A special event in October 2024 for promoting Islamic knowledge and way-of-life across USA and Canada.
This year’s Halaqah Across America (HAA’24) program was successfully performed on October 11-28, 2024 in collaboration with Corps Dai Dompet Dhuafa (Cordofa) and Sakinah Finance. In this program, led by Dr. Murniati “Madam Ani” Mukhlisin from Sakinah Finance, participants from 8+ localities were actively engaged in deep-dive sessions regarding Islamic finance, wills, and trust.
As Madam Ani remarked, “Throughout this program, we conducted numerous study sessions, engaging directly with over 450 participants eager to integrate Islamic principles into their lives.” We would like to thank our local partners—Masjid At-Thohir Los Angeles, Pengajian Las Vegas, Masyarakat Islam Indonesia in Toronto (MIIT), the Indonesian Consulate General in Toronto, Pengajian Michigan, Indonesian Muslim Association in America (IMAAM) Center, Community Faith Support Organization (COMFASION), McLean Islamic Center (MIC), and Pengajian Gaithersburg MD—for their generous and endless support. Thanks to your support, we could share practical guidance that helps our brothers and sisters navigating their daily lives in USA and Canada.
A Journey of Engagement and Insight
Assisted by Islamic banking expert and Sakinah Finance alumnus Nina Marliani, Madam Ani led a series of insightful study sessions across America, covering topics of Islamic finance, spiritual growth, and Sharia-compliant practices. These includes:
- Two sessions at Masjid At-Thohir in Los Angeles, CA
- Two sessions in Las Vegas, NV
- Two sessions in Toronto, Canada
- Two sessions in Sterling Heights and Farmington Hills, MI
- Four sessions in Silver Springs and Gaithersburg, MD
- Two sessions in Falls Church and McLean, VA.
Each one of them was met with enthusiasm, as attendees connected with Madam Ani’s warm and inclusive teaching style, bringing them closer to understanding the practical application of Islamic principles in their daily lives.
Strategic Visits: Strengthening Ties and Sharing Expertise
Beyond community sessions, Madam Ani’s tour included strategic visits that focused on building professional connections with influential Muslim and academic leaders across North America. Notable meetings included:
- Discussions with prominent Indonesian IT experts in Silicon Valley, CA
- Meeting with the Indonesian Consul General in Toronto
- Consultation with the Imam and officers of Sayeda Khadija Centre in Toronto
- Dialogue with the executive management of Sterling Management Group and the leaders of International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT).
- Engagements with Indonesian Muslim Association in America (IMAAM) in Maryland
- Insightful exchange with the Executive Director of the World Bank in Washington, DC
These visits served as a valuable platform for exploring the potential of Islamic finance, developing new perspectives on Sharia-compliant practices, and promoting mutual support for Muslim communities in America.
Personal Consultations and a Life-Changing Moment
In addition to public sessions, Madam Ani provided personalized guidance through 39 individual consultations, covering critical topics such as zakat, inheritance, debt, and waqf, offered both in person and online. These sessions underscored the enthusiasm within American Muslim communities to incorporate Islamic values into daily life and address unique financial and social needs.
A particularly moving moment took place in Toronto, where Madam Ani led the Buttner family in reciting the shahadah. This event saw Mr. Buttner, a Canadian, along with his Indonesian wife and their daughter, embrace Islam in a deeply touching ceremony, symbolizing the unity and transformative power of Islam that transcends cultures and national boundaries.
Building Lasting Impact Through Knowledge and Empowerment
HAA’24 signifies the strong desire among Muslims in America for access to Islamic financial expertise, spiritual guidance, and educational support. Dompet Dhuafa USA commitment to these communities is paving the way for Muslims to strengthen their faith, achieve self-reliance, and build community solidarity. Madam Ani’s journey, marked by professional collaboration, personal consultation, and life-changing events, is a testament to the importance of knowledge-sharing, unity, and support within the global Muslim community.
This program, with support from various mosques, study groups, and institutions, is not only deepening Islamic understanding but also creating meaningful connections between communities in the United States, Canada, and beyond. Through every session, Dompet Dhuafa USA remains dedicated to inspiring, uplifting, and providing valuable guidance for those seeking a life in alignment with Islamic values in America.
We look forward to future opportunities that could serve your interest(s), so stay tuned for the next HAA and other events. Until then, may peace and blessings be with you.