To: Boards of Masjids, Weekend Islamic Schools, and Islamic Schools in British Columbia
Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Raheem

As Muslims, we are taught that every believer belongs in the House of Allah and in the community of believers. The Prophet ﷺ welcomed people of all abilities, differences, and backgrounds into the masjid, granting them dignity, compassion, and support.

Today, in British Columbia, many families of children and adults with autism, ADHD, learning differences, and other visible or invisible disabilities face significant barriers when seeking to participate in our masjids, weekend Islamic schools, and full-time Islamic schools. These barriers include:

Lack of awareness and training among teachers, volunteers, and administrators.

No accommodations for sensory, behavioural, or learning needs.

Absence of support staff or volunteers to help children participate.

Environments that unintentionally exclude families, leading to isolation and heartbreak.We, the undersigned, call upon masjid boards, weekend school leadership, and Islamic school administrators in BC to take concrete steps towards inclusion, accessibility, and compassion.

Our Requests:
Disability & Neurodiversity Awareness Training for imams, teachers, volunteers, and staff.

Sensory-friendly and accessible spaces in masjids (quiet rooms, prayer rugs, signage)

Support for weekend Islamic school students through trained volunteers, teaching accommodations, and acceptance of diverse learners.

Inclusive admission and support policies in full-time Islamic schools so no child is unfairly turned away.

Parent consultation committees to guide masjids and schools on best practices.

Partnerships with established organizations (such as MUHSEN) to certify and support our institutions in becoming inclusive.
 
Why This Matters:
Islam is a religion of mercy, compassion, and justice
The Qur’an teaches: “We have certainly honored the children of Adam…” (17:70)
Inclusion allows every Muslim to connect with their faith, belong to their community, and grow spiritually
 
A Parent’s Perspective
As a parent of an autistic, neurodivergent child and an active advocate for the Muslim ND community in British Columbia, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by families like mine. Our group, the Muslim ND Support Group, represents numerous families across BC who share similar struggles. Too often, our children are excluded or misunderstood in spaces that should be centers of faith, belonging, and support.

Research consistently shows that inclusive environments foster empathy, understanding, and stronger social outcomes for all children. Yet, in many of our institutions, neurodivergent children remain isolated and unsupported. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 160 children is on the autism spectrum—highlighting the urgent need for accessible and inclusive practices.

Muslim institutions in BC have a unique opportunity to lead by example, reflecting the values of compassion and community that are at the heart of Islam. By mandating inclusion, we will not only support ND individuals and their families but also enrich the ummah as a whole.

Our Call to Action

In a multicultural province like BC, our masjids and Islamic schools must reflect the diversity of our community. We call upon religious and educational leaders to take immediate steps toward creating inclusive, accessible, and welcoming institutions.

By signing this petition, you affirm your commitment to building inclusive masjids and schools where all Muslims belong—ensuring that no one is left behind.

Sincerely,
Muslim ND Support Group & ND Inclusion Supporters