A Muslim July 4th: What Patriotism Looks Like in Action

Richmond, VA — While most Americans mark Independence Day with parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues, 10,000 American Muslims from across the nation will come together in Richmond, Virginia, for a different kind of celebration — one rooted in prayer, reflection and public service.

From July 4-6, 2025, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, one of the oldest Muslim organizations in the country, will host its historic 75th annual Jalsa Salana (annual convention) at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Established in 1948, this is the longest-running annual Muslim gathering in the United States. The convention will be preceded by Jalsa Cares, a day of service throughout the city of Richmond on July 3. 

Why This Story Matters

In a time of deepening social divides, this historic gathering offers a living example of how American Muslims honor their country — not just in word, but in action.

“This is no ordinary gathering,” said Amjad Mahmood Khan, National Secretary of Public Affairs. “It’s a demonstration of how Islam in America is deeply tied to compassion, civic duty and patriotism.”

Attendees will explore how the values of service, justice, humility and loyalty to country are not only compatible with Islam — but central to it.

Convention Highlights

Focused on spiritual renewal, the convention will include speeches on Islam’s teachings of peace, the Prophet Muhammad’s model for Muslims to follow, and Muslim duties to society and themselves. This year’s theme, “The Giving Hand: What the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam Offers America,” emphasizes how faith drives service to others. Sessions throughout the weekend will tackle topics such as:

• Islam and Modern Capitalism — exploring economic justice and ethical equity
• The Giving Hand — understanding how Islam inspires civic service
• The Role of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya — examining spiritual leadership and global Muslim unity 

The event will bring together American Muslims of all backgrounds, alongside faith leaders, civic officials, academics and community members, in a spirit of dialogue and unity. 

Jalsa Cares: A July 3 Day of Service 

The Jalsa Salana will be preceded by Jalsa Cares, now in its third year as a signature day of service. On Thursday, July 3, Muslim volunteers spread throughout the city of Richmond to:

• City clean up
• Restore historic cemeteries
• Distribute food and supplies to those in need 

Visual & Media Opportunities

Members of the media are invited to attend:

• Thursday, July 3:
  • Public event announcing the launch of Jalsa Cares in partnership with city leadership
  • Jalsa Cares service events throughout Richmond
• Friday, July 4:
  • Flag-hoisting opening ceremony
  • Juma (Friday prayer) with translation and access to worship space
• Saturday, July 5:
  • Interfaith luncheon with religious leaders and civic speakers
  • Main guest session with keynote speeches and presentation of the Ahmadiyya Humanitarian Award

The convention offers high visual and human-interest potential, with opportunities for interviews, behind-the-scenes access, and local and national story angles. The Jalsa Salana is fully operated and served by hundreds of volunteers, who can also speak about how they feed and serve 10,000 guests throughout the weekend.

About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community:

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, reformist and fast-growing international movement within Islam. Founded in 1889, the Community spans 213 countries with tens of millions of members. Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, established in 1920, is the oldest American Muslim organization.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is the only Islamic organization to believe that the long- awaited messiah has come in the person of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) of Qadian, India. Ahmad claimed to be the metaphorical second coming of Jesus of Nazareth and the divine guide, whose advent was foretold by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad. The Community believes that God sent Ahmad, like Jesus, to end religious wars, condemn bloodshed and reinstitute morality, justice and peace. Ahmad’s advent has brought about an unprecedented era of Islamic revival and moderation. He divested Muslims of fanatical beliefs and practices by vigorously championing Islam’s true and essential teachings.

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