“Hope is an act of resistance”

OIA’s Advocacy Director Demba Babaly Ndiath attended an Iftar the Ohio Statehouse yesterday, hosted by Rep. Munira Abdullahi. He said, "It was a powerful moment of community gathering, reflection, and shared humanity. Hearing the Adhan echo in the people’s house, and praying Maghrib behind Imam Ayman Soliman during this blessed month of Ramadan, brought deep hope to my heart — especially at a time of profound despair and fear within our immigrant communities.”

He continued: “What moved me even more was seeing Qur’anic verse 3:139 displayed on the tables where we broke our fast together: ‘Do not lose hope, nor be afraid; you will be triumphant.’ In a climate where many immigrants live with uncertainty, detention, and the constant threat of separation, this reminder was not only spiritual — it was political, moral, and deeply human. It affirmed that faith, solidarity, and collective care remain sources of strength. Moments like this remind us that belonging is possible, dignity is non-negotiable, and hope is an act of resistance.”

View photos from the event below.