Shia Leader Sheikh Husham Al-Husainy to Deliver Benediction at Presidential Inauguration

January 13, 2025 – Sheikh Husham Al-Husainy, a prominent Shia Muslim and head of the Karbalaa Islamic Education Center in Dearborn, Michigan, will deliver a benediction at the presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Sheikh Al-Husainy has been an established figure within the Shia Muslim community in the United States for decades. As the leader of the Karbalaa Islamic Education Center, he has addressed key social and religious issues affecting Shia Muslims while also engaging in broader interfaith initiatives. His role at the inauguration reflects the growing visibility and contributions of Shia Muslims to American society.

The presidential inauguration traditionally includes prayers and reflections from leaders of various faiths, representing the nation’s religious and cultural diversity.

The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) is committed to fostering civic engagement, political participation, and public representation of the Shia Muslim community.

By promoting awareness and engagement, SMF aims to empower Shia Muslims in navigating and participating in American society. The foundation’s work underscores the importance of ensuring that all communities, including Shia Muslims, have the opportunity to engage in meaningful ways at local, state, and national levels.

Shia Muslim Foundation Advocates for Detained Scholar at JFK

Stock photo of JFK Airport

Press Release

For Immediate Release

January 8, 2025 – The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) is actively addressing the detention of a prominent Shia scholar from India at JFK Airport. The scholar, who was traveling on a valid visa to participate in events for Muslim Heritage Month in New Jersey, is now facing deportation.

The issue began when a border agent inspected the scholar’s WhatsApp messages upon his arrival. Following this, the agent abruptly canceled the scholar’s visa and ordered his deportation without providing a clear explanation. These actions have raised significant concerns about transparency, fairness, and due process. The scholar is a respected figure known for his work in interfaith dialogue and community engagement.

The Shia Muslim Foundation has reached out to officials at the White House and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to advocate for immediate intervention in this case. We are also engaging with legal experts and advocacy organizations to ensure that his rights are upheld and that this matter is resolved justly.

This situation underscores the importance of clear and equitable immigration enforcement, particularly in cases involving individuals traveling for peaceful and constructive purposes.

The Foundation is committed to providing ongoing updates as we work to secure a fair resolution.

Shia Spotlight Series: Dr. Syra Madad – A Leader in Public Health Preparedness

Dr. Syra Madad stands as a trailblazer in public health and infectious disease preparedness, embodying the resilience and dedication rooted in her Shia Muslim faith. As the Senior Director of the System-wide Special Pathogens Program at NYC Health + Hospitals, Dr. Madad has become a leading voice in biosecurity, pandemic response, and biopreparedness.

A Career Dedicated to Saving Lives

Dr. Madad pursued a path dedicated to safeguarding public health. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and later a master’s in Biotechnology with a concentration in Biodefense and Biosecurity from the University of Maryland. She further solidified her expertise with a Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) in Global Health from Nova Southeastern University.

Dr. Madad’s leadership has been pivotal in preparing for and responding to outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19. Her groundbreaking work was spotlighted in the 2020 Netflix docuseries Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak and the Discovery Channel’s The Vaccine: Conquering COVID.

Recent Achievements and Recognition

In June 2024, Dr. Madad was appointed as the inaugural Chief Biopreparedness Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals. In this role, she leads system-wide efforts to defend against biological threats, creating strategies to mitigate risks and protect public health. Her appointment reflects her unmatched expertise and the trust placed in her ability to lead in times of crisis.

In July 2024, she joined the Board of Directors of Project HOPE, a global health and humanitarian organization. Her insights continue to shape international health policies and preparedness frameworks. Dr. Madad is also a Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, where she focuses on health security and bio-preparedness research.

Faith, Service, and Leadership

Dr. Syra Madad is a proud Shia Muslim whose values of service, justice, and compassion are deeply rooted in her faith. She has openly expressed the importance of her faith in shaping her ethics and professional integrity. Dr. Madad’s commitment to service mirrors the legacy of the Ahlul Bayt (AS), emphasizing care for humanity and standing against injustice, whether in public health or society.

A Role Model for Future Generations

As a Shia Muslim and a leading public health expert, Dr. Syra Madad exemplifies the power of knowledge and faith working hand-in-hand. She has not only contributed to global health security but has also served as a role model for young Muslims, especially women, showing that success in science and leadership can coexist with religious identity and values.

The Shia Muslim Foundation celebrates Dr. Syra Madad for her unwavering commitment to protecting lives and advancing public health. She embodies the spirit of service and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on society and inspiring future generations to lead with purpose and faith.