Majlis Ash-Shura of New York marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a grand banquet attended by over 450 guests. The event, held at the esteemed Grand Prospect Hall in February 2019, showcased the organization’s dedication to serving and empowering the Muslim community in Metropolitan New York.
Since its establishment in 1989, Majlis Ash-Shura has been a steadfast advocate for the Muslim community, uniting over 90 mosques and organizations under one voice. Serving as the official representative, the council offers guidance on a spectrum of critical issues, spanning political and social justice to community development. Rooted in a mission of collaboration and understanding, Majlis Ash-Shura focuses on spirituality, socioeconomics, and civic engagement to pave the way for a fair and prosperous future for all.
Dr. Abdelhafidh Djemil, President of Majlis Ash-Shura, commenced the banquet proceedings with a warm welcome to all attendees, expressing gratitude for their support and presence. He emphasized the need for a shared vision among Muslims, stating, “We cannot work together unless we share the same vision… If we don’t have the same vision, we will be clashing with each other.” He underscored the significance of collective action, highlighting the role of Majlis Ash-Shura in fostering unity and coordination among Muslim organizations. “We plan for the future of the Muslim community… and we are responsible for the work today… may Allah guide us.” (Dr. Abdelhafidh Djemil)
Both Dr. Abdelhafidh Djemil, President of Majlis Ash-Shura, and Oussama Jammal, Secretary General of the US Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO), delivered impactful speeches echoing the theme of unity and collective action within the Muslim community. Reflecting on the imperative of unity within the community, Oussama Jammal emphasized its divine mandate and practical necessity in navigating the challenges faced by Muslims in the United States. Stressing the importance of collective efforts, he remarked, “Bringing people together and making unity among organisations is not an easy job but it’s a must.” (Oussama Jammal)
Dr Khalilah Sabra, an immigration attorney, delivered the First keynote address at the event, sharing her journey to Islam and reflecting on the challenges faced by Muslims in America. “Our duty now is not to look at the total picture from just then but from without,” Sabra urged, calling on fellow Muslims to take action and stand up against injustice. (Dr Khalilah Sabra)
Following Dr. Sabra’s address Imam Talib Abdur-Rashid delivered a stirring speech, focusing on the imperative need to pursue justice for the Black community in America. He urged leaders to prioritize healing the divisions that persist within the community, particularly at the grassroots level. “Too many Muslim leaders, specifically imams, are disconnected from the community,” he asserted, calling for a concerted effort to engage with issues beyond immigration and to foster unity across ethnic, class, and neighborhood lines. (Imam Abdur-Rashid)
Nationally recognized Imam Omar Suleiman delivered a stirring address at the 30th Anniversary Banquet of Majlis Ash-Shura, emphasizing the significance of backing Muslim organizations and dedicating efforts to problem-solving.
During his speech, Imam Omar Suleiman honored the legacy of leaders who selflessly served the community, even in the absence of recognition or resources. He emphasized the strength found in the Muslim community’s diversity, remarking, “It’s all part of our strength… constant tension because of our diversity that should be a strength… when you take all of those cultures and differences and put them together… this is what we get.” (Imam Omar Suleiman)
During the awards ceremony, three outstanding individuals were recognized for their exemplary contributions to the Muslim community. Mohamed Bahe, Batool Chaudhry, and Saleem Rahim received accolades as the Muslim, Muslimah, and Young New Yorkers of the Year, respectively.
Mohamed Bahe expressed the challenges he faced as a young individual with limited resources but emphasized the importance of unity within the community. He remarked, “We have many pockets of people doing wonderful things, but we are… very divided… we’re a force when we’re together.” (Mohamed Bahe). Bahe urged attendees to unite under the banner of Majlis Ash-Shura, declaring, “Make Majlis Ash-Shura the force and the voice of the Muslims in New York City.” (Mohamed Bahe)
Dr. Ammaar Saeed of AHAD TV, attending banquet added words of unity,
“The Muslims are required to be united in matters of anti-Islamic agenda and regardless of different organization projects but should be united under Islam to support and must be united against hatred and profiling” (Dr. Ammaar Saeed)
Dr Yasir Qadhi wrapped up the banquet evening with a poignant message centered on honoring the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). In his closing remarks, Dr. Qadhi urged the audience to uphold these principles and virtues, stating, “Let us celebrate our legacy by embracing the principles of truth and justice, even in the face of adversity. Let us stand firm for what is right, regardless of the challenges we may encounter along the way.” (Dr Yasir Qadhi)
