In recent years, a growing number of Muslims in North America have considered immigrating to Muslim-majority countries, believing these environments might better support their Islamic principles. While it is understandable to fear for one’s family amidst rising Islamophobia and to desire a peaceful life, this perspective overlooks the significant potential  for change that Muslims have at their disposal.

By remaining and organizing, Muslims can work to shape policies that protect their rights and promote social justice for themselves in America and around the globe. This proactive engagement is very crucial not only for their well-being but also for the future of subsequent generations of Muslims everywhere. Fleeing to other countries is merely a temporary escape; the challenges, including Islamophobia, will inevitably follow them, fueled by despotic regimes in their countries of origin. It is in the best interest of Muslims to stay, work hard, organize, and do what is necessary, by supporting their own advocacy groups that can drive a significant impact. This article explores these arguments, highlighting the economic and political realities of migration, the vital role of political engagement in North America, and the pressing need to address Islamophobia and communal welfare.

The Pitfalls of Migration: Economic and Political Realities

Many Muslims who consider migrating do so without fully appreciating the economic and political realities of the countries they wish to move to. For instance, Muslim-majority countries often face significant challenges such as economic instability, political repression, and lack of personal freedoms. In many cases, these countries are governed by regimes that do not necessarily uphold Islamic values of justice, equality, and freedom. Furthermore, these governments may engage in practices that directly contradict the interests of their populations, including the persecution of political dissidents and the imposition of restrictive laws that limit religious freedom and personal rights.

Moreover, the economic situation in many Muslim-majority countries can be dire, with limited job opportunities, substandard education, and lower living standards compared to North America. This can lead to a decline in the quality of human capital and can negatively impact the future prospects of the children of those who migrate.

The Role of Political Engagement in North America

One of the critical arguments for Muslims to remain in North America is the opportunity for political engagement and advocacy. By participating in the democratic process, Muslims can work to shape policies that protect their rights and promote social justice. This involves not only voting but also running for political office, engaging in community activism, and forming alliances with other minority groups to amplify their voices.

The importance of political engagement cannot be overstated. Historical examples demonstrate that communities who actively participate in the political process can secure significant improvements in their social and economic conditions. The African American civil rights movement, for example, achieved monumental changes through persistent advocacy and engagement with the political system.

But to achieve this Muslims have no choice but to disconnect themselves from institutions funded by authoritarian regimes in the Middle East because these regimes often use their financial influence to promote agendas that undermine the principles of justice, equality, and freedom central to Islam. By aligning with such institutions, Muslims risk supporting and legitimizing regimes that committed numerous well documented human rights abuses. Additionally, reliance on these funds can compromise the independence and integrity of community initiatives, creating a conflict of interest that hinders speaking up against injustices. This selective approach is essential to maintain credibility and ensure that efforts are genuinely rooted in Islamic values and not tainted by the agendas of oppressive regimes.

Muslim advocacy groups in the US and Canada, such as the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), and the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), play crucial roles in defending Muslim rights and combating Islamophobia. Although they are not yet as effective, influential or well functioning as the Jewish AIPAC or the Christian FRC, these organizations promote justice and understanding, challenge discriminatory practices, and ensure that Muslim voices are heard in the public sphere. For these groups to become effective, they require substantial financial support from the Muslim community. By donating to these organizations, and being aware of the urgency of their cause, Muslims can help hire the best and brightest professionals to lead efforts in creating  significant impact for their communities.

Addressing Islamophobia: The Battle Must Be Fought in the West

Islamophobia remains a significant challenge in North America, contributing to a sense of insecurity and alienation among Muslims. However, fleeing from these challenges does not address the root causes of Islamophobia. Instead, Muslims need to confront and counteract these prejudices through education, dialogue, and positive representation (see Why Building Mosques Isn’t Enough: The Urgent Need for Intellectual Defense Against Islamophobia).

The battle against Islamophobia must be fought in the West, as it is the battleground where ideologies are shaped and changed. The global influence of the United States means that changing perceptions and policies in the US can have a profound impact worldwide. By supporting advocacy groups and engaging in political processes, Muslim communities can help to dismantle stereotypes and promote a more accurate and positive image of Islam.

The Problem of Self-Centeredness: Beyond Immediate Economic Gains

Many Muslims in North America are focused primarily on their immediate personal and economic well-being, often neglecting the collective welfare of the Muslim community. This self-centered approach emphasizes personal economic stability and a consumerist lifestyle, rather than struggling for the broader cause of Islam.

This mindset is alien to the true principles of Islam, which emphasize justice, equality, and community welfare. Instead of merely pursuing personal luxuries and comforts, Muslims should be investing their resources and efforts into supporting organizations and groups that advocate for positive change and influence the intellectual landscape of the Muslim community. This involves funding educational initiatives, supporting media platforms that portray Islam positively, and contributing to think tanks and advocacy groups that work towards social justice and policy change.

The Importance of Freedom and Responsibility

Freedom is a fundamental value in Islam, encompassing both personal and communal aspects of life. In North America, Muslims have the opportunity to practice their faith freely, pursue education and careers, and express their views without fear of persecution. This freedom is essential for the holistic practice of Islam and for Muslims to contribute effectively to society.

Although it is convenient to move away from the wave of anti-Muslim bigotry in the West, the reality is that communities cannot evade their responsibility by relocating to another country. Islamophobia will inevitably follow them, and immigration is merely a temporary escape. If not addressed, the situation will only worsen, and Muslims may find themselves stripped of freedoms even in their native countries due to the despotic regimes that govern them. Therefore, it is in their best interest to remain, work diligently, organize, and effect the necessary change. The recent hijab ban in Tajikistan, a country with a 90% Muslim population, exemplifies how pervasive and damaging such issues can become, even in Muslim-majority contexts. This highlights the urgency for Muslims to stay and engage in the struggle for their rights.

Rather than seeking to migrate to Muslim-majority countries, Muslims in North America should focus on engaging with their current societies to promote positive change. This involves participating in the political process, addressing Islamophobia, building strong communities, and leveraging the freedoms available to them to practice their faith fully. By doing so, they not only improve their circumstances but also contribute to a more just and equitable world, reflecting the true principles of Islam. Muslims, particularly those in free societies, must take an active role in this advocacy to honor the core values of their faith and ensure a better future for subsequent generations.