Civic Engagement & Relations Committee

Civic & Relations Committee

Committee Chair: Asif Malik (Maine Township Trustee)

The Civic Engagement and Relations Committee supports the ICCD community in understanding civic processes, building constructive relationships with public institutions, and participating responsibly in civic life. Our work is rooted in Islamic ethics, community service, and a commitment to unity, dignity, and lawful engagement.


Mission

To educate, empower, and connect the ICCD community with civic resources and public institutions in a manner that is non‑partisan, ethical, and aligned with ICCD’s mission.


Strong Political Neutrality Statement

ICCD is a religious, non‑profit institution.
Therefore, the Civic Engagement and Relations Committee:

  • Does not endorse, support, or oppose any political party, candidate, campaign, or elected official.
  • Does not permit partisan materials, advocacy, or campaigning on ICCD property or through ICCD communication channels.
  • Ensures that all civic programs, events, and communications remain strictly educational and non‑partisan.
  • Requires all committee members to separate personal political views from their ICCD roles at all times.

Any civic activity conducted under ICCD must comply with federal 501(c)(3) regulations, state laws, and ICCD’s internal policies.
Violations of neutrality may result in removal from committee responsibilities.


Core Responsibilities

Community Education

  • Provide workshops and informational sessions on voting, civic rights, public institutions, and how government decisions affect daily life.
  • Offer non‑partisan educational materials that help community members make informed decisions.

Voter Engagement (Strictly Non‑Partisan)

  • Encourage eligible community members to register and participate in elections without influencing their choices.
  • Share official information about voting dates, locations, and procedures.

Information & Resources

  • Provide accurate, timely civic information from trusted, non‑partisan sources.
  • Help community members understand public processes such as school board meetings, city services, and local ordinances.

Relationship Building

  • Maintain respectful, professional relationships with local officials, agencies, and community organizations.
  • Facilitate constructive dialogue that benefits the ICCD community.

Community Feedback

  • Listen to community concerns related to civic matters and communicate them appropriately to ICCD leadership.
  • Ensure feedback is handled with confidentiality, accuracy, and professionalism.

Event Planning

  • Organize civic forums, informational sessions, and community discussions.
  • Ensure all events are neutral, balanced, and free from political campaigning.

Committee Member Expectations

Upholding ICCD Values

  • Conduct all committee work with integrity, respect, and adherence to Islamic principles.

Strict Non‑Partisanship

  • Never use ICCD platforms to promote or oppose political parties, candidates, or ballot measures.
  • Keep personal political opinions separate from committee activities.

Professional Conduct

  • Interact respectfully with community members, guests, and public officials.
  • Maintain a welcoming, inclusive environment for all viewpoints.

Confidentiality

  • Handle sensitive information with discretion and respect.

Reliability

  • Attend meetings consistently, respond promptly, and complete assigned tasks on time.

Compliance

  • Follow all ICCD policies and all applicable laws governing non‑profit civic engagement.

Leadership Responsibilities

Committee Chair

  • Lead meetings, set agendas, and ensure productive, respectful discussions.
  • Oversee annual civic engagement plans and ensure alignment with ICCD leadership.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with external partners and public institutions.
  • Ensure all committee activities remain compliant with neutrality and legal guidelines.

Committee Members

  • Support planning and execution of programs and events.
  • Bring community concerns and ideas to the committee.
  • Assist with outreach and communication efforts.

How We Work

  • Meeting Frequency: Monthly or as needed around key civic dates.
  • Decision-Making: Through consultation (shura), seeking consensus whenever possible.
  • Coordination: All public initiatives and partnerships are reviewed with ICCD leadership.

Get Involved

  • Join the Committee: Submit a brief statement of interest to [contact us].
  • Volunteer: Help with events, workshops, and outreach efforts.
  • Share Ideas: Contact us with suggestions or civic topics you’d like addressed.