Media with a Heart and a Conscience

16/07/2024

Who do you protect and who do you serve

In the midst of rising tensions and divisive rhetoric, the relationship between the police and the Muslim community in the UK has become increasingly strained. Islamophobia, a pervasive and insidious form of discrimination, has seeped into the very fabric of our society, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and fuelling mistrust. Meanwhile, allegations of police misconduct and racial bias have eroded faith in the justice system, leaving many to wonder: can the police truly be trusted to protect and serve all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity? As the UK grapples with these complex and deeply intertwined issues, it's essential to shine a light on the human experiences, policy failures, and systemic flaws that have led to this crisis of trust. In this thought-provoking exploration, we'll delve into the heart of the problem, confronting the harsh realities of Islamophobia and police accountability in the UK, and seeking a path forward towards a more just and equitable society for all.

15/05/2024

15/05/2024

🇵🇸Nakbah Day “We will return”

05/05/2024

28/03/2024

21/03/2024

If an intersex person, specifically a woman, wishes to revert to Islam as a Muslim woman, there are a few important things to consider:

1. **Inherent Equality**: Islam teaches the inherent equality and worth of all individuals, regardless of their gender, race, or biological characteristics. Islam recognizes that intersex individuals exist, and they are just as deserving of respect, dignity, and equal treatment as any other person.

2. **Acceptance and Inclusion**: It is essential to find a supportive and inclusive community or mosque that embraces diversity and welcomes intersex individuals. While not all communities may be aware of intersex issues, there are inclusive and progressive Muslim communities that strive to create safe spaces for all individuals, including intersex individuals.

3. **Personal Journey**: Reverting to Islam is a personal decision, and it is important to explore and understand the teachings of Islam, engage in self-reflection, and seek knowledge from reputable sources. It can be helpful to consult with supportive scholars or knowledgeable individuals who can provide guidance on Islamic teachings and their application to personal circumstances.

4. **Medical Considerations**: Intersex individuals may face specific medical and ethical considerations related to their physical characteristics. It is important to consult with medical professionals who are knowledgeable about intersex conditions and can provide appropriate guidance and support.

5. **Cultural and Societal Factors**: It is important to recognize that cultural and societal attitudes towards intersex individuals can vary greatly within Muslim communities. Some communities may be more accepting and inclusive, while others may hold more conservative views. It is essential to find a community that aligns with one's personal beliefs and values.

Ultimately, the decision to revert to Islam and navigate the intersection of one's intersex identity and religious beliefs is deeply personal. It is important to seek support from understanding and inclusive individuals and communities who can provide guidance and validate one's experiences as an intersex Muslim woman.

21/03/2024

Islam, like any other religion, is interpreted in various ways by its followers. These interpretations can vary widely based on various factors such as cultural context, personal belief, historical understanding, and scholarly interpretations. Here are a few perspectives on homosexuality within the Islamic community:

1. **Traditional Interpretation**: Many traditional interpretations of Islam view homosexuality as a sin. These interpretations often cite verses from the Qur'an and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) that seem to prohibit same-sex relations, especially the story of the people of Lot.

2. **Reformist Interpretation**: Some Muslim scholars and followers interpret the Qur'an in a more contextual and historical manner, arguing that the prohibitions were specific to the time and place they were revealed and do not necessarily apply to modern contexts. They suggest that the verses that are traditionally interpreted as condemning homosexuality are meant to condemn r**e and exploitation, not consensual same-sex relations.

3. **Human Rights Perspective**: Some Muslims argue for the acceptance of homosexuality based on the principles of justice and compassion in Islam. They believe that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, should be respected and treated with dignity.

4. **Q***r Muslim Perspective**: Q***r Muslims often interpret Islamic texts in a way that validates their identities. They may argue that the Qur'an does not explicitly prohibit homosexuality, or they may focus on the Islamic teachings of love, compassion, and inclusivity to argue for the acceptance of q***r Muslims.

5. **Secular Perspective**: Some Muslims may separate their religious beliefs from their societal or cultural views. They may personally believe in the teachings of Islam but also support secular laws that protect the rights of all individuals, including LGBT+ people.

Remember, these are broad categories and individuals may hold beliefs that don't fit neatly into one category. Also, these interpretations can vary greatly depending on numerous factors including individual beliefs and cultural context.

21/03/2024

The change in social interactions during Ramadan can lead to feelings of isolation and tension in several ways:

1. Change in Daily Routine: During Ramadan, reverts follow a different daily routine which includes fasting from dawn till sunset, increased prayer and reflection, and attending community events like Iftar (breaking of the fast). This change can lead to a decrease in shared activities with non-Muslim friends and family, leading to feelings of isolation.

2. Limited Participation: The restrictions of fasting and the focus on spiritual practices might limit a revert's participation in social activities, especially those revolving around food and drink. This can make them feel isolated from their social circles.

3. Misunderstanding or Lack of Knowledge: Non-Muslim friends and family might not fully understand the significance of Ramadan, leading to potential misunderstandings. For instance, they might perceive the revert's withdrawal from certain activities as disinterest or aloofness.

4. Cognitive and Physical Strain: The physical strain of fasting and the cognitive strain of heightened spiritual focus can make reverts more introspective and less socially outgoing than usual.

5. Disruption in Sleep Patterns: The change in sleep pattern due to late-night prayers (Taraweeh) and pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) can lead to fatigue, potentially affecting social interactions.

6. Difference in Celebration: Reverts might not have the same familial support or shared joy in their observance of Ramadan as their Muslim-born peers, leading to feelings of isolation.

Tension can arise if these changes are not communicated effectively or if there is a lack of understanding and support from non-Muslim friends and family. It's important for reverts to share their experiences and for their loved ones to learn about Ramadan to mitigate feelings of isolation and tension.

21/03/2024

The social isolation experienced by reverts during Ramadan can have a significant impact on their relationships with non-Muslim friends and family in several ways:

1. Misunderstandings: Non-Muslim friends and family may not fully understand the practices and rituals associated with Ramadan, leading to misunderstandings or misconceptions. This could potentially strain relationships.

2. Change in Social Interactions: Reverts often change their daily routines during Ramadan, including their social interactions. This could lead to feelings of isolation and may cause tension in relationships.

3. Emotional Stress: The process of fasting and other spiritual practices can be emotionally taxing, leading to mood swings or heightened sensitivity. This can affect how reverts interact with their non-Muslim friends and family.

4. Conflict of Interests: There may be conflicts of interest, particularly if family events, gatherings or traditions coincide with the fasting hours or other religious observances of Ramadan.

5. Perception Shift: The period of Ramadan can lead to a shift in perception for both the revert and their friends and family. This could either strengthen relationships, with non-Muslim friends and family gaining a deeper understanding and respect for the revert's faith, or it could lead to discomfort and distance if not handled with sensitivity and open communication.

6. Opportunities for Dialogue: Despite the potential challenges, Ramadan can also present opportunities for dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for each other's beliefs and practices.

Effective communication, mutual respect and understanding can help to navigate these challenges and maintain healthy relationships during this time.

21/03/2024

The social isolation experienced by reverts during Ramadan can significantly affect their relationships with non-Muslim friends and family in several ways:

1. Misunderstanding and Miscommunication: Non-Muslim friends and family may not fully understand the significance of Ramadan, which can lead to misunderstandings. They might not comprehend why the revert is fasting, waking up early for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), or abstaining from social events that involve food and drink during daylight hours.

2. Altered Social Dynamics: The revert's social dynamics might change as they might be unable to participate in usual activities like lunch dates, parties, or gatherings that involve food and drink during the day. This could potentially lead to feelings of exclusion or distance in relationships.

3. Conflict of Interest: There might be potential conflicts of interest, especially if family traditions or gatherings clash with the fasting schedule or other Ramadan observances.

4. Emotional Strain: The social isolation might cause emotional strain or stress in relationships. Friends and family might feel rejected or neglected as the revert dedicates more time to prayer, reflection, and religious activities.

5. Perception Shift: On the other hand, this period might also lead to a shift in perception for both parties. Non-Muslim friends and family could develop a new understanding and respect for the revert's commitment to their faith. Similarly, the revert might gain a new perspective on their relationships.

6. Opportunity for Dialogue: Despite the challenges, Ramadan can also serve as an opportunity for dialogue about religious diversity and tolerance. It can be a time to educate non-Muslim friends and family about Islam, fostering greater understanding and empathy.

In dealing with these challenges, open communication, mutual respect, and understanding are key. It's important for the revert to explain the significance of Ramadan and for their non-Muslim friends and family to support their religious observances.

21/03/2024

Embracing Islam and observing Ramadan as a revert in the UK comes with its own unique set of challenges and rewards.

Challenges:
1. Cultural Understanding: Adjusting to a new faith and traditions can be challenging, especially when it goes against the norms of the society in which one lives. This includes not only understanding the religious aspects, but also the cultural nuances that come with the Muslim community.

2. Fasting: Fasting from dawn until sunset can be physically demanding, especially during the longer daylight hours in the UK summer.

3. Isolation: Depending on one's social and family situation, there may be a sense of isolation or lack of understanding from others. This can be particularly difficult during communal times like Ramadan.

4. Learning New Practices: There's a lot to learn when converting to Islam, from prayer rituals to dietary rules, which can be overwhelming.

Rewards:
1. Spiritual Growth: Many reverts find that the discipline and reflection required during Ramadan leads to profound spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of their own relationship with God.

2. Sense of Community: The Muslim community often provides a strong sense of belonging. The shared experiences during Ramadan, including communal prayers and breaking the fast together, can strengthen these bonds.

3. Empathy and Compassion: Fasting during Ramadan is a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by those less fortunate, fostering a sense of empathy and driving charitable actions.

4. Self-Discipline: The fasting and prayer rituals of Ramadan can instill a great sense of self-discipline and patience, traits that can benefit all areas of life.

5. Inner Peace: Despite the challenges, many reverts report finding a sense of inner peace and satisfaction in their commitment to their new faith and the observance of its practices, including Ramadan.

21/03/2024

Embracing Islam and observing Ramadan as a revert in the UK has been a journey filled with both challenges and profound beauty. It's a path less travelled in this part of the world, but the rewards have far outweighed the difficulties.

Each day of fasting, from dawn to sunset, brings a unique sense of tranquillity and spiritual connection that is hard to put into words. It's not just about abstaining from food and drink, but also about purifying one's heart and actions. It's a month of self-discipline, introspection, and a deepened empathy for those less fortunate.

I've found a sense of community in the most unexpected places - from fellow revert Muslims who share similar experiences, to the wider Muslim community that has welcomed me with open arms.

There are moments of struggle, yes. Moments when the long hours of fasting in the UK summer test my endurance. But these moments are outshone by the warmth of Iftar meals shared with friends, the peaceful solitude of Suhoor in the early morning hours, and the deep sense of purpose and belonging.

Experiencing Ramadan as a revert Muslim in the UK has taught me resilience, compassion, and the true meaning of community. It's a journey I wouldn't trade for anything.

To all my fellow reverts, and to everyone embarking on their own spiritual journeys - I see you, I stand with you, and I wish you a blessed Ramadan. 🌙"

I hope this resonates with you and your followers.

21/03/2024

Beyond the mainstream media
Bringing you the truth…

17/03/2024

SOLIDARITY WITH ISHAQ ASLAM, POLITICAL PRISONER

13/03/2024

Please would everybody like and share the new YouTube channel please stay up-to-date with the latest news

Media with a Heart and a Conscience wasayil al'iielam mae alqalbوسائل الإعلام مع القلبMedia with a Heart and a Conscience is a platform dedicated to bringi...

12/03/2024

11/03/2024

To mark the first night of Ramadan, Al Jazeera had named more than 13,000 Palestinian children killed by Israel since the 7th. October, on the walls of their news studio.

11/03/2024

Free Palestine
- Stop killing journalists
- Tell the truth
- End censorship
- Stop the genocide

08/03/2024

Can you all please share and like my new news adventure after leaving my previous employer today…..

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556160700942

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