GAMVP Insights
We are not just victims of a flawed system; we are the architects of a better one.
For a community of over 70,000 members, dozens of mosques, and hundreds of stores and restaurants, the Atlanta Muslim community has always felt minuscule. Our leaders were constantly fighting for basic rights and amenities, our brothers were labeled as backwards, and our sisters were shamed for representing our religion.
The Importance of Identity and Inclusivity in Community Building
Being a Muslim organizer in Georgia feels rewarding. Even though it can be daunting, being civically engaged is extremely important to me, especially as someone who does not fit within the generalized and stereotyped view of being Muslim.
Empowering Young voices in our communities
Growing up in Atlanta, I have always been surrounded by a vibrant and diverse Muslim community, which has profoundly shaped my understanding of justice, equality, and the democratic process. As a canvasser for the Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP), I now have the privilege of contributing to the very community that has given me so much.
Make that connection, have that conversation.
I have been a field organizer with GAMVP since April, but my journey with civic engagement started long, long before that. When I was six years old, I triumphantly announced “When I’m an adult, I want to be the President of the United States.” All my friends dreamt of being firefighters or doctors or scientists, but I wanted to be a public servant. I didn’t realize it then, but that was little me saying “Someday, I want to be in the space of helping people.” That idea is what eventually motivated me to become a youth ambassador with GAMVP last year. I was really interested in learning how even as a young person, I could initiate change in my community.
Reflecting on My Journey with the Georgia Muslim Voter Project
As I approach my six-month mark with Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP), I find myself reflecting on a journey that has been both fulfilling and enlightening. My time here has been an invaluable experience, shaping my understanding of community work and reinforcing my passion for making a tangible difference in the world.
Beyond Stereotypes: Creating our Narratives
In a world where representation matters, I found myself disheartened by the lack of participation and misrepresentation of the Muslim community. Growing up, my family only engaged in presidential elections, unaware of the broader impact of local and state-level races. It was frustrating to see my parents express dissatisfaction with candidates and policies, yet feel powerless to effect change. As a Hijabi girl, I also grappled with the pervasive narratives that misrepresented and misunderstood my identity. However, my journey at Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) offered a beacon of hope and empowerment amidst this disillusionment.
Beyond Stereotypes: Creating our Narratives
In a world where representation matters, I found myself disheartened by the lack of participation and misrepresentation of the Muslim community. Growing up, my family only engaged in presidential elections, unaware of the broader impact of local and state-level races. It was frustrating to see my parents express dissatisfaction with candidates and policies, yet feel powerless to effect change. As a Hijabi girl, I also grappled with the pervasive narratives that misrepresented and misunderstood my identity. However, my journey at Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) offered a beacon of hope and empowerment amidst this disillusionment.
Maximize Your Impact: GOTV with GAMVP This Year!
I'm Xan-Rhea Bilal, the Senior Community Organizer entrusted with overseeing all Voter Registration and Get Out the Vote initiatives at GAMVP. Since 2020, I've dedicated myself to empowering our community through impactful voter engagement efforts. Over the years, myself and other GAMVP staff have encountered feelings of anxiousness and apprehension, hoping to see positive change from our elected leaders, who may be in the interest of retaining power rather than serving their constituents. While that may be the case sometimes, we have come to see positive change from electeds on all levels.
Social Media + Activism: Why Your Reshare Matters
In the current state of the world, things might seem rather bleak, and it might feel as though you, as an individual, have no path or means to effect any meaningful change. However, I can assure you that this is not the case - you have more resources at your disposal than you might think. In the grand scheme of things, social movements are complex entities that require many different roles to function effectively and ensure their long-term success.
More than a Mission: Witnessing Change
At Georgia Muslim Voter Project, I discovered firsthand the transformative power of channeling passion into tangible results. My name is Arsheela Hudda and I serve as an Organizing Intern with Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP). I’ve had an incredible opportunity to be a part of a movement that aims to amplify the voices of Muslim communities all across Georgia. This experience has not only shaped my understanding of civic engagement but has empowered me to contribute to the broader conversation surrounding advocacy and representation.
A Love Letter to Georgia Muslims 💌
My name is Samiah Rahman and I am a senior at Georgia State studying business. I had the pleasure of interning at GAMVP for the majority of 2023. I applied to work at Georgia Muslim Voter Project because my long term goals include attending law school, and I wanted to grow my skill sets in the political field. Working at GAMVP was a great experience and I truly enjoyed being a part of such an amazing community.
INSIGHTS FROM A FIELD ORGANIZER
Growing up in an immigrant community, I've seen how voting can be challenging for some of my friends and family who aren't eligible due to their immigration status. That's what got me interested in civic engagement in the first place. I joined the Georgia Muslim Voter Project as a canvasser to do my part in supporting those who can't vote and to encourage those who can.
INSIGHTS FROM AN ORGANIZER: A REFLECTION ON MUSLIM ADVOCACY DAY
On Thursday March 16th, 2023, Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) hosted Georgia Muslim Advocacy Day, in partnership with the Council on American-Islamic Relations Georgia Chapter (CAIR-GA) and Inner-City Muslim Action Network Atlanta (IMAN Atlanta). This event marked the first of its kind in several years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing together over 150 Georgia Muslims from diverse communities across the state to the Georgia State Capitol building.