The Jaffer Family Foundation (JFF-UGI) has come forward to support the Harvard University’s groundbreaking initiative for producing advanced knowledge on the universal, transnational, and global dimensions of the Shi’a Islamic revival from an interdisciplinary perspective.
Through this initiative the Community will be able to witness an inspiring journey through time and across cultures, that aims to shine a spotlight on the rich school of Ahlul Bait (A’), providing scholarly platforms to dive into its depths and uncover its rich treasures.
This project will reach out to community centers in North America for active engagement and outreach to raise awareness on the Life of Imam Hussain (A’) and Imam Ali (A’), through these research tracks at Harvard University.
Two programs stand as the pillars of this first ever such venture at the nation’s finest institution of higher learning.
Ashura at Harvard: The Life & Legacy of Imam Hussain (A’), – A Testament of Passion and Perseverance.
As part of this trailblazing initiative, JFF -UGI have sponsored a comprehensive research expedition to decode the historic event of Ashura and the inspiring life and legacy of Imam Hussain (A’) In its second year, this research pathway, supported by the initial seed funding from JFF-UGI, has already accomplished a sound study track. It has brought to the fore the culturally rich and diverse practices associated with the mourning of Imam Hussain(as) and unexplored scholarly dimensions.It has hosted numerous enlightening events under the Ashura at Harvard project, as well as a successful Ashura Workshop that attracted over 700 eager participants last Muharram.Looking ahead, the future promises to be even more poignant, with an array of lectures, workshops, reports, and other educational presentations in the pipeline for 2023 and 2024. The next anticipated event is the upcoming Ashura Workshop, scheduled to commence on July 18, 2023, just in time for the start of Muharram.
The Life of Imams: Rediscovering the Iconic life and times of Imam Ali (A’), and His Impact over the Centuries.
This project takes a profound plunge into the biography of Imam Ali (A’), analyzing his far-reaching influence and his enduring legacy across the world. His contributions span religious teachings, Arabic literature, theories of leadership, and concepts of justice, carving an indelible mark on Islamic history. The JFF-UGI’s timely sponsorship has propelled the launch of this ambitious exploration, ensuring comprehensive research, cultural insights, and the promotion of Imam Ali’s (as) life through a digital lecture series, monographs, and online workshops.
Not only restricted to academia, these two initiatives are geared to actively involve the wider Community, inviting everyone to engage and raise their awareness of the teachings of the Ahlul Bait (A’).
The JFF-UGI’s commitment does not end here, they have also pledged support the appointment of a scholar and academic, with expertise on Imam Ali (A’), further bolstering the caliber of this project. This voyage of discovery and understanding promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. You are invited to be a part of this educational voyage to navigate through this ocean of knowledge, bridging gaps, and connecting cultures.
To learn more about the Project on Shi’ism and Global Affairs, visit https://shiism.hds.harvard.edu.
The Africa Federation Secretariat records its appreciation to the Jaffer Family Foundation (JFF-UGI) for their support towards this milestone initiative.
Secretariat
11th July 2023
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