MANA’s vision is to see an America where justice, equality, and righteousness reign and where the legacy of Islam lives on. In today’s complex political landscape, the call for American Muslims to engage civically and politically is more crucial than ever. Many people are engaging now who have never engaged before. But what framework are we using to engage? Are we leading with faith or fear?
As we navigate the political activism and civic engagement arenas, embodying our faith and remaining true to Islamic values and principles is essential. By acting on faith and fearing only Allah, we can make decisions that reflect our beliefs and trust in His guidance, leaving the outcomes to Him.
The Foundation of Faith in Civic Engagement
Islam teaches us to seek justice, promote equity, and care for our communities. These principles are not just spiritual aspirations but actionable guidelines that can shape our civic and political involvement. Acting on faith means prioritizing these values over fear or expediency, ensuring that our decisions align with our beliefs.
The Importance of Acting on Faith
- Integrity and Consistency: When we act on faith, our actions align with our core values. This integrity ensures we remain consistent in our efforts, building trust within our communities and beyond. By staying true to our principles, we become reliable advocates for justice and positive change.
- Courage and Resilience: Acting out of faith rather than fear empowers us to face challenges with courage. Fear can lead to compromises that undermine our values, while faith encourages us to stand firm, knowing that Allah is the ultimate arbiter of success.
- Trust in Allah: By making decisions based on faith, we place our absolute trust in Allah. This trust liberates us from the anxiety of outcomes, allowing us to focus on our intentions and efforts. It reinforces the belief that true success lies in Allah’s hands, not in immediate results.
Embodying Islamic Values in Civic Engagement
- Advocating for Justice: Islam calls us to be unwavering advocates for justice. Engage in initiatives that address systemic inequalities and support policies that promote fairness and dignity for all.
- Promoting Compassion and Mercy: Infuse political and civic actions with compassion and mercy. Whether it’s through dialogue, community service, or policy-making, let these values guide interactions and decisions.
- Building Alliances: Collaborate with diverse groups who share similar goals. Building alliances based on mutual respect and shared values amplifies our impact and fosters understanding across communities.
- Educating and Empowering: Empower others through education and advocacy. By raising awareness about important issues and providing resources, we can inspire informed and active participation in civic life.
Avoiding the Pitfalls of Fear-Based Decisions
When fear dictates our actions, we risk compromising our principles. Decisions made from fear often lead to short-term solutions that may undermine long-term goals and values. By focusing on faith, fearing only Allah, and consciously avoiding fear-based decisions, we uphold our integrity and strengthen our communities. This ensures that our actions are driven by conviction and purpose. Acting on faith allows us to navigate challenges with clarity and purpose, ensuring our actions reflect our deepest values and trust in Allah.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As African-American Muslims, our civic and political engagement is an opportunity to embody our faith and effect meaningful change. By holding firmly to Islamic values and principles, we act with integrity, courage, and trust in Allah. Let us move forward with unwavering faith, knowing that by doing so, we not only fulfill our civic duties but also honor our spiritual commitments.
In this journey, may we inspire others to join us in acting on faith, contributing to a more just and compassionate society for all.
Akanke, an Atlanta native, grew up in a non-religious family. In her late twenties, she embraced Islam after an unexpected introduction to the faith while training as a television producer. Working on a live show featuring Muslim guests, she was captivated by the insightful discussions surrounding Islam. Encouraged by her colleagues, she attended Friday prayers and began reading the Quran, ultimately finding profound inspiration that solidified her decision to convert. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong passion for spirituality and personal growth rooted in her faith.
She holds a degree in Communication from Georgia State University, specializing in film, television, and anthropology. Her diverse career includes roles as a television and radio producer, life coach, voiceover artist, and abstract painter. During a decade spent in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Akanke refined her public speaking and leadership skills, mentoring women through two women-only Toastmasters clubs she founded. Above all, she emphasizes spirituality as the cornerstone of self-actualization, advocating for a life devoted to Allah. She believes personal growth and lasting success stem from a strong, loving relationship with Him.
Since 2007, Akanke has been actively involved with MANA in various capacities, including serving as Director of Communications and Board Vice President.
