By Swing states have been in the spotlight of this election season for these past few news cycles. But, what many Muslims fail to realize is that our community has the power to dictate the outcome of these purple states.
Only 62% of the Muslim population was certain that they were registered to vote this year, according to Washington Post.
We had record numbers in 2008: 89 percent of American Muslims voted for Barack Obama. But, we can’t stop there. Our work is far from over.
In swing states like Florida, the Muslim population has grown 10 times in size. It’s time that we show our country we can mobilize and we are a community that deserves attention and recognition.
The whole “third party candidate side because neither candidate represents your ideology” or “staying home from the polls because you’re fed up with these dirty campaigns” isn’t going to work. This year is too critical, especially for the Muslim community, to not mobilize and initiate ourselves in this election.
In swing states like Florida, the Muslim population has grown 10 times in size.
In the words of my boi, Barack, “There’s no such thing as a vote that doesn’t matter.”
Whether you like it or not, either Hilary Clinton or Donald Trump will be the next president of the United States. The math has been done; Gary Johnson and Jill Stein just haven’t secured the political backing to reach 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, come November.
And let’s remember something. Maybe you don’t like any of the names you see on the different tickets. But this year, you are voting for more than just Hilary Clinton or Donald Trump.
This year, your vote will cast a side — not just for Republican or Democrat, not just liberal or conservative, or left or right. This election, your vote casts a side for gender equality, incarceration, public education, justice, and human dignity.
Acceptance and celebration of our religion for God’s sake — that’s on the freakin’ ballot.
In times where we need to galvanize the Muslim community, I’m reminded of a certain line from the Qur’an:
“Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity.” –Surah 3, Ayah 104.
This election, your vote casts a side for gender equality, incarceration, public education, justice, and even human dignity.
We know who the right candidate is and we know what is best for our county. So it is our responsibility as Americans and as faithful Muslims to Allah (SWT) to act accordingly on Nov. 8, and rally support every waking moment until then.
So, let’s get to work people.