Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Oct 9, 2026.

Muslims should know their roots and serve society

“The Muslim has to have wa'i, has to be alert, and has to utilize his strength wherever he can.”

The khateeb, at 13:06

In one sentence

The khutbah argues that recognizing Islam's historical and cultural roots in Latin America should motivate Muslims to build cross-community relationships, participate civically, and invest in the education and identity of the next generation.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Introduces evidence of Muslim historical presence in Latin America and the Caribbean.
  2. Connects Spanish vocabulary, surnames, architecture, and cultural sites to Islamic history.
  3. Promotes Latino Muslim Day as an educational and community-building event.
  4. Urges Muslims to engage with local elections and broader civic life.
  5. Calls for preserving Muslim children's identity while preparing them to serve society.
  6. Encourages families to learn about EITC funding and support Manara Islamic Academy.
Try this week
Attend Latino Muslim Day and invite family members to join the educational gathering.
Attend Candidates Night and participate in local civic and electoral life.
Learn more about Latino and Muslim history through reading and discovery.
Visit the Manara Islamic Academy table, get a brochure, and ask about directing eligible EITC funds.
Support children's identity, education, and development as beneficial citizens.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“So I wasn't there trying to preach Islam. I was there trying to raise the level of consciousness because that's what a Muslim does.”
MALV · Whitehall, PA
Play from 4:04
“So when we talk about Latino Muslims, a lot of them are returning back to Islam, returning back to their roots.”
MALV · Whitehall, PA
Play from 4:48
“The Muslim has to have wa'i, has to be alert, and has to utilize his strength wherever he can.”
MALV · Whitehall, PA
Play from 13:06
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Today's khutbah reminded us that Islam has deep historical roots in Latin America, including in language, names, architecture, and culture. Learning this history can help Latino Muslims feel connected to their heritage and help others understand Islam more clearly. The imam also encouraged the community to participate in civic life and care about the well-being of everyone around us. Finally, he asked families to support children's identity and education, including by learning how EITC funds can benefit Manara Islamic Academy.

  1. What part of your family or community history would you like to learn more about?
  2. How could we show concern for our neighbors this week?
  3. What helps young people keep their identity while serving others?