Building Sustainable Hijrah Communities: Lessons from Shared Experiences All Feeds

In this insightful discussion between Brother Omar Sherrer and Shaykh Zaid Adeeb Ansari, the topic of Hijrah, or migration to Muslim lands, is explored through the lens of sustainability and community-building. Over the years, Brother Omar and Shaykh Zaid have witnessed the challenges and successes of those making Hijrah, especially in the context of the African American Muslim experience. This conversation underscores the importance of building solid community ties, planning with sustainability in mind, and overcoming cultural and historical hurdles to establish lasting roots in a new land.

The Challenge of Building Community

Shaykh Zaid highlights a recurring issue: while Muslims making Hijrah can easily socialize, forming meaningful, lasting connections for the purpose of building something substantial often proves challenging. This is often due to historical baggage and psychological hurdles, which may be rooted in the traumatic past experiences of African Americans and other diasporic communities. Shaykh Zaid observes that other communities, such as Somalis, Russians, and Indonesians, tend to find common ground based on shared cultural norms, which naturally fosters collaboration and mutual support.

For the African American Muslim community, reconnecting with cultural identity and overcoming inherited traumas are essential steps toward building the kind of cooperative spirit that sustains communities. Shaykh Zaid emphasizes that addressing these deeper issues openly within the community could be a first step in overcoming them.

Thinking Long-Term: Planning with the End in Mind

Shaykh Zaid shares an insightful piece of advice he often gives to new students and migrants: “Begin with the end in mind.” For many, Hijrah is treated as a temporary retreat rather than a permanent relocation. This short-term perspective can lead to a lack of investment in housing, resources, and overall stability. Shaykh Zaid emphasizes the need to approach Hijrah with a long-term vision, which includes setting up homes, purchasing land, and ensuring future generations have a secure place to thrive.

Moreover, Shaykh Zaid observes that some immigrants, such as Cambodians and Somalis, have created stability by living together and pooling resources, often sacrificing personal comfort for the collective goal of home ownership. This emphasis on sustainable, intergenerational housing helps ensure the community’s longevity and resilience.

Trust, Resources, and Preparedness

Brother Omar raises a critical point about the challenge of building trust within communities, especially when resources are unevenly distributed. Many brothers have been burned by past experiences, leading to reluctance in investing time, energy, or resources into group projects. Shaykh Zaid suggests a pragmatic approach: identify individuals who may lack the financial or social stability needed to succeed in Hijrah and work with them to develop a solid plan before they migrate.

For those in leadership roles within the Hijrah community, Shaykh Zaid advises establishing a vetting process. By setting criteria for readiness and providing guidance to those who may not yet meet them, the community can better ensure that new members are well-prepared and capable of contributing meaningfully.

Preserving Values: Learning from Historical and Cultural Practices

Drawing from history, Shaykh Zaid reflects on the 1930s and 1940s, a time when African American communities prioritized education, respect, and economic self-sufficiency. He believes that some of these values, which once defined African American culture, could greatly benefit today’s Hijrah communities. Modeling the behavior of successful historical communities, such as by valuing education, preserving dignity, and fostering financial independence, can help instill a sense of identity and purpose among newer generations.

The Somali community in particular is noted for its strong sense of intergenerational connection. By passing down wealth and property within the family, Somalis ensure that resources remain within the community and create a sustainable model for future generations. Similarly, American Muslims could benefit from a renewed focus on intergenerational wealth and stability.

Creating a New Legacy: Next Steps for Hijrah Communities

Shaykh Zaid suggests concrete steps for leaders in Hijrah communities: establishing regular gatherings, workshops, and online forums to discuss challenges, share experiences, and build a collective knowledge base. These meetings would provide a platform for community members to come together, learn from one another, and develop strategies for sustainable living.

A vital part of this journey is self-education. Shaykh Zaid stresses the need to create educational programs that delve into the practicalities of Hijrah and sustainability, highlighting topics such as home ownership, resource pooling, and the importance of maintaining a communal identity.

Conclusion: A Community Built to Last

Building a sustainable Hijrah community requires a foundation of trust, cultural preservation, and a commitment to long-term planning. As Brother Omar and Shaykh Zaid explore, the key lies in recognizing and addressing historical challenges, preparing thoroughly, and working together to establish a new legacy for future generations. By adopting a communal approach and learning from both historical and cultural examples, Hijrah communities can set the stage for a thriving, supportive environment that endures for years to come.