Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Sep 17, 2026.
Muslims can be fully American and deeply Muslim
“The point is that my generation does not have to choose between being deeply Muslim and fully American.”
In one sentence
Muslim Americans shaped by 9/11 should refuse to inherit fear and hatred, embody justice and mercy, and confidently live as both deeply Muslim and fully American.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Reflects on how 9/11 shaped Muslim American identity and public perceptions.
- Uses Quranic guidance to argue that hatred must never produce injustice.
- Draws on Rumi and historical examples to show that self-control and mercy are forms of resistance.
- Calls Muslims to defend marginalized groups and participate confidently in American public life.
- Presents Makespace as a spiritual home where young Muslims can grow and belong.
- Closes by urging listeners to express Islam through justice, mercy, courage, and everyday conduct.
Try this week
Refuse to answer stereotypes or unfairness toward Muslims with prejudice against others.
Stand up for African Americans, Latinos, immigrants, and poor rural white families facing unjust policies.
Engage in American culture and politics while evaluating politicians independently.
Treat classmates with honesty, speak respectfully when disagreeing, and stand up for people treated unfairly.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“If someone stereotypes me, I do not have to stereotype them back. If someone is unfair to Muslims, that does not give me permission to be unfair to anyone else.”
“Those who hate us do not get to teach us our morals. Sometimes, the greatest resistance is refusing to let injustice decide what kind of person you become.”
“The point is that my generation does not have to choose between being deeply Muslim and fully American.”
“They may try to shape the world around us, but they do not get to own the world within us.”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
The sermon says that Muslim young people inherited the effects of September 11, even though many were not yet born. We cannot change the past, but we can choose what kind of Muslims we become now. Islam calls us to justice, mercy, and courage, including toward people who may misunderstand or stereotype us. Being deeply Muslim and fully American do not have to conflict. Our faith should show in how we treat classmates, neighbors, and anyone facing unfairness.
- When have you seen someone respond to unfairness with patience or courage?
- How can our family show our values through the way we treat classmates and neighbors?
- What does being both Muslim and American mean to you?
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