Support Muslim Survivors & Allies of Minnesota by Sharing this Petition

Assalaamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatahu Beloved Community,

On Tuesday, 9/5, MN organizations were informed by MAS-MN leadership that they had invited Nouman Ali Khan to speak at the annual MAS-MN convention. For those who do not know, Nouman Ali Khan was publicly accused of spiritual abuse. He never publicly apologized for his behavior. These claims were confirmed by scholars, who shared, “It is with heavy hearts that we confirm that Br. Nouman has committed significant violations of trust, spiritual abuse and unethical behavior.” MAS-MN has chosen to disregard the scholars who shared this statement, and has instead invited a man into our community who has created harm.

Eight organizations pulled their sponsorships immediately, but not without first asking MAS-MN to rescind their invitation to Nouman Ali Khan. MAS-MN refused, and in doing so has shown us that they do not stand with survivors of spiritual abuse, sexual violence, and sexual harassment. They do not care about keeping our sisters safe.

Since MAS-MN has publicly announced their invitation to Nouman Ali Khan, we have been hearing voices of solidarity from both near and far. One of the most well-respected scholars in the nation also canceled his speaking engagement. Countless others have voiced their support, sharing their pride in knowing that Muslim women in Minnesota will not back down when it comes to keeping our community safe.

As a community, we ask that our sisters and brothers look out for each other. And that means speaking up against injustice. What is happening right now is unjust. Nouman Ali Khan does not belong in our community. He does not belong in front of our sisters, and he is not a good example for our brothers. Until he is able to acknowledge the harm he has created and begin to repair the immense damage he has caused, he is not welcome at any podium.

We know that Allah is the Most Merciful, the Divine Judge, and the Most Just. And, we know that He states in Surah an-Nisa, “And what is wrong with you that you fight not in the Cause of Allah, and for those weak, illtreated and oppressed among men, women, and children? whose cry is: “Our Lord! Rescue us from this town whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from You one who will protect, and raise for us from You one who will help.” ” (4:75) We ask Allah to make us amongst those who will protect our sisters and brothers. We ask Allah to keep us amongst those who are willing to help. And we ask Allah to always, always make us amongst those who will stand up against the oppressors. Ameen.

Signed,
Muslim Survivors & Allies of Minnesota

Please consider sharing this petition so spiritual abusers no longer have access to the podium.