those landmarks. And the plans of the Islamic Center to build an Islamic School and the mosque at Sunbury point to a bright future. The 32nd ISNA convention, Inshallah, will also be a landmark in the history of the Muslim community of Columbus, Ohio. We are honored, proud and thankful to Allah (SWT) who has provided us with this unique opportunity to be a part of ISNA convention.
Dr. Mohamed Shareef is a well-known brother in our community. Allah (SWT) has blessed him with many talents. For the first time and with the approval of ISNA, Dr. Shareef and his colleagues will be providing first aid and a Muslim health fair during the convention. It will be an opportunity to meet with experienced physicians, cardiologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, and expert medical technicians, all in one place. We will not have to run from one doctor to another, or from one lab to the next. We are thankful to our medical community, to the physicians, nurses, and health care providers, who are devoting their time and efforts in providing this important service. The cardiac stress testing is going to be an unusual part of this fair. It is done as part of the VIP screening health check-up in the physician's office or hospitals. Dr. Nayyer Shareef will also be providing mammography for a very small fee to cover the cost of the lab work.
Another important feature of this health fair will be a Red Cross blood Donation Drive. Muslims are the torch bearers of humankind. It is our obligation to show to the world that we not only care about our own community, but that we also care for the whole of the human race. the red Cross Blood Donation Drive and the Cancer screenings, provided by the Arthur James Cancer Institute's mobile mammography unit, will allow the Muslim community to show on a national level its commitment to participate in a positive way in the life and health care of this nation.
Some of the other important features of this health fair will be free basic check-ups, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, stress testing (heart check-up), breathing tests, and bone marrow registry.
Due to the blessing of Allah (SWT) mankind is finding cures for cancer. Once considered so deadly, we are now able to successfully combat it with early detection. Breast cancer among women and prostate cancer are common occurrences these days. Unfortunately, most of our brothers and sisters do not have proper access to medical facilities. The Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) has said that a strong Muslim is better than a weak Muslim but both are good. He had also said that for every disease, Allah (SWT) has given a cure. Our body and life are amana form Allah (SWT), and He will ask us how well we cared for it on the Day of Judgment. We should be thankful to Allah (SWT) that He is providing us with this unique opportunity to care for our health.
However, there will be some cost involved for this project. There is no fee for service, but there will be very minimal cost for usage of material. This affordable fee has been fixed for the blood cholesterol testing at $4.00 and for mammography at $60 (conventional). There might be other charges if necessary.
Criteria for screening of tests....
The Muslim community of Columbus, Ohio has grown rapidly during the last ten years. Many great events have taken place in the history of our community. The purchase of the Omar Ibn-el-Khattab mosque, and the formation of ISGC are just a few of those landmarks. And the plans of the Islamic Center to build an Islamic School and the mosque at Sunbury point to a bright future. The 32nd ISNA convention, Inshallah, will also be a landmark in the history of the Muslim community of Columbus, Ohio. We are honored, proud and thankful to Allah (SWT) who has provided us with this unique opportunity to be a part of ISNA convention.
Dr. Mohamed Shareef is a well-known brother in our community. Allah (SWT) has blessed him with many talents. For the first time and with the approval of ISNA, Dr. Shareef and his colleagues will be providing first aid and a Muslim health fair during the convention. It will be an opportunity to meet with experienced physicians, cardiologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, and expert medical technicians, all in one place. We will not have to run from one doctor to another, or from one lab to the next. We are thankful to our medical community, to the physicians, nurses, and health care providers, who are devoting their time and efforts in providing this important service. The cardiac stress testing is going to be an unusual part of this fair. It is done as part of the VIP screening health check-up in the physician's office or hospitals. Dr. Nayyer Shareef will also be providing mammography for a very small fee to cover the cost of the lab work.
Another important feature of this health fair will be a Red Cross blood Donation Drive. Muslims are the torch bearers of humankind. It is our obligation to show to the world that we not only care about our own community, but that we also care for the whole of the human race. the red Cross Blood Donation Drive and the Cancer screenings, provided by the Arthur James Cancer Institute's mobile mammography unit, will allow the Muslim community to show on a national level its commitment to participate in a positive way in the life and health care of this nation.
Some of the other important features of this health fair will be free basic check-ups, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, stress testing (heart check-up), breathing tests, and bone marrow registry.
Due to the blessing of Allah (SWT) mankind is finding cures for cancer. Once considered so deadly, we are now able to successfully combat it with early detection. Breast cancer among women and prostate cancer are common occurrences these days. Unfortunately, most of our brothers and sisters do not have proper access to medical facilities. The Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) has said that a strong Muslim is better than a weak Muslim but both are good. He had also said that for every disease, Allah (SWT) has given a cure. Our body and life are amana form Allah (SWT), and He will ask us how well we cared for it on the Day of Judgment. We should be thankful to Allah (SWT) that He is providing us with this unique opportunity to care for our health.
However, there will be some cost involved for this project. There is no fee for service, but there will be very minimal cost for usage of material. This affordable fee has been fixed for the blood cholesterol testing at $4.00 and for mammography at $60 (conventional). There might be other charges if necessary.
Criteria for screening of tests....
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Sept. 1995 Bone Marrow Registration! What? - Why?
by Norma Tarazi
Abdullah is a three and a half year old Muslim boy who lives in Milwaukee with his family and he was diagnosed with leukemia (blood cancer) several months ago. As part of his treatment he needed a bone marrow transplant - and the call went out all over the world looking for a good match. Unfortunately for Abdullah, he is half Arab.
Finding a bone marrow match is done by searching an international list of donors connected through the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Registry. The State of Israel has a bone marrow registry but the Arab countries don't. Too few Arabs are registered either here or elsewhere in the world, or Indians, Pakistanis, Africans, and most other Muslim ethnic groups.
So a good match could not be found for Abdullah. His father was the best match available, only a 50% match, the most any parent could be. Most parents aren't as good a match as that. If Abdullah had a brother or sister there would be only a 25% chance of one of them being a good match. Good bone marrow matches usually come from outside the immediate family, though from the same ethnic group. The better the match, the greater the chances of success. Doctors do the best they can, and all health comes from Allah.
So how do you register? The First Aid Station here at the ISNA convention plans to have Red Cross representatives here for this from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, September 2, and can register any healthy person between the ages of 18 -55. You can also register at home by calling XXXXXXXXXX to find the number of the National Marrow Donor Program center nearest you.
Registration is simple. They will take a small sample of your blood for analysis and you will fill out some papers. It takes about 15 minutes. Then your type of bone marrow will be registered with the international registry so if some day, someone who is closely related to you by Allah (through genetic similarity), usually someone from your ethnic background, needs a bone marrow transplant, you might be called upon to help with this donation. (You can refuse if you are called and would only be accepted as a donor if you are in good health when called.) Your donation could be sent anywhere in the world, wherever countries participate in the international registration system. Bone marrow donation is like blood donation in that your body replaces what you donate. You are not being asked to donate now, because it can't be stored. You will only be registered for possible donation later.
The Islamic Medical Association has set up a special fund called the National Marrow Donor Program Fund. They need money to set up local registration drives, pay for administrative expenses, and conduct a national campaign for Muslims to take the lead to help those in need. Tax deductable gifts may be sent to ....
For now, Abdullah has received donation from his father. Alhamdullah, it seems to be working and he is out of the hospital now. Please pray for his continued improvement and for the health of so many others in his situation. And register your bone marrow for future need, like Sr. Farhat Khan of Cincinnati, OH, a mother with three children, who has recently been diagnosed with a fatal blood disease and will need a transplant soon. Abdullah's mother knows 2 other Muslim children how have had this need over the past 2 years. One is now looking for a donor. The other died last year.
So register! For Abdullah! And all the others like him!
___________________________________
Please stop by at the Health Fair. Take the opportunity for yourself and your family to use the following services:
• Free basic check up
• Blood sugar & cholesterol check
• Cancer screening
• Mammography
• Heart check up (stress test)
• Breathing test
• First Aid
• Blood donation drive
• Bone marrow registry
Abdullah is a three and a half year old Muslim boy who lives in Milwaukee with his family and he was diagnosed with leukemia (blood cancer) several months ago. As part of his treatment he needed a bone marrow transplant - and the call went out all over the world looking for a good match. Unfortunately for Abdullah, he is half Arab.
Finding a bone marrow match is done by searching an international list of donors connected through the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Registry. The State of Israel has a bone marrow registry but the Arab countries don't. Too few Arabs are registered either here or elsewhere in the world, or Indians, Pakistanis, Africans, and most other Muslim ethnic groups.
So a good match could not be found for Abdullah. His father was the best match available, only a 50% match, the most any parent could be. Most parents aren't as good a match as that. If Abdullah had a brother or sister there would be only a 25% chance of one of them being a good match. Good bone marrow matches usually come from outside the immediate family, though from the same ethnic group. The better the match, the greater the chances of success. Doctors do the best they can, and all health comes from Allah.
So how do you register? The First Aid Station here at the ISNA convention plans to have Red Cross representatives here for this from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, September 2, and can register any healthy person between the ages of 18 -55. You can also register at home by calling XXXXXXXXXX to find the number of the National Marrow Donor Program center nearest you.
Registration is simple. They will take a small sample of your blood for analysis and you will fill out some papers. It takes about 15 minutes. Then your type of bone marrow will be registered with the international registry so if some day, someone who is closely related to you by Allah (through genetic similarity), usually someone from your ethnic background, needs a bone marrow transplant, you might be called upon to help with this donation. (You can refuse if you are called and would only be accepted as a donor if you are in good health when called.) Your donation could be sent anywhere in the world, wherever countries participate in the international registration system. Bone marrow donation is like blood donation in that your body replaces what you donate. You are not being asked to donate now, because it can't be stored. You will only be registered for possible donation later.
The Islamic Medical Association has set up a special fund called the National Marrow Donor Program Fund. They need money to set up local registration drives, pay for administrative expenses, and conduct a national campaign for Muslims to take the lead to help those in need. Tax deductable gifts may be sent to ....
For now, Abdullah has received donation from his father. Alhamdullah, it seems to be working and he is out of the hospital now. Please pray for his continued improvement and for the health of so many others in his situation. And register your bone marrow for future need, like Sr. Farhat Khan of Cincinnati, OH, a mother with three children, who has recently been diagnosed with a fatal blood disease and will need a transplant soon. Abdullah's mother knows 2 other Muslim children how have had this need over the past 2 years. One is now looking for a donor. The other died last year.
So register! For Abdullah! And all the others like him!
___________________________________
Please stop by at the Health Fair. Take the opportunity for yourself and your family to use the following services:
• Free basic check up
• Blood sugar & cholesterol check
• Cancer screening
• Mammography
• Heart check up (stress test)
• Breathing test
• First Aid
• Blood donation drive
• Bone marrow registry
Sept. 1995 "Touring" the Ummah
by Yasmin Inal
All ready? Get on board! In this section you will have an opportunity to "tour" the Muslim ummah. Muslims from communities within and around Columbus will invite you to take a peek at some of the "happenings" within their fold. through these brothers and sisters you'll "meet" Muslim students, "visit" Muslim businesses and "greet" Muslim families. We hope that these brief "tours" will help you feel at home here in mid-Ohio. The first stop will be Athens, Ohio.
Athens is a small county isolated in southeast Ohio. It is located about one and a half hours from Columbus. Although, it is basically a "university town" the MSA chapter is quite active. It is hard to find settled Muslim families in Athens. The people that constitute the Muslim community are mostly students. There are approximately 300 Muslims in Athens.
Many activities take place in the Islamic Center especially during the school year. In my opinion, the one that all Muslims in Athens look forward to is Ramadan. During this month, Muslims gather in the Islamic Center every night to break their fast. Then everybody tastes the joy of celebrating this holy month together. At the beginning of Ramadan, a cooking list is passed around. Everybody chooses the time that suits them to prepare some food for dinner.
During Ramadan the MSA organizes "Open House Dinner". Non-Muslims get the chance to see the Islamic Center of Athens - a place they feel intimidated to step in any other time. During their visit, the guests get to meet Muslims and ask them any kind of questions about Islam. Last year, we received a big number of students who were interested in these open house dinners. Therefore, we repeated these events a few times which is a great opportunity to make Da'wah.
After a month of fasting and Tarawih prayers, Muslims gather in the Islamic Center for Eid break-fast and dinner. Besides the Ramadan and Eid celebrations, there are several other activities that go on. For instance, every Friday night a lecture is given at the Islamic Center. After the lecture a dinner is served where Muslims socialize and exchange ideas about the lecture. As for the halaqahs (circles), there are several that are currently going on. There is an Arabic and English halaqah for brothers. For the sisters, there is an Arabic halaqah and a Quran recitation course. There is also an Arabic school for children that teachers them Quran, prayer, and the Arabic alphabet.
Whenever a new baby is born in the community, aqiqah dinner is held in the Islamic Center to welcome the newborn Muslim. International Muslim women union, an organization that aims to inform people about "women in Islam" and about the issues that relate to women. It aims to erase the image that in Islam women are oppressed and suppressed and to show that, on the contrary, Islam liberates the woman.
All ready? Get on board! In this section you will have an opportunity to "tour" the Muslim ummah. Muslims from communities within and around Columbus will invite you to take a peek at some of the "happenings" within their fold. through these brothers and sisters you'll "meet" Muslim students, "visit" Muslim businesses and "greet" Muslim families. We hope that these brief "tours" will help you feel at home here in mid-Ohio. The first stop will be Athens, Ohio.
Athens is a small county isolated in southeast Ohio. It is located about one and a half hours from Columbus. Although, it is basically a "university town" the MSA chapter is quite active. It is hard to find settled Muslim families in Athens. The people that constitute the Muslim community are mostly students. There are approximately 300 Muslims in Athens.
Many activities take place in the Islamic Center especially during the school year. In my opinion, the one that all Muslims in Athens look forward to is Ramadan. During this month, Muslims gather in the Islamic Center every night to break their fast. Then everybody tastes the joy of celebrating this holy month together. At the beginning of Ramadan, a cooking list is passed around. Everybody chooses the time that suits them to prepare some food for dinner.
During Ramadan the MSA organizes "Open House Dinner". Non-Muslims get the chance to see the Islamic Center of Athens - a place they feel intimidated to step in any other time. During their visit, the guests get to meet Muslims and ask them any kind of questions about Islam. Last year, we received a big number of students who were interested in these open house dinners. Therefore, we repeated these events a few times which is a great opportunity to make Da'wah.
After a month of fasting and Tarawih prayers, Muslims gather in the Islamic Center for Eid break-fast and dinner. Besides the Ramadan and Eid celebrations, there are several other activities that go on. For instance, every Friday night a lecture is given at the Islamic Center. After the lecture a dinner is served where Muslims socialize and exchange ideas about the lecture. As for the halaqahs (circles), there are several that are currently going on. There is an Arabic and English halaqah for brothers. For the sisters, there is an Arabic halaqah and a Quran recitation course. There is also an Arabic school for children that teachers them Quran, prayer, and the Arabic alphabet.
Whenever a new baby is born in the community, aqiqah dinner is held in the Islamic Center to welcome the newborn Muslim. International Muslim women union, an organization that aims to inform people about "women in Islam" and about the issues that relate to women. It aims to erase the image that in Islam women are oppressed and suppressed and to show that, on the contrary, Islam liberates the woman.
Sept. 1995 Columbus: A Jewel in the Heart of Ohio
by Iman Griffin
Welcome to Columbus! And for those from out-of-state, welcome to Ohio, "the heart of it all", is a bit overstated if not arrogant. Therefore, we plan to enlighten you on the many attractions that await you during your visit. We know that your main reason for coming to Columbus is to attend the Islamic society of North America's (ISNA) 32nd Annual Convention, however there is a wealth of attractions within walking distance or a short drive for you and your family to enjoy and experience. the city of Columbus has a slogan also, which is "more than you dreamed" and it was this diversity as well as the city's serenity and hospitality that attracted ISNA's convention planners. Br. Altaf Wani, a member of the Columbus Convention Steering Committee, stated that the Columbus Islamic community did nothing to influence the ISNA convention planners. Columbus was one of three cities suggested by the National Convention Bureau, and because of our modern convention center and the city's active and thriving Muslim community, Columbus was an easy choice.
Within walking distance of the Convention Center you can visit the Santa Maria, a carefully created replica of Christopher Columbus' flagship that sailed from Spain in 1492. the ship is docked at Batelle Park on the Scioto River. Batelle Park also offers row boats and paddle boats to take in the skyline of Columbus from the river. Also within walking distance is the Short North neighborhood which offers a variety of art galleries and cafes. For those who would like to do some serious shopping, the City Center Mall has 150 stores and several restaurants located on three levels.
If you have access to an automobile, you may want to visit the prestigious Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the country. The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) offers fun for children and adults alike: the Columbus Zoo, spread over 400 acres, has the nation's largest collection of reptiles and amphibians; and for history buffs, there are German Village (founded 1813) and Victorian Village.
Br. Altaf Wani says the mayor of Columbus welcomes visitors to the convention and that "the city has been very supportive and helpful, expecially the hotels", Br. Altaf and the Columbus Steering Committee also hope that "Columbus will receive a nice impression of Muslims, especially if everyone will give their best Islamic image".
_______________________________________
Greetings from the Elected Officers;
Mayor Gregory S. Lashutka of Columbus, State Treasurer L. Kenneth Blackwell, and a representative of Governor George V. Voinovich will extend their greetings to members of ISNA Convention 1995 in the Main Hall at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 2. Everyone is welcome to attend.
______________________
32nd Annual Convention of the Islamic Society of North America
Interfaith Session
You are cordially invited to attend the Interfaith Program titled "Muslims and People of the Book: How to work Together For a better World"
Location: Columbus Convention Center
Date: Sunday, September 3, 1995
time: 2:15 to 4:25 pm
for additional information contact: Mazhar Jalil at XXXXXXXX or Bonnie &Saleem Awan at XXXXXXX
Welcome to Columbus! And for those from out-of-state, welcome to Ohio, "the heart of it all", is a bit overstated if not arrogant. Therefore, we plan to enlighten you on the many attractions that await you during your visit. We know that your main reason for coming to Columbus is to attend the Islamic society of North America's (ISNA) 32nd Annual Convention, however there is a wealth of attractions within walking distance or a short drive for you and your family to enjoy and experience. the city of Columbus has a slogan also, which is "more than you dreamed" and it was this diversity as well as the city's serenity and hospitality that attracted ISNA's convention planners. Br. Altaf Wani, a member of the Columbus Convention Steering Committee, stated that the Columbus Islamic community did nothing to influence the ISNA convention planners. Columbus was one of three cities suggested by the National Convention Bureau, and because of our modern convention center and the city's active and thriving Muslim community, Columbus was an easy choice.
Within walking distance of the Convention Center you can visit the Santa Maria, a carefully created replica of Christopher Columbus' flagship that sailed from Spain in 1492. the ship is docked at Batelle Park on the Scioto River. Batelle Park also offers row boats and paddle boats to take in the skyline of Columbus from the river. Also within walking distance is the Short North neighborhood which offers a variety of art galleries and cafes. For those who would like to do some serious shopping, the City Center Mall has 150 stores and several restaurants located on three levels.
If you have access to an automobile, you may want to visit the prestigious Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the country. The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) offers fun for children and adults alike: the Columbus Zoo, spread over 400 acres, has the nation's largest collection of reptiles and amphibians; and for history buffs, there are German Village (founded 1813) and Victorian Village.
Br. Altaf Wani says the mayor of Columbus welcomes visitors to the convention and that "the city has been very supportive and helpful, expecially the hotels", Br. Altaf and the Columbus Steering Committee also hope that "Columbus will receive a nice impression of Muslims, especially if everyone will give their best Islamic image".
_______________________________________
Greetings from the Elected Officers;
Mayor Gregory S. Lashutka of Columbus, State Treasurer L. Kenneth Blackwell, and a representative of Governor George V. Voinovich will extend their greetings to members of ISNA Convention 1995 in the Main Hall at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 2. Everyone is welcome to attend.
______________________
32nd Annual Convention of the Islamic Society of North America
Interfaith Session
You are cordially invited to attend the Interfaith Program titled "Muslims and People of the Book: How to work Together For a better World"
Location: Columbus Convention Center
Date: Sunday, September 3, 1995
time: 2:15 to 4:25 pm
for additional information contact: Mazhar Jalil at XXXXXXXX or Bonnie &Saleem Awan at XXXXXXX
Sept. 1995 Welcome to ISNA Convention 95
by Ghada Al-Tarazi
Iqra! presents the INA Convention Newsletter for this year. The local community knows IQRA! However, for our dear guests coming from out of Columbus, here is the story.
IQRA! is the monthly newsletter of the Islamic Society of Greater Columbus. It has been published regularly for the last 15 months. When representatives from ISNA came to Columbus to organize this convention, the Muslim community of Columbus felt honored that it had been chosen to host the convention this year. We felt so excited that our humble newsletter will be opened up, spread out to be the Convention Newsletter. IQRA! is at the service of the Islamic Society of North American. we are working hard and doing our best to make this convention a success and specifically this newsletter because it is the mirror of the Convention. Working together towards achieving this goal has brought the local Muslim community closer towards achieving another goal: UNITY. ...
Iqra! presents the INA Convention Newsletter for this year. The local community knows IQRA! However, for our dear guests coming from out of Columbus, here is the story.
IQRA! is the monthly newsletter of the Islamic Society of Greater Columbus. It has been published regularly for the last 15 months. When representatives from ISNA came to Columbus to organize this convention, the Muslim community of Columbus felt honored that it had been chosen to host the convention this year. We felt so excited that our humble newsletter will be opened up, spread out to be the Convention Newsletter. IQRA! is at the service of the Islamic Society of North American. we are working hard and doing our best to make this convention a success and specifically this newsletter because it is the mirror of the Convention. Working together towards achieving this goal has brought the local Muslim community closer towards achieving another goal: UNITY. ...
July 1995 Islamic Society of North America Convention
Columbus convention Center, September 1-4 this year (Labor Day Weekend)
by Norma Tarazi
So what's going on? Imagine 20,000 Muslims in downtown Columbus! (That's twenty thousand.) Since over 15000 attended the convention last year in Chicago, that's about what organizers are expecting.
Speakers! You ought to see the list!! there are 99 speakers on the planning list, a Who's Who of leading American and World Muslims. Dr. Jamal Badawi, Aminah Assilmi, Imam Jamil Al-Amin, Imam Warth Deen Muhammad, Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Imam Siraj Wahaj, Imam Hamza Yusuf, and Dr. Aminah McCloud are only a handful of the distinguished speakers.
Book editors, writers, medical doctors, fiqh specialists, youth specialists, psychologists, educations, international charity representatives, a U.S. army chaplain, a Muslim social worker, an astronomer, a whole array of concerned dedicated specialists who work for the sake of Allah (SWT) daily helping Muslims. Come expecting to be inspired.
So what's on besides speeches? The biggest bazaar of any Islamic convention in American. One of the 2 large convention halls will be reserved just for the bazaar. then there are the children's programs. Muslim Youth of North America, an organization for teens, will be having its convention at the same time, with an exciting program for kids 12 and up. For younger children, ISNA has a babysitting center and a kids program, so children can enjoy the convention too.
Registration is cheaper if you sign up before August 11th. And don't think you have to be Muslim to attend. Bring your non-Muslim relatives or co-workers! Meal programs are available, with halal food, of course, so convention guests can just relax and concentrate on all the interesting ideas being discussed.
by Norma Tarazi
So what's going on? Imagine 20,000 Muslims in downtown Columbus! (That's twenty thousand.) Since over 15000 attended the convention last year in Chicago, that's about what organizers are expecting.
Speakers! You ought to see the list!! there are 99 speakers on the planning list, a Who's Who of leading American and World Muslims. Dr. Jamal Badawi, Aminah Assilmi, Imam Jamil Al-Amin, Imam Warth Deen Muhammad, Dr. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Imam Siraj Wahaj, Imam Hamza Yusuf, and Dr. Aminah McCloud are only a handful of the distinguished speakers.
Book editors, writers, medical doctors, fiqh specialists, youth specialists, psychologists, educations, international charity representatives, a U.S. army chaplain, a Muslim social worker, an astronomer, a whole array of concerned dedicated specialists who work for the sake of Allah (SWT) daily helping Muslims. Come expecting to be inspired.
So what's on besides speeches? The biggest bazaar of any Islamic convention in American. One of the 2 large convention halls will be reserved just for the bazaar. then there are the children's programs. Muslim Youth of North America, an organization for teens, will be having its convention at the same time, with an exciting program for kids 12 and up. For younger children, ISNA has a babysitting center and a kids program, so children can enjoy the convention too.
Registration is cheaper if you sign up before August 11th. And don't think you have to be Muslim to attend. Bring your non-Muslim relatives or co-workers! Meal programs are available, with halal food, of course, so convention guests can just relax and concentrate on all the interesting ideas being discussed.
July 1995 Computers in the Islamic Weekend School
by Souhail Khan
We at the Islamic Weekend school are pleased to inform you about the use of the computer as a learning/teaching tool starting this summer. A computer lab has been established. With the use of a 486DX equipped with two software, i.e., AL_QARI (a voice-activated, Arabic language tutorial software) and ALIM (an Islamic knowledge database containing Quran, hadith, fiqh, Islamic history, life of great Muslims, etc.) we hope to better educate our children. A pilot project is planned during the summer school starting Sunday, July 9th for six weeks at the Islamic Center on East Broad St.
For further information call br. Sohail Khan at XXX XXXX.
We are also looking for your ideas and suggestions to make the computer application at the IWS more useful. It is hoped that by generating interest among our young people we will be able to enhance their learning and to channel their interest into creating software that can be used in Islamic education.
Let us think, together, in new ways. New directions bring new horizons.
We at the Islamic Weekend school are pleased to inform you about the use of the computer as a learning/teaching tool starting this summer. A computer lab has been established. With the use of a 486DX equipped with two software, i.e., AL_QARI (a voice-activated, Arabic language tutorial software) and ALIM (an Islamic knowledge database containing Quran, hadith, fiqh, Islamic history, life of great Muslims, etc.) we hope to better educate our children. A pilot project is planned during the summer school starting Sunday, July 9th for six weeks at the Islamic Center on East Broad St.
For further information call br. Sohail Khan at XXX XXXX.
We are also looking for your ideas and suggestions to make the computer application at the IWS more useful. It is hoped that by generating interest among our young people we will be able to enhance their learning and to channel their interest into creating software that can be used in Islamic education.
Let us think, together, in new ways. New directions bring new horizons.
July 1995 ISGC summer School
by Katie Abdullah
This summer, the Omar Ibn El-Khattab Mosque will be sponsoring the annual summer program for Muslim children. Beginning on Tuesday, July 4th, the school will continue every Tuesday and Thursday for the next five weeks. The program will be from 11 am to 3 pm on these days so children should be at the Omar Mosque before 11 am. Children between the ages of 5 years and the teen years are invited to attend. You can register your children at the Omar Mosque when you bring them on the first day. tuition is just $25 per child, and financial assistance can be provided. Students are asked to bring a sack lunch, and a light snack will be provided. The goal of the summer program is to provide Muslim children with an opportunity to learn and play with other Muslim children, Inshallah, reinforcing the Islamic environment of their homes. The summer school has been designed around this goal, so that in discussions, field trips, and play activities, Islamic values, behavior, and etiquette can be demonstrated and modeled.
The three components of the program are as follows:
1) Quranic recitation, memorization, and meaning, according to each child's ability.
2) Activities and discussions with Islamic themes.
3) Games and play utilizing Islamic etiquette and behavior.
The participants will be divided into age groups. The youngest children will spend more time with organized social activities, while the seven to 10 year olds will be participating at "challenging tables" with puzzles, mind games, etc. Children over the age of ten will be divided into girls and boys. The boy's group will engage in sports activities, while both groups hope to have lectures and discussions pertaining to current issues for Muslim American youth.
Several field trips are planned for this summer. Field trips are always popular events for the children. In addition to the fun of making short trips, they have an opportunity to be together as Muslims in the American environment, Inshallah, further reinforcing their Islamic values and behavior.
The coordinators of the program hope to have available for the children a library with materials for their reading level in English and Arabic. The more the students know about Islam, the more they will understand their families and themselves, and they will Inshallah, feel more confident being Muslim in America.
Volunteers are welcome and needed. You may volunteer for the whole program, certain parts of the program (such as Quranic recitation, discussions, crafts, or sports) or certain days you are available. The children enjoy seeing a familiar friendly face. May Allah (SWT) reward you for your sincere efforts to hlep the Muslim children! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Sr. Rima XXX XXXX or Sr. Farida XXX XXXX.
This summer, the Omar Ibn El-Khattab Mosque will be sponsoring the annual summer program for Muslim children. Beginning on Tuesday, July 4th, the school will continue every Tuesday and Thursday for the next five weeks. The program will be from 11 am to 3 pm on these days so children should be at the Omar Mosque before 11 am. Children between the ages of 5 years and the teen years are invited to attend. You can register your children at the Omar Mosque when you bring them on the first day. tuition is just $25 per child, and financial assistance can be provided. Students are asked to bring a sack lunch, and a light snack will be provided. The goal of the summer program is to provide Muslim children with an opportunity to learn and play with other Muslim children, Inshallah, reinforcing the Islamic environment of their homes. The summer school has been designed around this goal, so that in discussions, field trips, and play activities, Islamic values, behavior, and etiquette can be demonstrated and modeled.
The three components of the program are as follows:
1) Quranic recitation, memorization, and meaning, according to each child's ability.
2) Activities and discussions with Islamic themes.
3) Games and play utilizing Islamic etiquette and behavior.
The participants will be divided into age groups. The youngest children will spend more time with organized social activities, while the seven to 10 year olds will be participating at "challenging tables" with puzzles, mind games, etc. Children over the age of ten will be divided into girls and boys. The boy's group will engage in sports activities, while both groups hope to have lectures and discussions pertaining to current issues for Muslim American youth.
Several field trips are planned for this summer. Field trips are always popular events for the children. In addition to the fun of making short trips, they have an opportunity to be together as Muslims in the American environment, Inshallah, further reinforcing their Islamic values and behavior.
The coordinators of the program hope to have available for the children a library with materials for their reading level in English and Arabic. The more the students know about Islam, the more they will understand their families and themselves, and they will Inshallah, feel more confident being Muslim in America.
Volunteers are welcome and needed. You may volunteer for the whole program, certain parts of the program (such as Quranic recitation, discussions, crafts, or sports) or certain days you are available. The children enjoy seeing a familiar friendly face. May Allah (SWT) reward you for your sincere efforts to hlep the Muslim children! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Sr. Rima XXX XXXX or Sr. Farida XXX XXXX.
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