As the crescent moon ushers in the sacred month of Muharram, WNYMuslims extends heartfelt wishes of a peaceful and blessed Islamic New Year (1447 AH) to all members of our community and the global Ummah. The Islamic New Year, while not traditionally celebrated with festivity, holds deep spiritual significance. It is a time of renewal, reflection, and rededication to the values that bind us as Muslims: faith, compassion, justice, and unity. As we turn the page to a new year, we pray for increased mindfulness in our actions, sincerity in our intentions, and steadfastness in our devotion.

Within the first ten days of Muharram comes the solemn day of Ashura. While this day holds distinct meanings across different Islamic traditions, it universally invites us to reflect on sacrifice, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.

For Muslims all over the world, Ashura is observed through fasting, in remembrance of the day when Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) and the Children of Israel were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny—a powerful story of liberation and divine mercy.

For Shia Muslims, Ashura marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), at the Battle of Karbala. His unwavering stand against oppression remains a timeless source of inspiration for justice, dignity, and moral courage.

We honor both traditions with deep respect, and recognize Ashura as a time to seek strength from our shared history, and to stand together in our commitment to truth and righteousness.
As we welcome the new year, our hearts remain heavy with the suffering of innocent people around the world—in Palestine, Sudan, Yemen, Kashmir, Congo, and other conflict-ridden regions. We raise our hands in prayer:

“O Allah, bring peace and safety to the oppressed, grant justice to the wronged, and guide the hearts of all leaders toward compassion and righteousness. Heal the wounds of war, and unite us as one Ummah in mercy and peace.”
Let this new year be a reminder of our shared humanity and divine responsibility. May it inspire us to amplify the voices of the unheard, support the cause of peace, and live with greater empathy and purpose.

On behalf of WNYMuslims, we wish everyone a spiritually uplifting, safe, and meaningful Islamic New Year.