Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. Memorial Scholarship 2023
1st Place $500 Scholarship and 2nd Place $250 Scholarship for a College Bound Graduating Senior in 2023
Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. was a founding member of the Crescent Peace Society who passed away in 2006 after spending twenty-seven years of his life serving and supporting our community. In his memory, the Shabbir family founded the Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. Memorial Scholarship through CPS. The scholarship is awarded to a college bound graduating senior who has written the most compelling essay about the importance of peace and understanding in a pluralistic world. The 500-word essay contest is open to any graduating senior from a high school located in the greater Kansas City area.
For more information please download a packet here.
The submission deadline is April 30, 2023. The winners will be announced in May and invited to attend the annual Crescent Peace Society event.
For more information, please contact Mahnaz Shabbir at Mahnaz@shabbiradvisors.com.
Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. was a founding member of the Crescent Peace Society who passed away in 2006 after spending twenty-seven years of his life serving and supporting our community. In his memory, the Shabbir family founded the Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. Memorial Scholarship through CPS. The scholarship is awarded to a college bound graduating senior who has written the most compelling essay about the importance of peace and understanding in a pluralistic world. The 500-word essay contest is open to any graduating senior from a high school located in the greater Kansas City area.
For more information please download a packet here.
The submission deadline is April 30, 2023. The winners will be announced in May and invited to attend the annual Crescent Peace Society event.
For more information, please contact Mahnaz Shabbir at Mahnaz@shabbiradvisors.com.
CPS Stands in Solidarity with Albuquerque Muslim Community, Shia Muslims Everywhere
Published August 10, 2022
The Crescent Peace Society today mourned the victims of a series of shootings in Albuquerque, New Mexico that have left four Muslim men dead. The community continues to work with local law enforcement and the situation continues to develop. Thus far, one suspect, Muhammad Syed, a Sunni Muslim, was arrested in connection with two of the murders and early reports allege he was motivated by anti-Shia bigotry.
“As law enforcement continues to investigate the situation, we at CPS send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who are grieving lost loved ones. We also express solidarity with the Albuquerque Muslim community and want to take this opportunity to support Shia Muslims everywhere who have been saddened by this news during the commemoration of Ashura,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “These senseless murders only reinforce the need for Muslims of all backgrounds to denounce anti-Shia hatred.”
The Crescent Peace Society is comprised of Muslims from Sunni and Shia backgrounds who work together to spread inclusivity within the Muslim community and with people of different faiths. “There are almost two billion Muslims on earth and though we surely do not agree on everything, we can all find common ground in standing together against injustice and hatred and in favor of peace, tolerance and love,” said Latif.
The Crescent Peace Society today mourned the victims of a series of shootings in Albuquerque, New Mexico that have left four Muslim men dead. The community continues to work with local law enforcement and the situation continues to develop. Thus far, one suspect, Muhammad Syed, a Sunni Muslim, was arrested in connection with two of the murders and early reports allege he was motivated by anti-Shia bigotry.
“As law enforcement continues to investigate the situation, we at CPS send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who are grieving lost loved ones. We also express solidarity with the Albuquerque Muslim community and want to take this opportunity to support Shia Muslims everywhere who have been saddened by this news during the commemoration of Ashura,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “These senseless murders only reinforce the need for Muslims of all backgrounds to denounce anti-Shia hatred.”
The Crescent Peace Society is comprised of Muslims from Sunni and Shia backgrounds who work together to spread inclusivity within the Muslim community and with people of different faiths. “There are almost two billion Muslims on earth and though we surely do not agree on everything, we can all find common ground in standing together against injustice and hatred and in favor of peace, tolerance and love,” said Latif.
CPS Thanks Attendees of its 24th
Annual Awards Event
The Crescent Peace Society would like to thank everyone who attended and supported our 24th Annual Eid Celebration & Awards Event. Yusufi Vali, David Muhammad and Dr. Nasreen Talib were wonderful speakers and we are so happy for our Award Winner On Call Halal KC! We will continue to pray for everyone's health this year and hope we can meet in person at some point in 2021!
Interfaith Orgs Condemn anti-Muslim hate speaker invited by Kansas GOP
Published June 17, 2020
The Crescent Peace Society (CPS) and Kansas Interfaith Action (KIFA), today jointly condemned the decision of the Kansas GOP to host an anti-Muslim hate speaker at an event in Dodge City, KS. The theme of the keynote address, titled “Enemies Within,” spreads hatred and incites violence against Muslims living in Kansas.
The speaker invited by organizers is John R. Bennett, Vice President of an organization called “Understanding the Threat.” Bennett has said that Islam is “a cancer in our nation that needs to be cut out” and claimed that there is "[no] difference between moderate and radical Islam." Bennett affirmed his stance, claiming that he had read the Qur'an and "Ninety percent of it is violence. And only 10 percent of it is conciliatory." Understanding the Threat is considered a hate group by the Southern Policy Law Center (SPLC) and the Committee on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
“It is unacceptable for a major political party to treat Muslim Americans, categorically, as a threat,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, Executive Director of KIFA. “This demonization of Muslims not only inspires discrimination against our Muslim brothers and sisters, in our own community it has resulted in bloodshed against people just because they looked like they could be Muslim.”
“We live in a state where White supremacist violence has taken lives in shootings at the Austins Bar & Grill and the Jewish Community Center, and where the FBI recently foiled a plot to bomb Muslims in Garden City. Given that history, it is mind-boggling that the Kansas GOP would give a platform to a speaker to further demonize the victims of such attacks, rather than pointing out the ongoing and real threat of White supremacist violence,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif.
Several high-profile incidents of White supremacist violence in Kansas include:
“The kind of religious and ethnic discrimination on display here is a threat, not only to Muslims, but to all religious and ethnic minorities.” said Rabbi Rieber. “As the saying goes, ‘None of us is free until all of us are free,’ and that very much includes our Muslim friends, neighbors and co-workers.”
“The folks attending this convention would be much better served actually meeting Muslims who live in their community,” said Mr. Latif. “Muslims are your neighbors, coworkers, and fellow sports fans, supporting teams that include the Jayhawks and Shockers. Some even root for K-State.”
The Crescent Peace Society (CPS) and Kansas Interfaith Action (KIFA), today jointly condemned the decision of the Kansas GOP to host an anti-Muslim hate speaker at an event in Dodge City, KS. The theme of the keynote address, titled “Enemies Within,” spreads hatred and incites violence against Muslims living in Kansas.
The speaker invited by organizers is John R. Bennett, Vice President of an organization called “Understanding the Threat.” Bennett has said that Islam is “a cancer in our nation that needs to be cut out” and claimed that there is "[no] difference between moderate and radical Islam." Bennett affirmed his stance, claiming that he had read the Qur'an and "Ninety percent of it is violence. And only 10 percent of it is conciliatory." Understanding the Threat is considered a hate group by the Southern Policy Law Center (SPLC) and the Committee on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
“It is unacceptable for a major political party to treat Muslim Americans, categorically, as a threat,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, Executive Director of KIFA. “This demonization of Muslims not only inspires discrimination against our Muslim brothers and sisters, in our own community it has resulted in bloodshed against people just because they looked like they could be Muslim.”
“We live in a state where White supremacist violence has taken lives in shootings at the Austins Bar & Grill and the Jewish Community Center, and where the FBI recently foiled a plot to bomb Muslims in Garden City. Given that history, it is mind-boggling that the Kansas GOP would give a platform to a speaker to further demonize the victims of such attacks, rather than pointing out the ongoing and real threat of White supremacist violence,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif.
Several high-profile incidents of White supremacist violence in Kansas include:
- This past March, the FBI shot and killed White supremacist Timothy Wilson, who was involved in a plot to bomb a hospital near Kansas City. Wilson came to the attention of the FBI in September 2019 in connection with the case of Jarrett Smith, a Fort Riley, Kansas, soldier arrested then after allegedly plotting acts of violence targeting Democratic lawmakers, a news network, and cellular phone infrastructure.
- Just over a year ago three White men, calling themselves “Crusaders,” were sentenced to twenty-five years in prison for plotting to bomb an apartment complex in Garden City where many Somali Muslim immigrants lived.
- In 2017, a gunman opened fire on two Indian men at Austin’s Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, targeted what he thought were “middle-eastern men” after asking “Is your status legal?”
- In 2014, a White supremacist killed three people in a shooting at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City and Village Shalom, a Jewish retirement community, both located in Overland Park, Kansas.
“The kind of religious and ethnic discrimination on display here is a threat, not only to Muslims, but to all religious and ethnic minorities.” said Rabbi Rieber. “As the saying goes, ‘None of us is free until all of us are free,’ and that very much includes our Muslim friends, neighbors and co-workers.”
“The folks attending this convention would be much better served actually meeting Muslims who live in their community,” said Mr. Latif. “Muslims are your neighbors, coworkers, and fellow sports fans, supporting teams that include the Jayhawks and Shockers. Some even root for K-State.”
Statement on Death of George Floyd and Ongoing Protests
Published May 31, 202
On behalf of our Board and Executive Committee, I want to share our enormous grief and sadness over the death of George Floyd. Mr. Floyd’s murder by police officers was senseless, horrifying and inexcusable. Images of his killing are seared into our memories and consciousness. Our hearts bleed for his family, friends and community.
Our organization would like to take this opportunity to affirm that we believe Black Lives Matter. The sanctity of all life is important, but especially our Black friends, families and community who are in such pain. We stand in solidarity with our Black Muslim brothers and sisters, our Black interfaith partners and Black lives everywhere.
We understand that there is much anger, rage and sadness being expressed at protests locally and across the nation. We call on local police to practice de-escalation and refrain from violence against protesters. We pray that the protests can remain peaceful without destruction and provide catharsis to Black community members. We hope that these gatherings are used as opportunities by non-Black allies to support and listen to Black voices and build relationships that lead us to better future outcomes.
We strongly encourage our non-Black community members to use this time as a period of self-reflection to examine how your actions are affecting our Black brothers and sisters. In the Quran, God says: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, God is more worthy of both. So, follow not personal inclination, lest you be unjust. And if you distort your testimony or refuse to give it, then indeed God is aware of what you do.” Surah An-Nisa, Ayah 135.
We believe that our Islamic values call us to take a strong stance against racism. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), in his final sermon, made clear that “an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a White has no superiority over a Black nor a Black has any superiority over a White except by piety and good action.” We ask God to help us model these Islamic values and ask for forgiveness for our shortcomings.
May God bless the family of George Floyd and grant him peace. May God bless our community, our city, and our country and guide us to peace as well. Ameen.
-- CPS President Ahsan Latif
On behalf of our Board and Executive Committee, I want to share our enormous grief and sadness over the death of George Floyd. Mr. Floyd’s murder by police officers was senseless, horrifying and inexcusable. Images of his killing are seared into our memories and consciousness. Our hearts bleed for his family, friends and community.
Our organization would like to take this opportunity to affirm that we believe Black Lives Matter. The sanctity of all life is important, but especially our Black friends, families and community who are in such pain. We stand in solidarity with our Black Muslim brothers and sisters, our Black interfaith partners and Black lives everywhere.
We understand that there is much anger, rage and sadness being expressed at protests locally and across the nation. We call on local police to practice de-escalation and refrain from violence against protesters. We pray that the protests can remain peaceful without destruction and provide catharsis to Black community members. We hope that these gatherings are used as opportunities by non-Black allies to support and listen to Black voices and build relationships that lead us to better future outcomes.
We strongly encourage our non-Black community members to use this time as a period of self-reflection to examine how your actions are affecting our Black brothers and sisters. In the Quran, God says: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, God is more worthy of both. So, follow not personal inclination, lest you be unjust. And if you distort your testimony or refuse to give it, then indeed God is aware of what you do.” Surah An-Nisa, Ayah 135.
We believe that our Islamic values call us to take a strong stance against racism. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), in his final sermon, made clear that “an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a White has no superiority over a Black nor a Black has any superiority over a White except by piety and good action.” We ask God to help us model these Islamic values and ask for forgiveness for our shortcomings.
May God bless the family of George Floyd and grant him peace. May God bless our community, our city, and our country and guide us to peace as well. Ameen.
-- CPS President Ahsan Latif
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, God is more worthy of both. So, follow not personal inclination, lest you be unjust. And if you distort your testimony or refuse to give it, then indeed God is aware of what you do.”
-- Surah An-Nisa, Ayah 135
CPS Turkey Drive Reaches Goal!
Published November 17, 2019
Thank you for helping us reach our goal of feeding and clothing 500 families by raising money and collecting warm clothing this year for Thanksgiving. The Crescent Peace Society partnered with local interfaith organizations, including the Kansas City Interfaith Youth Alliance and the Faith Always Wins Foundation to support Imam Sulaiman Salaam Jr. and Project Neighborly Needs distribute turkeys, warm clothing and other services to needy families again this year. Thank you to so many of you who joined us in making the Thanksgiving holiday special for so many families again this year.
To see pictures from this last year's distribution event click here.
Thank you for helping us reach our goal of feeding and clothing 500 families by raising money and collecting warm clothing this year for Thanksgiving. The Crescent Peace Society partnered with local interfaith organizations, including the Kansas City Interfaith Youth Alliance and the Faith Always Wins Foundation to support Imam Sulaiman Salaam Jr. and Project Neighborly Needs distribute turkeys, warm clothing and other services to needy families again this year. Thank you to so many of you who joined us in making the Thanksgiving holiday special for so many families again this year.
To see pictures from this last year's distribution event click here.
The Prophet Muhammad (s) said:
“Do not turn away a poor man…even if all you can give is half a date.
If you love the poor and bring them near you…
God will bring you near Him on the Day of Resurrection.”
——— Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1376.
CPS celebrates successful 23rd Annual Banquet
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Published August 25, 2019
The Crescent Peace Society would like to thank everyone who attended and supported last night's 23rd Annual Eid Celebration & Awards Banquet. We thank our awardees, Imam Sulaiman Salaam Jr. and David Muhammad for their thoughtful and moving prayers and, of course, our keynote speaker Councilman Basheer Jones! It was a beautiful event and we are so happy that many of you were able to attend. We can't wait 'til next year!
Check out pictures of the event here.
The Crescent Peace Society would like to thank everyone who attended and supported last night's 23rd Annual Eid Celebration & Awards Banquet. We thank our awardees, Imam Sulaiman Salaam Jr. and David Muhammad for their thoughtful and moving prayers and, of course, our keynote speaker Councilman Basheer Jones! It was a beautiful event and we are so happy that many of you were able to attend. We can't wait 'til next year!
Check out pictures of the event here.
Thank you to our 2019 Award Winners:
Elected Official of the Year - U.S. House Representative Sharice Davids
Peace Award - Imam Jamal Shakur, Aim4Peace
Community Outreach Award - InterUrban Art House
Community Service Award - Dr. Wael S. Mourad, The Medina Clinic
Humanitarian Award - Manjari Srivastava, MUFFIN Fund
Lifetime Achievement Award - Akhtar Chaudry
Special Recognition - Hallmark
Elected Official of the Year - U.S. House Representative Sharice Davids
Peace Award - Imam Jamal Shakur, Aim4Peace
Community Outreach Award - InterUrban Art House
Community Service Award - Dr. Wael S. Mourad, The Medina Clinic
Humanitarian Award - Manjari Srivastava, MUFFIN Fund
Lifetime Achievement Award - Akhtar Chaudry
Special Recognition - Hallmark
CPS Requests Dialogue After Comments at Independence City Council Meeting
Published July 18, 2019
The Crescent Peace Society today requested dialogue with Independence City Councilman Curt Dougherty. In a discussion of city codes at Monday night’s City Council meeting, Councilman Dougherty referred to “Discount smoke shops owned by mostly Middle Easterners who will sell anything out the back door.”
“At face value this comment demonstrates a prejudice against citizens living in Independence who are from the Middle East or who may appear that way to Councilman Dougherty,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “I have reached out to Councilman Dougherty in hopes that he can clarify his statement and to ask him to enter into dialogue with the Muslim community. We believe this is an opportunity for us to learn from one another and stand together against casual xenophobia.”
The City of Independence has a diverse population of people from many different backgrounds and its elected officials are representatives for all of them. In the aftermath of Councilman Dougherty’s comment there have been calls for him to resign by the Council for American Islamic Relations Kansas Chapter. “It is our hope that Councilman Dougherty is open to dialogue and meeting with people from the Middle-East and Muslims so we can give him a more complete idea of who we are,” said Latif. “If the Councilman doubles down or stands by his comment, however, we would support those calls that he step down.”
The Crescent Peace Society hosts Meet a Muslim events, where people from different religions sit down and get to know one another through questions and dialogue. Hundreds of people in the Kansas City area have attended over the past few years. Our next such event is co-hosted by Ten Thousand Villages Overland Park and the InterUrban Art House and will take place on July 28, 2019 from 4-6 p.m. at 7947 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS. More information is available here: http://www.interurbanarthouse.org/calendar/2019/6/28/meet-a-muslim-event-10000-villages
The Crescent Peace Society today requested dialogue with Independence City Councilman Curt Dougherty. In a discussion of city codes at Monday night’s City Council meeting, Councilman Dougherty referred to “Discount smoke shops owned by mostly Middle Easterners who will sell anything out the back door.”
“At face value this comment demonstrates a prejudice against citizens living in Independence who are from the Middle East or who may appear that way to Councilman Dougherty,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “I have reached out to Councilman Dougherty in hopes that he can clarify his statement and to ask him to enter into dialogue with the Muslim community. We believe this is an opportunity for us to learn from one another and stand together against casual xenophobia.”
The City of Independence has a diverse population of people from many different backgrounds and its elected officials are representatives for all of them. In the aftermath of Councilman Dougherty’s comment there have been calls for him to resign by the Council for American Islamic Relations Kansas Chapter. “It is our hope that Councilman Dougherty is open to dialogue and meeting with people from the Middle-East and Muslims so we can give him a more complete idea of who we are,” said Latif. “If the Councilman doubles down or stands by his comment, however, we would support those calls that he step down.”
The Crescent Peace Society hosts Meet a Muslim events, where people from different religions sit down and get to know one another through questions and dialogue. Hundreds of people in the Kansas City area have attended over the past few years. Our next such event is co-hosted by Ten Thousand Villages Overland Park and the InterUrban Art House and will take place on July 28, 2019 from 4-6 p.m. at 7947 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS. More information is available here: http://www.interurbanarthouse.org/calendar/2019/6/28/meet-a-muslim-event-10000-villages
Annual Interfaith Iftar to take place Saturday, May 11
Published March 15, 2019
Each year the Crescent Peace Society hosts an Interfaith Iftar as a way of sharing the spirit of Ramadan and fasting with our friends from other religions and backgrounds. It is an occasion to learn, share and eat together and share the experience of fasting with our friends. We hope you can join us for this year's iftar on May 11, 2019 at 7 p.m. at the Leawood Community center.
Each year the Crescent Peace Society hosts an Interfaith Iftar as a way of sharing the spirit of Ramadan and fasting with our friends from other religions and backgrounds. It is an occasion to learn, share and eat together and share the experience of fasting with our friends. We hope you can join us for this year's iftar on May 11, 2019 at 7 p.m. at the Leawood Community center.
CPS Condemns Bombings in Sri Lanka
Published April 21, 2019
The Crescent Peace Society condemned a series of coordinated bombings targeting churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. The attacks targeted foreign tourists and Easter worshippers celebrating the Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus. At least 207 are dead and hundreds more were injured in the blasts.
“Kansas City area Muslims condemn this horrific attack on our Christian brothers and sisters and so many of us are utterly sick reading the news this morning,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “Although at the time of this writing no group has claimed responsibility, we are still dismayed by this evil act committed by criminals who target Christians in countries where they are a religious minority. We want to be clear that these individuals do not speak for the millions of Muslims in the United States or around the world.
In Islam, the protection of places of worship, specifically Christian places of worship, was pledged by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the Covenant of Muhammad, which commemorated an agreement between him and the Christian monks of Saint Catherine’s Monastery. The document, which granted protection “to the followers of Jesus of Nazarene in the East and West,” including the followings stipulation:
“No one is allowed to plunder these Christians, or destroy or spoil any of their churches, or houses of worship, or take any of the things contained within these houses and bring it to the houses of Islam. And he who takes away anything therefrom, will be one who has corrupted the oath of God, and, in truth, disobeyed His Messenger.”
“Jesus is a figure of enormous importance to all Muslims. His birth to Mary was one of God’s most magnificent miracles. In the Quran, Islam’s revealed text, Jesus is repeatedly referred to as the Messiah of God and one of the closest figures to the Almighty,” said Latif. “These terrorists attempted to sow hatred between our communities by attacking those who celebrate Jesus. But they have only debased themselves and made martyrs of these peaceful worshippers.”
The Crescent Peace Society condemned a series of coordinated bombings targeting churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. The attacks targeted foreign tourists and Easter worshippers celebrating the Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus. At least 207 are dead and hundreds more were injured in the blasts.
“Kansas City area Muslims condemn this horrific attack on our Christian brothers and sisters and so many of us are utterly sick reading the news this morning,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “Although at the time of this writing no group has claimed responsibility, we are still dismayed by this evil act committed by criminals who target Christians in countries where they are a religious minority. We want to be clear that these individuals do not speak for the millions of Muslims in the United States or around the world.
In Islam, the protection of places of worship, specifically Christian places of worship, was pledged by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the Covenant of Muhammad, which commemorated an agreement between him and the Christian monks of Saint Catherine’s Monastery. The document, which granted protection “to the followers of Jesus of Nazarene in the East and West,” including the followings stipulation:
“No one is allowed to plunder these Christians, or destroy or spoil any of their churches, or houses of worship, or take any of the things contained within these houses and bring it to the houses of Islam. And he who takes away anything therefrom, will be one who has corrupted the oath of God, and, in truth, disobeyed His Messenger.”
“Jesus is a figure of enormous importance to all Muslims. His birth to Mary was one of God’s most magnificent miracles. In the Quran, Islam’s revealed text, Jesus is repeatedly referred to as the Messiah of God and one of the closest figures to the Almighty,” said Latif. “These terrorists attempted to sow hatred between our communities by attacking those who celebrate Jesus. But they have only debased themselves and made martyrs of these peaceful worshippers.”
CPS Mourns Victims of Christchurch Mosque Attacks
Published March 15, 2019
The Crescent Peace Society mourns the victims of coordinated mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand which left at least 49 dead and many more injured. The victims were kneeling in prayer during the Friday Jummah prayer services when one of the four suspected attackers opened fire. The suspected terrorists arranged for the shooting to be broadcast live on social media and published a White nationalist manifesto detailing their fractured and hateful worldview.
“Kansas City area Muslims express solidarity with people of Christchuch and New Zealand and join them in their concern and prayers for the innocent victims of this senseless violence,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “This horrific attack of worshippers at houses of God are examples of shocking and cowardly violence perpetrated in an attempt to further divide us.”
In the aftermath of the attack, CPS joins with local Muslim organization in calling for vigilance as Muslims attend Friday Jummah prayers today in mosques around the metro area. Many area mosques have coordinated with local law enforcement already for increased patrols and police presence during the afternoon prayer services today.
“Mosques are community centers for Muslim families in America,” said Latif. “They are often filled with children and parents praying, attending Quranic study groups, or more often than not playing. For many, this attack on the sanctity of our holy spaces shatters the sense of security, solemnity and joy many feel when visiting the mosque.”
Despite the fear and sadness we feel, many of us in the Muslim community have been touched by those reaching out and offering their prayers, help and solidarity in this difficult time. Interfaith organizations, such as Kansas Interfaith Action and the Greater Kansas City Interfaith Council have put out statements, while Jewish organizations including the Jewish Community Relations Board have expressed solidarity with the Muslim community.
“In these times of darkness, I and many other Muslims are moved by the countless people who reach out to us on a personal level,” said Latif. “Though we mourn for those lost today, we appreciate that so many communities stand with us and for us against perpetrators of hate and violence.”
The terrorists suspected of these attacks have been linked to white nationalism and published a manifesto detailing their extreme right-wing views. The manifesto is reportedly a collection of racist and violent memes with references to previous shooters, including the man who attacked the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. (NYTimes: In New Zealand, Signs Point to a Gunman Steeped in Internet Trolling).
“Although many seek to fragment and divide our different faith communities, it is true now more than ever that we should stand united against hatred and extremism, especially the growing threat of White nationalism,” said Latif. “We have seen it locally with the shooting at Austin’s Bar & Grill in Olathe, in the attack on the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, and in the foiled plot against the Somali Muslim community in Garden City. It is only through our solidarity against this ideology of hatred that we can truly preserve the peace and safety of our communities.”
The Crescent Peace Society mourns the victims of coordinated mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand which left at least 49 dead and many more injured. The victims were kneeling in prayer during the Friday Jummah prayer services when one of the four suspected attackers opened fire. The suspected terrorists arranged for the shooting to be broadcast live on social media and published a White nationalist manifesto detailing their fractured and hateful worldview.
“Kansas City area Muslims express solidarity with people of Christchuch and New Zealand and join them in their concern and prayers for the innocent victims of this senseless violence,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “This horrific attack of worshippers at houses of God are examples of shocking and cowardly violence perpetrated in an attempt to further divide us.”
In the aftermath of the attack, CPS joins with local Muslim organization in calling for vigilance as Muslims attend Friday Jummah prayers today in mosques around the metro area. Many area mosques have coordinated with local law enforcement already for increased patrols and police presence during the afternoon prayer services today.
“Mosques are community centers for Muslim families in America,” said Latif. “They are often filled with children and parents praying, attending Quranic study groups, or more often than not playing. For many, this attack on the sanctity of our holy spaces shatters the sense of security, solemnity and joy many feel when visiting the mosque.”
Despite the fear and sadness we feel, many of us in the Muslim community have been touched by those reaching out and offering their prayers, help and solidarity in this difficult time. Interfaith organizations, such as Kansas Interfaith Action and the Greater Kansas City Interfaith Council have put out statements, while Jewish organizations including the Jewish Community Relations Board have expressed solidarity with the Muslim community.
“In these times of darkness, I and many other Muslims are moved by the countless people who reach out to us on a personal level,” said Latif. “Though we mourn for those lost today, we appreciate that so many communities stand with us and for us against perpetrators of hate and violence.”
The terrorists suspected of these attacks have been linked to white nationalism and published a manifesto detailing their extreme right-wing views. The manifesto is reportedly a collection of racist and violent memes with references to previous shooters, including the man who attacked the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. (NYTimes: In New Zealand, Signs Point to a Gunman Steeped in Internet Trolling).
“Although many seek to fragment and divide our different faith communities, it is true now more than ever that we should stand united against hatred and extremism, especially the growing threat of White nationalism,” said Latif. “We have seen it locally with the shooting at Austin’s Bar & Grill in Olathe, in the attack on the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, and in the foiled plot against the Somali Muslim community in Garden City. It is only through our solidarity against this ideology of hatred that we can truly preserve the peace and safety of our communities.”
CPS Expresses Solidarity with Jewish Community After Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting
Published October 28, 2018
The Crescent Peace Society today joined mourners in remembering the victims of the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. The attack left eleven dead and six injured. The suspected shooter, Robert Bowers, allegedly espoused hateful beliefs about Jews.
“Kansas City area Muslims express solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters, in Pittsburgh, as well as locally and around the country,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “This horrific attack on worshipers at a house of God is shocking and cowardly violence perpetrated in an attempt to further divide us.”
The alleged shooter expressed virulently anti-Semitic views on social media prior to the attack, apparently enraged about the Jewish community’s role in aiding the resettlement of immigrants and refugees in the United States. Bowers wrote in one post: “Open you Eyes! It’s the filthy EVIL jews Bringing the Filthy EVIL Muslims into the Country!!” In the aftermath of World War II, the Jewish community in the United States set up many programs and organizations tasked with resettling Holocaust survivors. These institutions, including Jewish Vocational Services locally, have continued serving that mission today by helping refugees and immigrants from around the world resettle in the United States.
“The fates of the Jewish and Muslim communities in this country are intertwined. An attack on one is also an attack on the other,” said Latif. “It is only through solidarity between our communities – uniting against anti-Semitic violence and anti-Islamic bigotry – that we can preserve our place in American society.”
Within twenty-four hours, a fundraising campaign by the American Muslim community raised over $50,000 for the families of the victims of the Pittsburgh attack. Statements expressing solidarity with the Jewish community have been released by local mosques (Islamic Center of Johnson County) and national Islamic organizations (Islamic Society of North America and the Council on American Islamic Relations).
The fact that this attack took place in a synagogue is especially disturbing to Muslims. Places of worship are specifically protected in Islam. Houses of God are considered sacred community spaces. The Quran, Islam’s revealed text, states: “Had not God repelled some people by the might of others, the monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which God's praise is celebrated daily, would have been utterly demolished. God will certainly help those who help His cause.” (The Holy Quran, 22:40)
The Crescent Peace Society today joined mourners in remembering the victims of the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. The attack left eleven dead and six injured. The suspected shooter, Robert Bowers, allegedly espoused hateful beliefs about Jews.
“Kansas City area Muslims express solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters, in Pittsburgh, as well as locally and around the country,” said CPS President Ahsan Latif. “This horrific attack on worshipers at a house of God is shocking and cowardly violence perpetrated in an attempt to further divide us.”
The alleged shooter expressed virulently anti-Semitic views on social media prior to the attack, apparently enraged about the Jewish community’s role in aiding the resettlement of immigrants and refugees in the United States. Bowers wrote in one post: “Open you Eyes! It’s the filthy EVIL jews Bringing the Filthy EVIL Muslims into the Country!!” In the aftermath of World War II, the Jewish community in the United States set up many programs and organizations tasked with resettling Holocaust survivors. These institutions, including Jewish Vocational Services locally, have continued serving that mission today by helping refugees and immigrants from around the world resettle in the United States.
“The fates of the Jewish and Muslim communities in this country are intertwined. An attack on one is also an attack on the other,” said Latif. “It is only through solidarity between our communities – uniting against anti-Semitic violence and anti-Islamic bigotry – that we can preserve our place in American society.”
Within twenty-four hours, a fundraising campaign by the American Muslim community raised over $50,000 for the families of the victims of the Pittsburgh attack. Statements expressing solidarity with the Jewish community have been released by local mosques (Islamic Center of Johnson County) and national Islamic organizations (Islamic Society of North America and the Council on American Islamic Relations).
The fact that this attack took place in a synagogue is especially disturbing to Muslims. Places of worship are specifically protected in Islam. Houses of God are considered sacred community spaces. The Quran, Islam’s revealed text, states: “Had not God repelled some people by the might of others, the monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which God's praise is celebrated daily, would have been utterly demolished. God will certainly help those who help His cause.” (The Holy Quran, 22:40)
CPS Celebrates a Successful 22nd Annual Banquet!
The Crescent Peace Society would like to thank everyone who attended and supported last night's 22nd Annual Eid Celebration & Awards Banquet. We hosted over 300 guests for our biggest and most successful dinner yet! Amal Kassir was an amazing and moving speaker, Imam Sulaiman Salaam Jr., and Aisha Sharif honored the event with sincere and thoughtful prayers and our award winners shared heartfelt moments in their speeches. We'd like to thank all of our volunteers and sponsors for their hard work! We can't wait 'til next year!
To check out pictures from the dinner, check out our picture gallery!
Thank you to our 2018 Award Winners:
Peace Award:
Sunayana Dumala, Forever Welcome
Community Outreach Award:
Congregation Beth Torah
Entrepreneurship Award:
Holly Rich Godfrey, Catalyst Scrubs
Humanitarian Awards:
Fadi Banyalmarjeh & Yasser Nemeh
Business Award:
Lion Petroleum, Inc.
Community Advocacy Award:
Kansas Poor People's Campaign
Syed Farrukh Shabbir, MD Memorial Scholarship Award Winners:
Landon Butler, Mill Valley High School
What We Mean When We Say "God is Great"
“Allahu Akbar” is a beautiful declaration of religious devotion, not a call to terrorism.
Posted July 29, 2016
The act of praising God is a reverential and beautiful act in any religion. Muslims verbalize that praise with the phrase “Allahu Akbar.” Allah is the Arabic word for God. In Arabic speaking countries, Christians also refer to God as Allah, the same God worshiped by Moses and Jesus. Allah is not a deity unique to Muslims, but is simply the Arabic word for the God worshiped by what the Quran refers to as the “People of the Book.” The People of the Book include Jews, Christians and Muslims. Akbar is the Arabic word for “great.” Allahu Akbar simply means “God is Great.”
“Allahu Akbar” is a beautiful declaration of religious devotion, not a call to terrorism.
Muslims repeat the phrase “Allahu Akbar” in their five daily prayers somewhere between 150 to 200 times a day. The Adhan, or call to prayer, begins by reminding Muslims “God is Great” and encourages adherents to rush to prayer to praise His greatness. Many Muslims also use the phrase culturally in place of applause.
Unfortunately, this phrase is often abused by the perpetrators of heinous crimes in the pursuit of terrorism. The use of ”Allahu Akbar” by such criminals is disturbing and painful to the millions of devout Muslims who overwhelmingly reject terrorism. The vast majority of Muslims are left frustrated as they watch these extremists desiccating the beauty of our religion.
This frustration is multiplied when terrorists are taken to be the spokespersons of our religion. Television pundits and radio commentators often use the phrase to further mock earnest believers by claiming “Allahu Akbar” is a call to violence or rage. Many of these commentators and even some prominent politicians consider it fashionable to say “Allahu Akbar” in a derogatory tone, falsely believing that by saying this they demonstrate some deep knowledge of the religion and language. Often they mispronounce and misinterpret its meaning demonstrating their lack of knowledge and ignorance. Such rhetoric only serves to alienate the majority of Muslims.
“Allahu Akbar” is a beautiful declaration of religious devotion, not a call to terrorism. It is the inspiring notion found in all religions to place God above everything. If there is one thing all religions should be able to agree on it is the greatness of the Divine—God is Great!
For more information click here.
Javid Talib lives in Leawood, Kansas and is an Advisory Board Member of the Crescent Peace Society.
The act of praising God is a reverential and beautiful act in any religion. Muslims verbalize that praise with the phrase “Allahu Akbar.” Allah is the Arabic word for God. In Arabic speaking countries, Christians also refer to God as Allah, the same God worshiped by Moses and Jesus. Allah is not a deity unique to Muslims, but is simply the Arabic word for the God worshiped by what the Quran refers to as the “People of the Book.” The People of the Book include Jews, Christians and Muslims. Akbar is the Arabic word for “great.” Allahu Akbar simply means “God is Great.”
“Allahu Akbar” is a beautiful declaration of religious devotion, not a call to terrorism.
Muslims repeat the phrase “Allahu Akbar” in their five daily prayers somewhere between 150 to 200 times a day. The Adhan, or call to prayer, begins by reminding Muslims “God is Great” and encourages adherents to rush to prayer to praise His greatness. Many Muslims also use the phrase culturally in place of applause.
Unfortunately, this phrase is often abused by the perpetrators of heinous crimes in the pursuit of terrorism. The use of ”Allahu Akbar” by such criminals is disturbing and painful to the millions of devout Muslims who overwhelmingly reject terrorism. The vast majority of Muslims are left frustrated as they watch these extremists desiccating the beauty of our religion.
This frustration is multiplied when terrorists are taken to be the spokespersons of our religion. Television pundits and radio commentators often use the phrase to further mock earnest believers by claiming “Allahu Akbar” is a call to violence or rage. Many of these commentators and even some prominent politicians consider it fashionable to say “Allahu Akbar” in a derogatory tone, falsely believing that by saying this they demonstrate some deep knowledge of the religion and language. Often they mispronounce and misinterpret its meaning demonstrating their lack of knowledge and ignorance. Such rhetoric only serves to alienate the majority of Muslims.
“Allahu Akbar” is a beautiful declaration of religious devotion, not a call to terrorism. It is the inspiring notion found in all religions to place God above everything. If there is one thing all religions should be able to agree on it is the greatness of the Divine—God is Great!
For more information click here.
Javid Talib lives in Leawood, Kansas and is an Advisory Board Member of the Crescent Peace Society.
Scholarship InformationSyed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. Memorial Scholarship Deadline
Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. was a founding member of the Crescent Peace Society who passed away in 2006 after spending twenty-seven years of his life serving and supporting our community. In his memory, the Shabbir family founded the Syed Farrukh Shabbir, M.D. Memorial Scholarship through CPS. The scholarship is awarded to a college bound graduating senior who has written the most compelling essay about the importance of peace and understanding in a pluralistic world. The 500-word essay contest is open to any graduating senior from a high school located in the greater Kansas City area. For more information please download a packet here. The submission deadline is April 30, 2023. The winners will be announced in May and invited to attend the annual Crescent Peace Society event. Upcoming EventsCPS 24th Annual Eid Celebration & Awards Event
Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. We invite you to join us on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, as the Crescent Peace Society holds its 24th annual awards event from 7:00pm to 8:30 pm. There will be a Keynote Speech by Keynote Speaker Yusufi Vali, awards recognizing contributions to the interfaith community! You can purchase tickets here. Additional events will be announced soon!
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Press ReleasesCPS Expresses Solidarity with Jewish Community After Attack on Poway Synagogue
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