Economic Self-Sufficiency

As Salaamu Alaikum, Dear Brothers and Sisters! 

At MANA's Shura meeting in Atlanta on February 16, I was thrilled to hear Imam Qasim Khan, MANA's Director of Events and Fund Raising, outline his vision of MANA becoming more economically self-sufficient by investing in income-producing projects and businesses.  He said we need economic self-determination.  I like that.

I was equally impressed by Abu Jamal Teague, MANA's National Director of SHARE™ Centers (social service and advocacy centers which we are establishing in numerous cities).  He said that the primary goal of SHARE Centers is to help people in need by bringing them to a level of self-sufficiency, especially economic self-sufficiency.  SHARE Centers will, therefore, be involved in job training, employment services and eventually establishing businesses that can employ Muslims.

The Islamic approach is "doing for self."  When the Prophet (saws) gave a beggar an ax and advised him on how to make money by cutting wood, he gave us a model of "doing for self."  My desire is to see MANA and SHARE Centers become a promoter and example of economic self-sufficiency.  Throughout the organization we are working to make this a reality.

As always, we appreciate your support.

Your brother in Islam,

Imam Siraj Wahhaj

SHARE Centers: Ready to Launch

Imam Siraj & Dr. Abd al-Hakim Jackson kickoff Detroit 

The first SHARE Center (Services for Human Advancement and Resource Enhancement) is ready to formally launch in Detroit on March 15 at a MANA/SHARE banquet and fundraiser at the Muslim Center in Detroit.  Guest speakers at his auspicious occasion include Imam Siraj Wahhaj, Dr. Abd al-Hakim Jackson, Dr. Ihsan Bagby and Imam Qasim Khan.  Entertainment will be provided by Jameel Syed - a nashid singer.(read more)

Dr. Aneesha Nadir

"Prevention" is Her Middle Name

by Halima Toure'

Her husband says "Prevention" is her middle name.  For Dr. Aneesah Nadir, it represents a guiding light for MANA's Healthy Marriage Initiative. She believes that, along with a strong support system after the wedding, some serious marital problems can be prevented through marriage preparation and counseling before the nikkah. For almost half of her 30 years in the social work profession, Dr. Nadir has been involved in premarital counseling and addressing family and marital problems: practicing them and preparing others to do so. She's also been involved in programs to prevent teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and family violence.  (read more)

MANA's Shura Moves the Agenda Forward 

By Ihsan Bagby

MANA's Majlis ash-Shura along with many of MANA's Task Forces met in Atlanta February 15-16 to chart the future of MANA.  Over 50 MANA leaders spent two days discussing MANA's direction resulting in an ambitious 2008 Action Plan and Budget.(read more) 

No Surprise to US

By Mika'il DeVeaux

Co-Founder Citizens Against Recidivism, Inc.
Member MANA Re-Entry Resource and Advisory Committee
 
The Pew Report lamenting the number of people currently incarcerated in the United States (One in 100: Behind Bars in America 2008)  was a surprise to many, but should have come to no surprise to people of color. (read more)