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.

SMF Condemns New Orleans Attack, Denounces ISIS, and Calls for Unity Amid Rising Threats

January 2, 2025—The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) strongly condemns the tragic attack in New Orleans that claimed the lives of innocent civilians and injured many more. We grieve alongside the victims’ families and offer our deepest condolences to all those affected.

"This appalling act of violence has no justification, moral or religious," said Rahat Husain, Executive Director of the Shia Muslim Foundation. "The loss of innocent lives is devastating, and our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We share in the nation's grief and outrage, and we stand united against those who seek to spread hatred and terror."

SMF unequivocally denounces ISIS and its ideology of hatred and violence. These extremist groups exploit religion to justify criminal actions, but their beliefs are entirely incompatible with Islam, which teaches peace, compassion, and justice.

As Shia Muslims, who have been targets of terrorism ourselves, we stand in solidarity with all communities affected by violence. We recognize the need for unity and call for increased collaboration between faith groups, law enforcement, and policymakers to combat extremism effectively.

In the wake of this tragedy, SMF has received reports from mosques across the United States about threats, harassment, and hateful messages targeting Muslim communities. These reports highlight a disturbing rise in Islamophobia and misplaced blame following the attack.

"We call on law enforcement agencies to take these threats seriously and protect vulnerable communities," Husain added. "No American should feel unsafe because of their faith, especially in times of grief and fear."

SMF is coordinating with mosques and community leaders to monitor incidents, provide security guidance, and offer resources to help protect congregants. We are also working with interfaith and civic organizations to address misconceptions and promote solidarity.

"We commend law enforcement agencies for their swift response and urge continued vigilance against all forms of extremism," Husain said. "The safety and unity of our nation require collaborative efforts from government, civil society, and faith-based organizations."

SMF remains committed to promoting peace and understanding through education, advocacy, and interfaith partnerships.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Farhana Kassamali

Email: farhana@shiamuslimfoundation.com