American Muslim philanthropy is at a pivotal moment, navigating a period of heightened visibility and complexity. Recent debates, religious guidance, digital fundraising practices, and federal scrutiny of nonprofits have brought new urgency to longstanding questions about how and where Muslims give. American Muslims donate an estimated $4.3 billion every year, and most of it during Ramadan, the most charitable month of the year for Muslims. As many consider where to give zakat and sadaqah, these questions are particularly critical.
Join the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) for a timely discussion examining the current state of American Muslim philanthropy and its future.
Panelists will dive into some of the current conversations on Muslim philanthropy, including research insights and expert perspectives on the ethical, legal, and civic dimensions of giving in the American Muslim context. The webinar will bring together researchers, leaders in philanthropy, and practitioners to answer questions such as: what principles should guide American Muslim giving today? How can American Muslim philanthropy lead in times of distress? And how can American Muslims best serve their communities and nation as they navigate attacks on non-white Americans, minority religious groups, immigrants, and other marginalized populations while staying true to the concerns and challenges facing the broader ummah?
Speakers:
Mohamed Abu Asaker is a PhD Candidate at Indiana University in Philanthropic Leadership
Shireen Zaman brings more than two decades of experience in the philanthropic and nonprofit sector, leading organizational transformation, resource development, and program strategy across a range of institutions. Most recently, she served on the BUILD team at the Ford Foundation, advancing the foundation’s commitment to strengthening resilient, sustainable, and impactful social justice organizations and networks worldwide. She was also a founding member and advisory council member of the Emergent Fund, a pooled fund supporting U.S.-based grassroots organizing and power building in Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities. Today, as a philanthropic and nonprofit consultant, she partners with companies, families, and leaders to translate values-driven vision into clear strategy, strong systems, and lasting impact.
Oussama Mezoui is a passionate nonprofit executive working in the field of international relief and development. His focus this past decade has been on organizational development, operational competence, and program management. Oussama is the founder of Penny Appeal USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian relief and development organization working to alleviate poverty both domestically and overseas. Since launching in July 2016, the organization has successfully raised over five million dollars in support of their programs. He also serves as the board secretary of Our Three Winners Foundation, an organization focused on tackling implicit biases as a means to prevent prejudice against minorities.
Dilnaz Waraich is a philanthropic advocate, community builder, educator, and interfaith leader with more than three decades of experience in relationship building, cultural sensitivity facilitation, spiritual engagement, and civic empowerment. As a Fellow with the National Center for Family Philanthropy she is known for bringing awareness and recognition to multiple causes. She was instrumental in establishing the Community Collaboration Initiative (CCI), Year of Learning, and Muslim Collaborative Prizes; all of which were part of a three-year community-based action research project hosted by Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Dilnaz also serves her Chicago and larger community as a trustee at the Catholic Theological Union, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University (LFSOP), Chicago Public Media, and the Pillars Fund. She also received her certificate in Philanthropic Studies from LFSOP.