Leaders for Collaborative Action in Ohio

Young United Souls for Revolutionary Action (YUSRA) is a grassroots Muslim-led coalition of diverse young leaders across Ohio committed to social change. Combating systemic injustice is a monumental undertaking filled with hardships and challenges.

YUSRA (“ease” in Arabic) is inspired by the Qur’anic verse, "Surely with hardship comes ease" (94:5), reflecting our belief in the power of resilience in the face of difficulty and divine support in the pursuit of justice.

We work at the intersection of faith and activism, providing a unique perspective and approach to contemporary social issues. Our aim is to provide "ease" for the 99% by championing justice, human rights, and social equity through the lens of Islamic values.

YUSRA Organizing exists to ensure the Muslim community is powerful enough to make demands, show up and win the fights that matter, and deliver changes in our communities that lift up all people through Islamic principles of justice and equity.

For too long, Muslims in Ohio have been sidelined in political decision-making and left vulnerable to harmful policies. We face:

  1. Disconnection: Local Muslim organizing efforts are fragmented, with little coordination or shared strategy.

  2. Untapped Potential: Ohio’s Muslim communities are among the fastest-growing in the Midwest, with deep business networks, young talent, and vibrant civic life, yet this potential has not been strategically harnessed.

  3. Exclusion: Political institutions and coalitions disregard Muslim leadership and sideline our community’s interests when convenient or politically expedient

As attacks on Muslim communities and leaders ramp up across the country, Muslims have a choice to make: hide and retreat further to the margins, or speak boldly, alongside our allies to demand the Ohio, and country, we ALL deserve.

Vision

A society where justice, equity, and human rights are universally upheld, and where young leaders are empowered to drive transformative change rooted in universal values. We envision communities that are resilient, inclusive, and proactive, with systems that prioritize the needs and voices of the 99%.

Mission

To inspire, empower, and organize young Muslims to be catalysts for building a world where justice, human rights, and social equity are not just ideals but lived realities.

We believe in the power of diversity and representation. Our leadership reflects the rich tapestry of our community, bringing together individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Our leaders include those from the following communities:

  • Black

  • African

  • Arab

  • South Asian

  • Pacific Islander

Our coalition comprises various organizations and leaders, each contributing their unique perspectives and expertise:

  • Civil Rights Leaders

  • Community Organizers

  • Faith Leaders

  • Student Leaders

  • Educators

Who We Are

Our Power

  • At the forefront of this movement are college students and young organizers, the beating heart of YUSRA. These young leaders are not only passionate, but are also deeply connected to their communities. They understand that real change starts with them, and they are ready to institutionalize their power through organizing work. YUSRA provides them with the platform, training, and support they need to lead the charge for justice, human rights, and social equity.

  • YUSRA's strength lies in its unity and collaboration. By bringing together organizers and networks from across Ohio, YUSRA creates a powerful force that amplifies their collective voice and impact. This collaborative approach ensures that the movement is inclusive, diverse, and representative of the communities it aims to serve. Together, they work on advocacy and policy reform, education and awareness, and youth empowerment, addressing issues like economic inequality, racial justice, and climate change.

  • YUSRA is deeply rooted in the lives of those directly impacted by the issues they tackle. They understand that true change cannot happen without centering the voices and experiences of marginalized communities. This grassroots approach ensures that their efforts are not only effective but also sustainable. By building power within these communities, YUSRA helps them take care of themselves and each other, fostering a culture of mutual support and resilience.

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