Organization of North American Shia Ithna-Ashari Muslim Communities (NA-SIMCO)
Introduction
The Organization of North American Shia Ithna-Ashari Muslim Communities (NA-SIMCO) is an organization established in 1986. It primarily serves the Twelver Khoja Muslim communities in Canada and the United States. A significant portion of the membership consists of immigrants who arrived from East Africa since the 1960s. As of 2002, the total membership comprises eleven communities with approximately five thousand members.
Mission Statement
NA-SIMCO’s mission includes the promotion of the religious, educational, social, and economic uplift of the Shii community.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic Translation: منظمة تجمعات المسلمين الشيعة الإسماعيليين الاثني العشريين في أمريكا الشمالية (Munazzamat Jamaʿat al-Muslimīn al-Shiʿa al-Ismaili al-Ithna‐Ashariyyin fi Amrika al‐Shamaliya)
- Turkish Translation: Kuzey Amerika Şii İthna-Aşari Müslüman Toplulukları Organizasyonu
Historical Background
NA-SIMCO was established to provide a structured support system for Twelver Khoja Muslim communities in North America. Many members are part of immigrant populations who have close roots back to East Africa, having moved to North America in search of better economic and social opportunities.
Structure and Activities
1. Religious Programs: - Organizing religious events during significant Islamic occasions such as Muharram, Eid, and Ramadan. - Offering Islamic educational programs and classes for community members.
2. Educational Initiatives: - Establishing and supporting Islamic schools and educational institutions. - Providing scholarships and financial aid to students.
3. Social Services: - Conducting social support initiatives including healthcare assistance and community development projects.
4. Economic Support: - Facilitating economic empowerment programs such as business networking and investment opportunities.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Twelver Shia in Modern Times: Religious Culture and Political History” by Rainer Brunner and Werner Ende
- “Shi’ism: A Religion of Protest” by Hamid Dabashi
- “Faith and Practice of Islam: Three Thirteenth Century Sufi Texts” by Annemarie Schimmel
Takeaways
- Cultural Integration: NA-SIMCO serves as a vital infrastructure for the integration and support of Twelver Khoja Muslim communities within the broader North American context.
- Holistic Mission: The organization’s mission covers multiple aspects of community life, ensuring the well-being of its members from religious, educational, social, and economic perspectives.
- Historical Roots: Understanding the historical migration patterns from East Africa adds depth to comprehending the communal dynamics within NA-SIMCO.
Conclusion
The Organization of North American Shia Ithna-Ashari Muslim Communities (NA-SIMCO) serves as a foundational entity for the Khoja Twelver Shia communities across Canada and the United States. Its multipronged approach ensures not only the preservation and promotion of religious practices but also the overall improvement of socio-economic conditions for its members. As a significant diasporic institution, NA-SIMCO exemplifies the integration of Islamic principles with contemporary North American socio-cultural frameworks.
