My name is Equashia Mumeen, and I am reaching out to seek support during a difficult time caused by workplace discrimination against my faith. Which seems to be quite normal for your beliefs to be disregarded for profits. On December 1, 2024, I was working as a cook at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, New York. During my shift, I was asked to work as a cashier. When I asked if I would be required to serve alcohol, I was told “yes.” I explained that I could not serve alcohol because it goes against my beliefs. She gave me a weird look, and when I looked over her shoulder, I saw two sisters from Niqabi Bangladesh working as cashiers. My first thought was fury, thinking they were unaware of their rights. I am so tired of corporations violating Muslims and other faiths. Rather than respecting my religious obligations, I was met with dismissal and made to feel that my beliefs did not matter. As I left the stadium, I slipped on ice, hit my head, and injured my knees, which led to an emergency room visit. Since then, I have been unable to work. My second job will not allow me to return until I receive medical clearance, leaving me with no income to support myself. I am now waiting for workers’ compensation, but the process is slow.

Standing Firm in My Faith I fear Allah swt

This situation is about more than an injury. It highlights the challenges many Muslims and other faiths face in the workplace. I refuse to compromise my deen. I have always tried to stand firm for justice, whether advocating for others or caring for those in need. Alhamdulillah, I have taken in the homeless, fed those who showed up at my door, and provided for children who had no one to care for them.

About Me:

Throughout my life, I have stood up for justice, tackled discrimination, and fought to defend those who could not defend themselves:

I survived domestic violence and became an advocate, co-founding a support group WEHDAH. I marched with Dr. Barber and the NAACP in North Carolina, where we marched for justice and peace.

I worked tirelessly to help gang members leave the streets and find better paths in life. Though my family faced danger—including our home being shot at for four years—we stood firm with Allah’s swt help.

I have opened my doors to the homeless, fed anyone who came to me in need, and cared for children whose parents could not provide for them—often without receiving anything in return.

No matter the challenges I faced, I have always tried to uphold fairness and compassion in every situation. Whether fighting for marginalized voices, advocating for equal rights, or helping those in need, I have dedicated my life as a Muslim to making a difference for others. This is what my faith teaches. Now it is religious discrimination I have filed a complaint with the necessary officials. My help and trust come from Allah swt. Ameen.

Today, I am humbly asking for your support to help me through this hardship. I am seeking to raise $5,000 in sadaqah to cover my medical expenses and living costs as I recover.

How You Can Help

If you are able to contribute, I would be deeply grateful. No amount is too small, and your support will allow me to focus on healing, bismillah. If you cannot give financially, I ask for your duas and that you share my story with others who may be able to help.

May Allah SWT reward you for your kindness, bless your wealth with barakah, and protect you and your loved ones always.

JazakAllahu Khairan for reading my story and for your support.

With love and duas,

Equashia Mumeen