ISNA CEO Azhar Azeez interview on BBC regarding Hajj | |
A security guard. A community member. A staff member. Three men killed at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Their families need us now.
Original Disclaimer: While there were other victims of this tragedy from the community, we are waiting on their families before disclosing their names and details. Any proceeds raised from this campaign will be given to Amin Abdullah’s family and other victims’ families as well under the supervision of the Islamic Center of San Diego.
Updated Disclaimer May 20, 2026: Our fundraiser has always been intended for all three families — Amin Abdullah, Nader Awad, and Mansour Kaziha. Our campaign page included this from the start in a disclaimer. We waited for family confirmation before making it more explicit — out of respect during this painful time. We now have that confirmation. We have updated our campaign to make clear what was always our intention: equal support for all three families. We grieve with all three. We stand with all three. ~Imam Taha and the ISCD Board
On Monday, May 18, 2026, three men were killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego — the largest mosque in San Diego County, attached to a school where dozens of children were in class. Police are investigating the attack as a hate crime.
The three men killed were not strangers to one another, and they were not strangers to the hundreds of families who walk through the doors of that center every week. They were the people who made it run.
Amin Abdullah was the security guard. He was a father of eight. When two gunmen opened fire outside the building, Amin stood his ground — and the San Diego Police Chief publicly credited him with "playing a pivotal role in keeping this from being much worse." Teachers, staff, and more than a dozen children walked safely out of that building that afternoon because of what Amin did. He paid for that with his life.
Nader Awad was a community member and neighbor of the center, and lived just across the street. When he heard the gunfire, he ran toward it, toward his wife and the community that was his entire life. He did not make it back across that street.
Abul Ezz (Mansour Kaziha) worked in the center's food store and was part of the daily rhythm of the masjid — one of the people who kept the community fed, welcomed, and at home in their own house of worship.
This page is the home for all three of their families.
Every dollar raised on this page will go directly to the families of the three men killed. Funds will cover funeral costs, immediate household needs, children's education, long-term financial stability for surviving spouses, and trauma counseling for those left behind.
You do not have to share their faith to stand with their families. You only have to believe that no one should be murdered in their place of worship — and that when a community is attacked, the rest of us answer.
These three men kept that community safe, fed, and taught. Now it is our turn to keep their families safe.
To God we belong, and to God we return.
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Indiana Muslim Cemetery: Honoring Our Legacy, Resting in the Direction of the Sunnah
Dear Community Members,
Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,
The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is honored to introduce the Indiana Muslim Cemetery Project, a dedicated initiative to serve the long‑term needs of our community.
Through this project, we are working to secure and develop an exclusive Muslim section at West Ridge Park Cemetery, which will be officially designated as the Indiana Muslim Cemetery. This section has been carefully surveyed so that all graves will be oriented in the direction recommended in the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet ﷺ, ensuring our brothers and sisters are laid to rest with dignity and in accordance with Islamic tradition.
To fully bring this vision to life, we need your generous support.
Your donations will help:
- Secure and develop the dedicated Muslim section
- Cover initial setup, administrative, and maintenance-related costs
- Ensure affordable and dignified burial options for Muslims in our region for years to come
- Help provide financial support for those who cannot afford the plot
This is a unique opportunity to take part in Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity). Every future burial, every du’a made by a grieving family, and every act of remembrance in this space can be a source of continuous reward for you and your loved ones, insha’Allah.
“When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.”
(Sahih Muslim)
We invite you to donate generously and to share this campaign with family and friends. No amount is too small – every contribution brings us closer to providing this essential service to our community.
Please support the Indiana Muslim Cemetery Project today and make this a legacy of mercy, dignity, and faith.
JazakumAllahu khairan for your support and du’as.
ISNA – Islamic Society of North America
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ISNA Celebration Banquet - Dallas
Theme: Standing up for justice
Join the Islamic Society of North America for a celebratory banquet honoring a distinguished community member with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their lifetime of service and impact. Under the theme "Standing Up for Social Justice," the evening features three inspiring speakers, Miko Peled, Dalia Mogahed and Azhar Azeez, and will be emceed by Khalid Hamideh. Enjoy dinner, fellowship, and a meaningful program celebrating leadership and collective responsibility.
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Speakers:
Miko Peled is a Jewish American who is an Author, Speaker, and Political Activist well known for his support of Palestine.
Dalia Mogahed is a prominent American researcher, author, and public speaker. Known for her work in social justice and community development.
Azhar Azeez is a speaker, motivational speaker, CEO of ISNA
Emcee is Khalid Hamideh
Emcee:
Khalid Hamideh
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63rd Annual ISNA Convention Updates
Use the discount code ISNA20 for 20% off in the month of May! Only a couple of days left!.
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Convention Matrimonial Event Registration Launch
We are thrilled to invite you to register for the ISNA Matrimonial Event taking place at the 63rd Annual ISNA Convention in Detroit, Michigan! This event is specially designed for our beloved community, where you can meet like-minded Muslims who, just like you, are seeking a halal way to connect with one another.
A Beautiful Part of Our Deen
Marriage is not just a social contract; it’s a sacred bond that is deeply embedded in our Deen. It is emphasized in the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said:
"Marriage is my Sunnah. Whoever turns away from my Sunnah is not of me." (Narrated by Ibn Majah)
These events present a unique opportunity to explore potential partners while enhancing your spiritual journey. Together, let’s fulfill the Sunnah and build connections grounded in faith.
Enjoy Food and Community
Enjoy delicious food, engaging conversations, and opportunities to build lasting relationships in a friendly atmosphere.
We look forward to seeing you there and sharing in the blessings of this beautiful gathering!
May Allah guide us all and grant us success in our pursuits.
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ISNA Convention 2026 in Detroit, Michigan
We at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) are delighted to announce that the 63rd Annual ISNA Convention will take place in Detroit, Michigan, over the Labor Day Weekend, September 4 - 7, 2026.
The ISNA convention is celebrated as one of the largest annual gatherings of Muslims in America, drawing thousands of participants. This convention promises to be an inspiring gathering, bringing together community members, families, leaders, scholars, youth, the business community, and other guests from across the country. With thought-provoking sessions, uplifting spiritual programs, engaging youth activities, interfaith dialogues, and a dynamic bazaar, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
The program will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and special events designed to address timely issues, strengthen community bonds, and highlight opportunities for growth and service.
Detroit, with its rich history and vibrant Muslim community, will serve as the perfect host city for this national gathering of faith, knowledge, and unity.
Convention Highlights:
· Keynote sessions with distinguished speakers
· Interactive workshops and panel discussions
· Networking opportunities for professionals and students
· Special events and exhibitions
· Art Exhibit, Film Festival, Science Fair, Robotics
· Basketball Tournament
· Community recognition and award ceremonies
· Interfaith Events and Activities
· Matrimonial Events
· Chaplaincy Conference
· And much more
We invite all members, partners, and the broader community to join us in this landmark event. Your presence will help make the convention a meaningful and impactful experience.
Stay tuned for more details on registration, hotel accommodations, and program highlights.
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A Program of ISNA
#POWEREDBYISNA
| MYNA Summer Camp 2026 is Here! | |
Diminishing Doubt: Staying Firm in a World That Pulls You Away
In a world shaped by constant distractions, social pressure, and overwhelming information, many young Muslims struggle not just with staying consistent in their faith, but with feeling fully certain in it. Diminishing Doubt: Staying Firm in a World That Pulls You Away is centered on confronting that reality head-on. This theme will explore the doubts and misconceptions that often go unspoken, while equipping campers with the tools to navigate them with clarity, confidence, and conviction. At the same time, we will reflect on the everyday forces that pull us away from our deen, from habits and environments to internal struggles, and learn how to stay grounded despite them. Through the example of the Prophet SAW, the Sahaba, and key moments in Islamic history, campers will see what it looks like to remain firm through both intellectual and personal challenges. By the end of camp, our goal is for every camper to walk away not only with fewer doubts, but with a stronger, more resilient faith and a clear sense of how to hold onto it in their daily lives.
Pacific NorCal — July 26–August 1 | Miramonte, CA
South Central — July 19–25 | Graford, TX
North Central — July 26–August 1 | Oregon, IL
Mid Atlantic — July 26–August 1 | Jennerstown, PA
South Atlantic — July 20–26 | Dahlonega, GA
Midwest — July 26–August 1 | Nashville, IN
Don't miss your chance to be part of an unforgettable summer experience! For more information and to register, visit myna.org/camps
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MYNA Summer Camp Counselors Needed!
Want to make a real difference this summer?
If you're 19 or older, MYNA is looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our camp counselor team! As a MYNA counselor, you'll have the opportunity to mentor Muslim youth, build lasting friendships, and develop your leadership skills — all while being part of something truly meaningful.
The process is simple: apply online, complete a quick 15-minute video interview, attend a virtual training session, and get ready to show up for the best week of your year. Acceptances roll out 4–6 weeks before camp begins, so don't wait!
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MIFTAAH X MYNA Seminary is Back – We’d Love to Have You Again!
This is your chance to jump back in and continue your journey.
Same meaningful discussions, same close-knit class feel — just 1 night a week to stay connected and keep growing!
Starts July 6th
7–9 PM EST
Live Online Classes
| | The May/June issue is now available! Subscribe today! | |
The Architecture of Hatred
And Who Gets Hurt
By Aslam Abdullah
Image Cred: @palestinianyouthmovement on Instagram
The attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego (ICSD) on May 18 was not an isolated act. Like many hate crimes in modern America, it unfolded within a larger atmosphere shaped by years of inflammatory rhetoric, online radicalization, conspiracy theories, and the normalization of hostility toward religious and racial minorities. While investigators determine the precise motives behind the attack, the broader national context reveals a troubling reality: the United States has entered an era in which hate has become organized, monetized, amplified, and industrialized....
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Environmental Advocacy in the Era of Deregulation
Muslim’s Central Role in Protecting the Earth
By ISNA Green Initiative
May/Jun 26
Black, brown, and Indigenous communities disproportionately breathe the most polluted air, live beside the most toxic industrial sites, and experience the earliest and most severe consequences of climate change despite contributing the least to its causes. This disparity is not accidental. It is the product of systemic injustice,..
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Lessons from the Quran and Sunnah on Mental Health
The Power of Routine
By Batoul Koussan
May/Jun 26
The Quran and Sunnah provide countless lessons that support mental and emotional well-being by encouraging structure, balance, and intentional living. Islam teaches that a believer’s life should be organized around meaningful routines that nurture both the body and the soul. Acts of worship, such as the five daily prayers, naturally structure the day and allow for moments of contemplation and reconnection with God amid the chaos of daily life. These routines promote mindfulness, consistency, and spiritual grounding, all of which sustain mental health...
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Disability Rights Activist On the Courage to be Herself
A Conversation with Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan
By Nora Zaki
May/Jun 26
Image Cred: @cara_yarkhan on Instagram
At 25, Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan started noticing her body acting differently. She fell a lot and did not understand why. Two years earlier, she had started her international career with the United Nations World Food Program in Ecuador followed by an executive role in corporate communications for Dell Technologies in Panama. Working for the UN required a lot of travel which was made difficult due to the physical barriers she had begun to face...
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