Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Aug 15, 2026.

Muslims should help build America

“You have to take the initiative, you have to work, you have to speak out.”

The khateeb, at 26:18

In one sentence

Drawing on the Hijrah and Quranic justice, the khateeb argues that Muslims should honestly acknowledge America’s flaws while appreciating its freedoms and opportunities, contributing actively as proud Muslims and Americans.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Recounts the Prophet’s Hijrah from Mecca, including Imam Ali’s sacrifice on Laylatul Mabit.
  2. Describes the cave of Thawr, Allah’s protection, the return of entrusted property, and the founding of the Muslim community in Medina.
  3. Uses Quranic teachings on justice to argue that every nation has both strengths and weaknesses.
  4. Acknowledges America’s poverty, inequality, foreign-policy failures, racism, and restrictions while emphasizing religious and expressive freedoms.
  5. Presents America as a land of opportunity and urges Muslims to work, speak up, contribute, remain, and embrace both Muslim and American identities.
Try this week
Work and contribute to society rather than merely complain.
Speak up and defend oneself and one’s community when necessary.
Use religious and expressive freedoms responsibly.
Remain engaged in America and help build it for future generations.
Maintain both Muslim faith and American civic belonging.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 8Used to frame Quraysh’s plot against the Prophet and Allah’s superior planning.
Surah 2Used to honor Imam Ali’s willingness to risk his life for God’s pleasure.
Surah 4Used to command justice even when emotions or hostility tempt people toward partiality.
Surah 103Used to emphasize faith, good works, truth, and patience.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“you have to take the initiative you have to work you have to speak out”
IECOC · Costa Mesa, CA
Play from 26:18
“to be proud Muslims and proud Americans there is no contradiction”
IECOC · Costa Mesa, CA
Play from 27:03
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khateeb began by remembering the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina, Imam Ali's courage, and the care taken to return people's entrusted belongings. He then reminded us that every country has strengths and faults, and that our faith calls us to judge fairly. He expressed gratitude for opportunities in America to worship, speak, and build a future, while acknowledging poverty, inequality, and serious concerns about foreign policy. He encouraged Muslims to hold to their values when facing prejudice and to contribute to their communities. His message was that we can be proud Muslims and proud Americans, giving thanks while working to make our country better.

  1. What does returning something entrusted to you show about your character?
  2. What is something you appreciate about our country, and something you would like to improve?
  3. What is one kind or helpful action our family could take for our neighbors this week?