Dear Muslims: let’s lead by example on #MuslimBan

How should one respond to persecution and outright discrimination? With compassion, poise and setting a good example. We stand on the cusp of a turning point in the history of humanity. The values that the United States had advocated publically – human rights, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of movement, women’s rights – are being abandoned by their loudest champion. This is a moment when Muslims can step up to the plate and demonstrate that these aren’t just American values but human values. Our religion, as Muslims, preaches the same values of tolerance and freedom. For those activists in Muslim countries who advocate these values at the cost of being branded ‘American agents,’ this represents an opening to advocate these positions as ‘Muslims.’

There is a fierce critique in Muslim communities against protesting the Muslim ban before we set our own house in order. Look at the state of minorities in your country, they argue. First, do something about the way women are treated. Why don’t we take in more refugees? This is a fair argument. But we need to do both. We need to make Muslim countries more tolerant, champion minority, refugee and women’s rights. We also need to stand up against persecution of Muslims – or any minority for that matter – elsewhere in the world. This isn’t an either or choice. We must do both.

Like all difficult moments, we must look to the example of the Prophet (PBUH) when dealing with such a morally, politically and emotionally charged issue. When the Prophet (PBUH) and the Muslim community were persecuted in Makkah, how did they respond? With character, dignity and grace. Instead of resorting to violence, the Prophet (PBUH) chose to fight back against the persecution through his character and unshakeable faith in God. He stood with other oppressed segments of society and they rallied behind him in response. In the history of influential men, the Prophet  (PBUH) stands out as a shining example for changing the destiny of his nation and the world by being a good person, even when others were not being good to him.

So, how can we follow his example today to respond to the Muslim ban? First, we must pray and seek God’s mercy to help us become better human beings and strong enough to help humanity. Second, we must raise our voices and awareness on injustice around the world. But writing or sharing articles and Facebook posts like these isn’t good enough. It’s only a good beginning. We must act. Muslims in the US should join the protests stunning airports around the country. You can also call your senator or congress representative and let them know that this isn’t the America its founding fathers created. On top, set a good example, help a refugee family, support other oppressed minorities like African Americans and Native Americans. Last but not the least, demonstrate exemplary behaviour and character during your stay in the US and reach out to befriend non-Muslims. Don’t preach, show them by example.

For Muslims in Pakistan, let’s stand up for the minorities and oppressed in our country. Let’s raise our voices and come out in protest against discrimination, just like Americans are joining the protest against the Muslim ban. Let’s help refugee families in our country. Let’s showcase love and religious tolerance. In response to hate and persecution, let’s bring out the best version of ourselves.

For Muslims in other western nations, let’s advocate for better religious tolerance in all countries of the world – Muslim and non-Muslim. Let’s also show extraordinary character and grace in the face of persecution. This is easier than it sounds. For example, yesterday I reached out to my local mosque and asked if there were any Syrian refugees we could help in the area. Within a few hours, they said yes, there were some kids who were struggling in school and need tutoring. I called another friend to join me. He said yes immediately. The only thing which kept me up at night? Whether I could still solve high school algebra problems.

This is not a moment for any of us to remain silent or unmoved. There’s a saying along the lines of ‘never let a good crisis go to waste.’ History stands at a tipping point and Muslims must rally together on the right side of history. It’s time to stand up, peacefully and with poise, against oppression. It’s time to lead the world by setting a good example, just like our Prophet. May God bless and protect us all.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 2^nd, 2017.

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