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Posted by Awwal
- Mar 06, 2026, 05:49 PMMuslims across the United States are observing the holy month of Ramadan while dealing with fear and uncertainty. Many communities say immigration crackdowns, rising anti-Muslim rhetoric, and growing tensions in the Middle East are affecting their ability to celebrate the month peacefully. Ramadan is usually a time for prayer, charity, and gathering with family and friends, but this year many people say the atmosphere feels heavy.
In the city of Paterson in the state of New Jersey, which has one of the largest Muslim populations in the country, some young Muslims say the usual Ramadan gatherings are becoming smaller. An 18-year-old resident, Haneen Alatiyat, explained that many people are afraid to gather publicly because of immigration raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She said Ramadan is meant to bring people together, but fear is stopping many families from celebrating as they normally would.
The Palestinian community in Paterson has already been dealing with sadness because of the ongoing war in Gaza. Community leader Rania Mustafa said the new tensions involving Iran have added even more worry for families who have relatives in the Middle East. Many residents are grieving loved ones while also trying to support those affected by conflict abroad.
Similar feelings are being experienced in the state of Minnesota, where a large immigration crackdown recently affected many families. Yusuf Abdulle, executive director of the Islamic Association of North America, said Ramadan arrived with mixed emotions. While people feel grateful to be alive and able to observe the holy month, many are also struggling financially and emotionally after the recent enforcement actions.
Because of the economic difficulties, the Abubakar As-Saddique Islamic Center in Minneapolis decided not to host the usual large communal iftar meals this year. Instead, the mosque only provides dates and water for those breaking their fast. Abdulle said the shared meals used to be a beautiful moment where families gathered, ate together, and shared stories, and many people hope those traditions will return in the future.
Across the country, Muslim organizations are also trying to help communities understand their rights during immigration enforcement. Groups like the Muslim Public Affairs Council have created guides to help mosque leaders answer questions from worried worshippers. Leaders say that despite the fear and uncertainty, Muslims are continuing to pray, fast, and support one another, hoping that peace and stability will soon return.
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In the city of Paterson in the state of New Jersey, which has one of the largest Muslim populations in the country, some young Muslims say the usual Ramadan gatherings are becoming smaller. An 18-year-old resident, Haneen Alatiyat, explained that many people are afraid to gather publicly because of immigration raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She said Ramadan is meant to bring people together, but fear is stopping many families from celebrating as they normally would.
The Palestinian community in Paterson has already been dealing with sadness because of the ongoing war in Gaza. Community leader Rania Mustafa said the new tensions involving Iran have added even more worry for families who have relatives in the Middle East. Many residents are grieving loved ones while also trying to support those affected by conflict abroad.
Similar feelings are being experienced in the state of Minnesota, where a large immigration crackdown recently affected many families. Yusuf Abdulle, executive director of the Islamic Association of North America, said Ramadan arrived with mixed emotions. While people feel grateful to be alive and able to observe the holy month, many are also struggling financially and emotionally after the recent enforcement actions.
Because of the economic difficulties, the Abubakar As-Saddique Islamic Center in Minneapolis decided not to host the usual large communal iftar meals this year. Instead, the mosque only provides dates and water for those breaking their fast. Abdulle said the shared meals used to be a beautiful moment where families gathered, ate together, and shared stories, and many people hope those traditions will return in the future.
Across the country, Muslim organizations are also trying to help communities understand their rights during immigration enforcement. Groups like the Muslim Public Affairs Council have created guides to help mosque leaders answer questions from worried worshippers. Leaders say that despite the fear and uncertainty, Muslims are continuing to pray, fast, and support one another, hoping that peace and stability will soon return.
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