Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Aug 13, 2026.

Muslims must lead with justice

“It is our responsibility to uphold righteousness as the benchmark for community life and prosperity.”

The khateeb, at 7:44

In one sentence

Muslims in America must recognize Islam's deep American history and accept their amanah to stand for justice, learn their history, and participate ethically in community leadership despite Islamophobia and pressure.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Frames rising Islamophobia and attempts to portray Islam as foreign or incompatible with America.
  2. Uses Quranic and prophetic examples to argue that justice and moral character cross religious and tribal lines.
  3. Calls Muslims to leave spectatorship, act courageously, and create opportunities for future generations.
  4. Uses family political leadership and the Prophet's perseverance to illustrate persistence under intimidation.
  5. Uses teachings about obeying leaders and Umar's example to urge accountability for public and local leadership.
  6. Concludes by urging Muslims to know their history, study Islam with context, and uphold justice as their trust.
Try this week
Learn Muslim and American history, including Islam's role in America.
Study Islam with context rather than slogans or isolated claims.
Participate in community and civic leadership, especially when justice requires leaving your comfort zone.
Hold leaders accountable for implementing just policies and conduct.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 29Used to frame hardship and social pressure as tests requiring believers to uphold justice.
Sahih MuslimUsed to argue that obedience to a leader applies only when the command is good.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“It is our responsibility to uphold righteousness as the benchmark for community life and prosperity.”
Pillars · University City, NC
Play from 7:44
“His father could not have known that his run would then lead to somebody else's accomplishments and success.”
Pillars · University City, NC
Play from 9:40
“the obedience to a commander is obligatory only in what is good”
Pillars · University City, NC
Play from 16:13
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khateeb reminded us that Allah has given us a trust to act with justice, honesty, and care wherever we live. He described how trustworthy dealings and good character help communities thrive, including across religious differences. Through a story about his family, he encouraged us to remember that our efforts today can open doors for children and future generations. He also urged us to learn our history and study our faith with context so that our understanding leads to helpful action. As a family, we can reflect on how to live these values in everyday choices and remember those who are sick in our prayers.

  1. What would fairness look like in a disagreement with a friend or sibling?
  2. Who has set a good example for you, and what did their actions teach you?