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IONA Stands in Solidarity with Student Encampment for Palestinian Liberation

  • IONA
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[WARREN, MI] – The Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) proudly announces its unwavering support for the courageous students of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, who have taken a stand for justice and the liberation of the Palestinian people through their inspiring encampment.

On Sunday, May 5th, approximately 20 individuals from the IONA Masjid and Learning Center, joined together in a show of solidarity with the students' encampment at the University of Michigan. Carpooling to the campus, they offered their support to the students who are protesting against the ongoing genocide in Gaza and advocating for a free Palestine.

The student-led encampment, initiated by the TAHRIR Coalition on April 22nd, has drawn inspiration from the call of the Palestinian people for action. Organized in collaboration with the National Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace, the encampment stands as a symbol of resistance against oppression and injustice.

According to the organizers, the demands of the encampment include:
1) A permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
2) An end to military assistance for Israel.
3) University divestment from companies profiting from the war.
4) Amnesty for students and faculty disciplined for protesting.
Imam Elturk and organizer Sr. Farah Khalil of IONA expressed their support directly to the encampment's organizers, offering assistance in the form of food, water, donations, and Imam Elturk's time for teach- ins.

“The students’ encampment represents a beacon of hope and resilience for the Palestinians and all people of conscience,” said Imam Elturk. “It is a symbol of courage and determination. We are indebted to them and deserve our support.”
Imam Elturk emphasized the duty of believers to stand up for justice and righteousness, supporting those who strive for truth and fairness.
The student’s encampment serves as a testament to the power of unity and collective action, as they stand shoulder to shoulder in pursuit of a better future for the Palestinian people.
For more information on IONA’s support for the student encampment, please contact IONA outreach at Detroitoutreach@ionaonline.org.
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IONA’s mission is to transform its members and help transform the surrounding communities to righteous, God-fearing people, who collectively strive for the highest moral standard and constantly seek forgiveness from our Creator to earn His pleasure. We seek His compassion and mercy in this life and in the hereafter. We rejuvenate our soul through internal struggle and spiritual exercise in worship of our creator God. The strength of our belief in God gives us the courage to establish good and forbid evil, thus promoting a system of justice for all mankind.