The Call for Muslim Voter Participation in U.S. Elections

 

MANHATTAN. Shamsi Ali Al-Kajangi, Director and Imam of the Jamaica Muslim Center, highlights the critical importance of voter participation among American Muslims in his recent article published ahead of Election Day on November 5. Al-Kajangi describes this day as significant, marking the opportunity for Americans to elect their leaders for the next four years.

He emphasizes that this year's election is particularly crucial given the numerous global threats facing humanity. Al-Kajangi notes the potential for global conflict, exacerbating issues such as climate change, poverty, and the widening divide between socioeconomic classes. He stresses that many of these problems are intertwined with American policies and actions.

While acknowledging the challenges, Al-Kajangi also recognizes the positive aspects of American society, including its status as a land of opportunities for education, economic growth, and political freedoms. He asserts that America has a vital role to play in addressing global issues and that the leadership chosen in this election will influence that role.

Al-Kajangi argues that American Muslims must actively engage in the electoral process, including voting for the President and Vice President. He encourages Muslims to step away from passivity and take an active role in shaping the nation's future in line with American values of freedom, equality, and justice for all.

Furthermore, he points out that participation in the political process serves a greater purpose of self-recognition and empowerment for the Muslim community. It is a declaration of their integral place in American society, affirming that they possess equal rights alongside other citizens.

Al-Kajangi underscores the difference in political engagement between America and other countries, where involvement can sometimes be viewed as a threat to the government. In contrast, he states that political participation in the U.S. is a means of gaining recognition and ensuring that the rights of Muslims are respected and upheld.

He urges American Muslims to register to vote, participate in elections, and consider running for public office as a way to foster positive change in society. Al-Kajangi cites the Islamic principle of "al-amru bi al-ma’ruf wa an-nahyu an al-munkar" (enjoining good, forbidding evil) as a guiding principle for Muslims to engage in politics for the betterment of the nation.

In closing, he emphasizes the importance of voting, urging American Muslims to fulfill their civic duty regardless of which candidates they support. “What matters is to get out and vote,” he states, reiterating the necessity of their involvement in shaping the nation's future.(*)

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