SMF Celebrates Appointment of Shia Muslim, Noorain Khan, as National Board President of Girl Scouts

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 22, 2023)—The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the rights and welfare of Shia Muslims, is pleased to congratulate Noorain Fatima Khan on her historic appointment as National Board President of the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA). This significant accomplishment marks Khan as the first Muslim American and millennial leader to hold this prestigious position.

A Shia Muslim herself, Khan's rise to the top of one of the world's largest girl-led organizations is an inspiring reflection of the growing influence and positive impact of Shia Muslims in America. The SMF is immensely proud of Khan's accomplishments and believes that her appointment represents a monumental stride in the path toward a more inclusive and diverse America.

Khan's extensive leadership experience in the philanthropic public and private sectors, including her current role as the director of the Ford Foundation's Office of the President, positions her to lead GSUSA with dedication, strategic vision, and a steadfast commitment to girl empowerment.

SMF Executive Director, Rahat Husain, praised the Girl Scouts for their decision, saying, "Noorain Khan’s appointment as the National Board President of GSUSA underscores the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the potential in every girl, regardless of their faith. As a Shia Muslim, Noorain stands as a role model, not just for Shia girls, but for girls across all backgrounds and faiths."

Khan's leadership will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of girls to confidently embrace their identities, skills, and potential, furthering the mission of GSUSA in building girls of courage, confidence, and character. As a National Gold Award Girl Scout, a lifetime member, and a former troop member, Khan's life has been deeply impacted by the GSUSA, making her uniquely positioned to further the organization’s mission.

The Shia Muslim Foundation celebrates this historic achievement and looks forward to the positive changes Noorain Khan will bring to GSUSA and the broader American society. This exciting announcement serves as a reminder of the crucial role of diverse representation in leadership positions and a testament to the invaluable contributions Shia Muslims are making in the American landscape.

The Shia Muslim Foundation is calling for donations to further support initiatives like these that empower Shia Muslims and promote interfaith understanding. Visit here to make a donation.

About the Shia Muslim Foundation:

Founded in 2020, the Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working to promote the rights and welfare of Shia Muslims around the world. The organization actively engages in civic advocacy on social and political issues, supports those affected by conflict and discrimination, and promotes understanding and cooperation between different faith communities.

###

DC Muharram holds historic Majlis Series

The lectures continue at Center DC, where the history making majlis crowds grow every day.

NJ Mayor Daniel J. Reiman Emphasizes Importance of Imam Hussain's Legacy

(CARTERET, NJ – July 18, 2023) – Carteret Mayor Daniel J. Reiman gave poignant remarks highlighting the significance of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and applauded the local Shia Muslim community for its Stand with Dignity campaign. These remarks were made in anticipation of the peace walk organized by the Shia Muslim Foundation, scheduled for Saturday, July 22, 2023, commemorating Imam Hussain's sacrifice.

Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, is remembered for his courageous stand with 72 supporters against the oppressive rule of Yazid and his 30,000-strong army. Mayor Reiman underscored the importance of these historical events in his address.

"Imam Hussain and his supporters sacrificed their lives rather than submit to religious oppression,” Mayor Reiman said. “Subsequent sermons by the women from Hussain’s caravan condemning the injustices of Yazid led to his disgrace and the end of his reign."

The Mayor emphasized the significance of the commemoration day for Shia Muslims across the world. "Every year on the 10th of Muharram – the first month of the Islamic calendar – Shia Muslims throughout the world observe the day of martyrdom of Imam Hussain,” he continued. “This year, Imam Hussain’s day of martyrdom is observed on July 22, so the Carteret Shia Muslim community will be holding a processional walk as a show of solidarity, truth and justice.”

Mayor Reiman's words reflect his understanding and respect for the Shia Muslim community's tradition and history. We appreciate his contribution in giving the Stand with Dignity campaign a larger platform and voice. The campaign, initiated by the local Shia Muslim community, aims to raise awareness about Imam Hussain's teachings of honor, valor, and dignity.

The Imam Hussain Peace Walk will begin at 4:00 pm from the Carteret Park Pavilion at Carteret Avenue and Louis Street and conclude at Carteret Town Center in front of the Memorial Municipal Building at 61 Cooke Ave. The ceremony at the destination will continue until 8:00 pm.