299 – Daisy Khan

In Letters of Support by

Greetings of peace,

The Women’s Islamic Initiative in Spirituality and Equality (WISE), a program of the American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA), affirms the importance of strong and collaborative relationships among people of all faith traditions and extends its endorsement of the United Nations’ World Interfaith Harmony Week.

As a social justice, grassroots movement led by Muslim women, WISE recognizes the importance of religion in the daily lives of individuals, as well as the unique role it plays in shaping attitudes and behaviors at the local, regional, and national level. In today’s world, in which many societies consist of people of various faiths and traditions, interfaith respect and understanding is essential for achieving sustained peace and social development.

Misunderstanding and distrust between religious groups, as well as the use of religion to mask underlying causes of conflict, has led to bitter cycles of aggression and hostility. WISE condemns all forms and manifestations of violence, including those between and among religious groups. WISE calls for (re)interpretations of Islamic scripture that are egalitarian and respectful of other faiths.

Just as religion can be used to divide societies, it can also unite people for the common good. WISE and its global network of women has benefited from collaborations with people of various faiths. WISE will continue to engage with its sisters and brothers from other religious traditions in order to further promote the human rights of women, men and children around the world.

ASMA aims to elevate the discourse on Islam and foster environments in which Muslims thrive through interfaith collaboration, youth and women’s empowerment, and arts and cultural exchange. The mission of WISE is to build a cohesive, global movement of Muslim women that will reclaim women’s rights in Islam, enabling them to make dignified choices and fully participate in creating just and flourishing societies.

Most respectfully,

Women’s Islamic Initiative in Spirituality and Equality (WISE) program,
American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA)

Country
United States

Organization
American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA)

Title / Position
Executive Director