Voices of Change

As-Salamu Alaikum, Dear Minara Family,

In this week’s newsletter, we spotlight a powerful movement unfolding across the globe: pro-Palestinian student protests on university campuses.

These students are not just advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza; they are calling for profound changes that question longstanding policies and practices.

Their actions, courage, and unity inspire many lessons—in standing up for what is right, they remind many of what matters.

Students are Standing for Gaza 🎓

What can we learn from them? 💭

Across various universities, students have risen to demand justice for Palestinians, pushing for policies like permanent cease-fires, ending military assistance, and divestment from companies profiting from conflict.

These demands highlight a broader movement towards accountability and peace, driven by a generation that believes deeply in the power of activism.

👋🏼 Lessons We Learn:

- The Power of Youth❤️: Young people have historically been at the forefront of global change. These protests remind us of the significant impact that passionate, informed youth can have on the world.

- Unity in Action🚀: The widespread nature of these protests shows the strength that lies in unity. This is a profound principle in Islam—coming together for a common purpose, particularly in pursuit of justice.

- Moral Courage🤲🏼: Standing up against injustice, especially on such a controversial topic, requires immense bravery. These students exemplify the Quranic call to stand firm for justice, even if it be against oneself (Quran 4:135).

Maintaining Hope Through Du'a

Harnessing Hope in Times of Crisis

The determination of these students serves as a reminder of the power of hope. In our personal lives, and especially in our prayers, maintaining hope is crucial. During times of crisis, Du'a becomes a beacon of light, guiding us through darkness.

Drawing Strength from Du'a:

• Power of Prayer: In the face of overwhelming challenges, turning to Allah in Du'a reminds us that no problem is too big for Him to handle.

• Sustaining Hope: Every Du'a made with sincerity is an affirmation of hope—an unshakeable belief that with Allah’s help, change is possible.

• Collective Supplication: Just as students have come together for a common cause, we too can unite in our prayers for peace and justice.

Prayer Tip of the Week: Knowing Where to Pray 📍

Maintaining Salah Amidst Advocacy

For those actively participating in protests or supporting the cause, maintaining regular Salah can be challenging. Here’s a practical tip to ensure your prayers remain a priority:

Create a Prayer Space List:

Compile a comprehensive list of potential prayer spaces near your common areas of travel—university prayer rooms, mosques, quiet corners in libraries, halal restaurants with dedicated spaces, or even tranquil spots in parks.

Keep this list on your phone or in a small notebook. Regularly update it as you discover new places.

Sharing this list with friends and fellow activists can also help them maintain their prayers and feel supported in their spiritual practices.

As we observe the dedication of these students and draw lessons from their actions, let us also renew our commitment to justice, unity, and prayer.

May their efforts inspire us to hold firm in our values and to always turn to Allah in hope and supplication.

With prayers for peace and justice,

The Minara Team 🌙