My Open Public Letter to Muslim Students in the USA
Shahinul Khalisdar
Tax Advisor | Business Advisor/ Taxation Expertise/ Enrolled Agent (EA)/Master of Science in Taxation (MST)/ Author
Dear fellow Muslim students in the USA,
I feel compelled to reach out following the recent ICE arrests of another individual involved in the anti-Israel protests at Columbia. This situation has raised significant concerns and demands our attention.
Allow me to introduce myself! I've had the privilege of coordinating Muslim student participation in various Muslim clubs in high school and colleges, representing the Muslim community as a Tri-State Muslim student activist.
One of my challenging moments was leading the historic Muslim protest in New York City in response to the Al-Aqsa Intifada—a significant uprising by Palestinians against the occupation that began in 2000. This period marked a time of intense struggle and strife in the Palestinian territories and Israel, lasting until the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit of 2005, which ultimately brought an end to hostilities.
I've noticed a concerning trend among participants: many were ignoring the chain of command and seeking fame by making off-the-cuff remarks. This has led me to take a firm stance against protests and demonstrations in the USA.
I’ve consistently advised those on F-1 or lottery visas to steer clear of this kind of involvement. Remember, a visa is a privilege, not a right of citizenship. Let's respect that and keep our focus where it truly belongs.
My story is a little different from most. As my mother's son, I came to the USA as part of a family immigration chain. Unlike many, I wasn’t an F-1 visa student. My roots run deep here—my grandmother, uncles, aunts, cousins, and extended family have been proud U.S. citizens for decades. It’s a privilege, not everyone shares, and that unique heritage has shaped my experience in remarkable ways.
I am grateful to be the grandson of a founding member and delegate to the Muslim League in 1906. My father carried on this legacy until his passing on February 29, 1992. In the mid-twentieth century, U.S. President Roosevelt actively sought the support of Muslim nations to counter the threat of the communist Soviet Union, committing to uphold "freedom of religion."
The Muslim League stood firmly behind President Roosevelt’s initiative, and following the creation of Pakistan, our nation willingly aligned itself as an ally of the United States, embracing the same promise of "freedom of religion." While the relationship between Pakistan and the U.S. has faced challenges due to fluctuating political leadership and instability within Pakistan, the foundation of my partnership remains significant and strong.
You should not follow in my footsteps, as it may lead you into serious trouble. I strongly oppose any protests or demonstrations concerning political matters in the USA, as many people do not fully understand the English language, politics, or American culture. Given the escalating deportation situation in the USA, it is crucial that you all exercise extreme caution.
I know many of you may be captivated by the concept of "Freedom of Speech," but it's important to remember that as Muslims on visas, this is a privilege, not a right. Your families and home countries sent you here to gain education and contribute back home, not to engage in political activities.
My advice to you all is to steer clear of any political activism. You are here to study, not to immerse yourselves in politics. This isn't about choosing sides or neglecting fellow Muslims; it's a matter of being cautious to avoid potential repercussions.
The Muslim League voluntarily pledged support to President Roosevelt, and as the grandson and son of a Muslim League leader, I intend to uphold that promise as long as the USA treats us justly.
The post-colonial Muslims are religiously ignorant and divided into thousands of groups and sects; all the Muslim countries are politically unstable, economically mismanaged, and bureaucratically corrupt. It's time to build Muslim countries, not do politics in the USA. Go back to your home country and build your country that is long due.
Allah states, “So ask Ahl Adh-Dhikr, if you know not.” (16:43) I am the grandson of a founding member of the Muslim League and the son of a prominent Pakistan Muslim League leader in the 1960s; I possess a century of political experience in relations between Muslims, the UK, and the USA. This background deserves recognition and respect, and I intend to uphold that legacy.
Muslim League alliance with the USA wasn't forged for personal gain or wealth accumulation. Instead, it was established to combat the atheistic communist ideologies.
?I believe it's time for some to consider leaving the USA and focusing on building up their own countries. Let's channel our energy into creating positive change where it truly matters!
Let’s not allow the sensationalism of the media in the USA to get us humiliated. Rather than dwelling on hindrances, let us concentrate on overcoming obstacles and channel our efforts toward shaping the future of our nation.